Translation

purpose in life / reason for being / worthwhile life

Meaning

A Japanese concept that refers to having a sense of purpose and fulfillment in life. It's often described as the reason you wake up in the morning, encompassing what you love, what you are good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for. It's not necessarily about grand achievements, but finding joy and meaning in everyday activities and contributions.

Examples

• 彼は自分の仕事に生き甲斐を見出している。
  He finds his ikigai in his work.
• 私の生き甲斐は、人々の笑顔を見ることです。
  My ikigai is seeing people's smiles.