核心
The core, heart, or essence of a problem or matter. It refers to the most important or central part.
Examples
3 of 5話の核心がよくわからない。
I don't really understand the core of the story.
核心を突く質問に、相手は言葉を詰まらせた。
The opponent was at a loss for words at the question that hit the core.
核心を言っちゃうと、やる気がないんだよね。
To get to the core of it, I just don't have the motivation.
Word Family
Memory Tip
Kaku-shin: 'Kaku' (nucleus/core) + 'Shin' (heart). The heart of the nucleus.
Quick Quiz
議論が長引いたが、ようやく問題の___にたどり着いた。
Correct!
The correct answer is: 核心
Examples
話の核心がよくわからない。
everydayI don't really understand the core of the story.
核心を突く質問に、相手は言葉を詰まらせた。
formalThe opponent was at a loss for words at the question that hit the core.
核心を言っちゃうと、やる気がないんだよね。
informalTo get to the core of it, I just don't have the motivation.
本研究の核心は、この新しい理論にある。
academicThe core of this research lies in this new theory.
ビジネスの核心を見失ってはいけない。
businessYou must not lose sight of the core of the business.
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
核心技術
core technology
核心的利益
core interests
Often Confused With
中心 is physical or general center; 核心 is specifically the abstract 'essence' or 'most vital point'.
Usage Notes
Use '核心を突く' when someone makes a very sharp, accurate point in an argument.
Common Mistakes
Learners often use '中心' for everything, but '核心' sounds more intellectual and precise.
Memory Tip
Kaku-shin: 'Kaku' (nucleus/core) + 'Shin' (heart). The heart of the nucleus.
Word Origin
From 'Kaku' (kernel/pit) and 'Shin' (heart/mind).
Grammar Patterns
Quick Quiz
議論が長引いたが、ようやく問題の___にたどり着いた。
Correct!
The correct answer is: 核心
Related Vocabulary
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More Academic words
提示
B1The act of showing or offering something for consideration or inspection; presentation.
定義
B2A statement of the exact meaning of a word, especially in a dictionary, or the act of making the scope of a concept clear.
誇張
B2A statement that represents something as better or worse than it really is. To overstate facts, feelings, or sizes beyond the truth.
正確
B1Free from error; conforming to fact or truth; precise.
効率的
B1Achieving maximum productivity with minimum wasted effort or expense.
論調
B2The tone, trend, or general drift of an argument or editorial. It refers to the overall stance taken by a writer or a newspaper.
実体
B2The true nature, essence, or substance of something as opposed to its appearance. It can also refer to a physical entity or a real existence.
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