Word
Kana: れいせい Romaji: reisei Level: N3

冷静

Meaning in English

calm, composed, cool-headed

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What it means

What does 冷静 mean? It denotes a state of calm, self-control, and clear judgment, especially under pressure. It refers to staying level-headed and making deliberate, rational decisions rather than acting on impulse.

Main meanings

  • 1) calmness and composure in demeanor
  • 2) ability to think clearly and act rationally under pressure
  • 3) a state or quality of being level-headed, often in challenging situations

How to use it

  • Formal usage in writing and speeches: 冷静さを保つ, 冷静な判断を下す
  • Casual speech: 冷静だ, 冷静になる
  • Academic or journalistic style: 冷静沈着 describes a person who remains calm and collected under stress

Variants and close terms

  • 沈着 (ちんちゃく) — calm, composure
  • 平静 (へいせい) — calmness
  • 冷静沈着 (れいせいちんちゃく) — cool-headedness
  • 動揺 (どうよう) — agitation (antonym)
  • 焦燥 (しょうそう) — impatience/restlessness (antonym)

Composition

  • 冷: cold, ice; conveys low temperature or cooling effect
  • 静: quiet, calm; silence, stillness
  • Combined meaning: the mental state of staying cool and not being disturbed by emotions; to maintain composure and make deliberate decisions

Word class

na-adjective (形容動詞)

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