Exploring the Unique Japanese Word Yoyuu 余裕: An Excess of Nuance

This Japanese word can help convey the idea of feeling at ease with our achievements.

Photo by Masaaki Komori on UnsplashYoyuu 余裕, abstract noun.

Yoyuu 余裕, abstract noun

Pronounced: “yoh-yoo”

Yoyuu 余裕 is an interesting word to explore in English, as it has no direct translation.

The word’s etymology combines yo — meaning additional, extra — and yuu — meaning ample, abundance, ease.

I read a brief breakdown of the possible meaning of this word in a Kinfolk magazine which prompted me to explore it more. The coverage I initially read didn’t quite ring true the more I searched and read about it, but it’s still a unique and intriguing word worth pondering.

A Momentary Pause

The Kinfolk write up claimed the word as the “presence of a momentary pause that allows us to recharge and prepare for life’s next big event.” The writer goes on to clarify:

“It’s an imagined space you take yourself to arrange mental (or physical) clutter, allowing yourself to be poised and ready to accommodate the other necessities of the day; Yoyuu conveys the accompanying feeling of calmness when you’re mentally prepared for challenge and change.”