Entry
きっちり
kicchiri
Describes a state where something is exact, fits perfectly without looseness, or is done thoroughly and properly.
Meaning
Quick Meaning
Kitchiri is a versatile mimetic word used to describe precision. It applies to temporal punctuality (on the dot), physical measurements (fitting perfectly), physical tightness (closing a lid securely), and the methodical way a person handles tasks or work.
- Precision in time and numbers.
- Physical tightness or a perfect fit.
- Methodical and disciplined behavior.
Sense Map
Time & Measurement
Used when a specific time or amount is met exactly without any deviation.
Exactly at 3 o'clock
Physical Fit
Describes objects that close tightly or clothes that fit the body perfectly with no gaps.
Closing a lid tightly
Usage Note
How to Use
きっちり（と）＋動詞
Functions as an adverb to modify verbs, showing that an action is performed precisely or tightly.
きっちりする
Used as a verb to describe a state of being orderly, exact, or well-fitted.
きっちりした＋名詞
Used to describe nouns, often referring to disciplined people or well-executed work.
How to Use
Common Phrases
きっちり閉める
To close tightly
きっちり三時
Exactly 3 o'clock
きっちり分ける
To divide evenly/exactly
きっちりした仕事
Precise/proper work
Nuance
Context Nuance
| Common Contexts | Nuance | Usage Note |
|---|---|---|
| Financials | Neutral | Paying the exact amount down to the last yen. |
| Social Gatherings | Positive | Being punctual shows respect for others' time. |
Similar Words
Comparison Table
| Similar Words | When to Use | Not the Same as | Mini Example |
|---|---|---|---|
きちんと きちんと / similar | Focuses on orderliness, tidiness, or social propriety. | Kitchiri focuses more on the physical tightness or mathematical exactness. | Properly cleaning a room. |
きっかり きっかり / similar | Strictly used for numbers, quantities, and time. | Kitchiri can also describe physical fit and personality, which kikkari cannot. | Exactly ten people. |
Usage Note
Common Mistakes
Using it for 'approximately'.
Kitchiri means exactly; use 'daitai' for approximately.
Mixing it up with 'hakkiri'.
Hakkiri means 'clearly' (vision/speech), while kitchiri means 'exactly' or 'tightly'.
Examples
Examples
明日は三時きっちりに駅に来てください。
あしたは さんじ きっちりに えきに きてください。
Please come to the station tomorrow exactly at three o'clock.
LiteralIndicates punctuality.
ビンのふたをきっちりと閉める。
ビンの ふたを きっちりと しめる。
Closing the lid of the jar tightly.
LiteralDescribes physical tightness without gaps.
彼は何事もきっちりこなす性格だ。
かれは なにごとも きっちり こなす せいかくだ。
He has a personality that handles everything methodically.
FigurativeDescribes a person's disciplined and neat work habit.
代金はきっちり一万円です。
だいきんは きっちり いちまんえんです。
The cost is exactly ten thousand yen.
LiteralUsed for exact amounts of money.
このスーツはサイズがきっちりしている。
この スーツは サイズが きっちり している。
This suit fits perfectly.
VisualIndicates clothing that fits the body well.
Similar Words
きちんと
kichinto
An adverb describing an action or state that is orderly, accurate, and in accordance with rules or expectations. Emphasizes orderliness and tidiness.
きっかり
kikkari
A word indicating an exact amount or point in time with no deviation or surplus. Strictly for exact numbers and time.
ぴったり
pittari
Describes things that fit perfectly, match exactly, or an action that stops completely. Emphasizes matching or two things meeting perfectly.
Questions
Is kitchiri the same as 'perfectly'?
In many contexts yes, but specifically it means 'perfectly because there is no looseness or gap'.
Can I use it for flavor?
No, kitchiri is not used to describe how food tastes.
Does it mean the same as 'tight' in clothes?
It means a 'perfect, snug fit.' If the clothes are uncomfortably tight, 'kitsui' is better.
Source Details
- Entry ID
- 1003420
- Source
- JMdict_english
- Revision
- -
- Review notes
- No special notes
- Active language
- English
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