word
Japanese
ikigai
ee-kee-GUY
ˌiːkiˈɡaɪListen
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Syllable breakdown
ikigai
Sounds like
Say 'ee-kee-GUY'.
Dictionary meaning
A Japanese concept meaning 'reason for being'; the intersection of what you love, what you are good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for.
History and origin
Japanese — 'iki' (life) + 'gai' (worth, benefit).
Examples
- The Okinawan practice of ikigai is often cited as a key factor in their exceptional longevity.
Common mispronunciations
IH-kih-guyee-KAY-guy
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