What does 真剣 mean?
真剣 is a Japanese noun meaning “seriousness, earnestness” in English. It can also be translated as “real sword (as opposed to a wooden practice weapon)” depending on context. It is written as 真剣 in kanji, しんけん in hiragana, and shinken in romaji. This word is part of JLPT N3 vocabulary.
Example sentences
ジョージは勉強に真剣でない。
George is not serious about his study.
「親父これって・・・真剣？」「当たり前だろう、決闘なのだからな」
"Dad, this a real sword?" "Of course, it is a duel after all."