Japanese · Emotions & Feelings
感動する
kandou suru
To be deeply moved / To be touched
Intermediatephrase
Definition
To experience a powerful emotional reaction to something beautiful, meaningful, or unexpectedly generous. 感動 (kandou) literally means "feeling that moves".
Example
その映画を見て感動して泣いてしまいました。
I was so moved by that movie that I ended up crying.
Etymology
感動する (kandou suru) is composed of 感 (kan), meaning 'to feel,' and 動 (dou), meaning 'to move.' This fusion captures the essence of emotional responses, evolving to express being touched or deeply moved.
How & Where It’s Used
感動する is frequently used in emotional contexts, both in casual conversation and in written works. It is appropriate in both formal and informal registers, understood throughout Japan.