VocabJLPT N3
duty
Nounの-Adjective

Definitions

  1. 1. duty
  2. 2. sense of duty
  3. 3. in-law
  4. 4. Giri (Japanese)
This noun refers to a sense of social duty, obligation, or moral debt toward others based on one's relationships and social bonds. It is a deeply cultural concept in Japan, where fulfilling these obligations—such as giving return gifts—is considered an important social responsibility.

Example sentences

Sentence 1

She said "I've done my duty" and got up from her seat.

Sentence 2

Sometimes I want to ask myself, "What does duty even mean?"

Sentence 3

Don't you think it's only right to get in touch first?

Sentence 4

If it's just going through the motions anyway, you don't have to keep it up.

Sentence 5

Even if it's small, returning the favor is the right thing to do.