命 (Inochi) is a Japanese noun meaning “life, life force, lifetime, lifespan”.
Meanings
- nounlife; life forcesometimes written as 生命
- nounlifetime; lifespan
- nounmost important thing; foundation; core
- nounpaired tattoos of the "life" kanji on the upper arms of a man and woman (indicating unwavering love)
- nounfate; destiny; karma
Examples
命あっての物種。
While there is life, there is hope.
彼の命が危ない。
His life is in danger.
彼の命が心配だ。
I'm afraid for his life.
Sentences from Tatoeba (CC BY 2.0 FR).