The concept of "compassion" in Japanese is expressed primarily as 慈悲 (jihi), which combines 慈 (ji), meaning "benevolence" or "kindness," with 悲 (hi), meaning "sorrow" or "sympathy." Together, 慈悲 conveys the idea of deeply caring for others and sharing their suffering with a sense of kindness and empathy. It is often used in Buddhist contexts to describe the compassion of enlightened beings or the ideal of selfless care for all sentient beings. In everyday usage, words like 思いやり (omoiyari) are more common. 思いやり emphasizes thoughtfulness and consideration for others, often reflecting the interpersonal compassion shown in daily life. For a more casual or modern expression, 優しさ (yasashisa), meaning "gentleness" or "kindness," is used to denote a caring and compassionate attitude. These terms vary in formality and depth, with 慈悲 being more profound and spiritual, and 思いやり or 優しさ reflecting practical, everyday kindness. Each captures different shades of what it means to express and embody compassion in Japanese culture.