Jōyō KanjiOrganized by School Grade

kanji

Meaning

Come

Reading

Parts

米Rice 一One

Example Word

来る: come. The Japanese verb '来る (くる)' means 'to come'. It is used to indicate movement towards the speaker or the location of the speaker. This verb is highly versatile and can be used in various contexts, such as inviting someone, indicating arrival, or expressing future events. For example: Please come to my house「私の家に来てください」(わたしのいえにきてください). He will come tomorrow「彼は明日来ます」(かれはあしたきます). The verb '来る' is irregular and conjugates differently from other verbs, so it's important to pay attention to its forms in different tenses and politeness levels.

Radical

木

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

5

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Think

Reading

Parts

心Heart 田Rice field

Example Word

思う: think. The Japanese verb '思う (おもう)' means 'to think'. It is used to express thoughts, opinions, or feelings about something. This verb is often used in casual and formal contexts to convey personal beliefs or impressions. For example: I think it's interesting「それは面白いと思う」(それはおもしろいとおもう). He thinks she is kind「彼は彼女が優しいと思う」(かれはかのじょがやさしいとおもう). It can also be used to express uncertainty or speculation, as in 'I think it might rain「雨が降ると思う」(あめがふるとおもう)'. Note that '思う' is often paired with particles like 'と' or 'を' to indicate the object of thought.

Radical

心

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

9

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Minute, Part

Reading

Parts

八Eight 刀Sword

Example Word

自分: self. The Japanese noun '自分 (じぶん)' means 'self' and is used to refer to oneself in a general sense. It can be used in various contexts to indicate the speaker or the person being referred to. It is often used in reflexive contexts or when emphasizing one's own actions or feelings. For example: I did it myself「自分でやりました」(じぶんでやりました). He always thinks about himself「彼はいつも自分のことを考えている」(かれはいつもじぶんのことをかんがえている). Note that '自分' can sometimes be used to refer to others in certain contexts, especially in group settings or when speaking about someone in a respectful manner.

Radical

刀

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

10

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

What

Reading

Parts

亻Person (人)可Possible

Example Word

何: what. The Japanese pronoun '何 (なに)' means 'what'. It is used to ask questions about things, objects, or abstract concepts. It is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, such as asking for information, clarification, or identification. For example: What is this?「これは何？」(これはなに？). What are you doing?「何をしているの？」(なにをしているの？). It can also be used in expressions like '何でも (なにでも)' meaning 'anything' or 'whatever'. Note that '何' can also be read as 'なん' in certain contexts, such as when followed by certain particles or in specific phrases, but the meaning remains the same.

Radical

人

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

13

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Time, Hour

Reading

Parts

寺Temple 日Day, Sun

Example Word

時々: sometimes. The Japanese adverb '時々 (ときどき)' means 'sometimes'. It is used to indicate that an action or event occurs occasionally, but not regularly or frequently. This adverb can be placed at the beginning or middle of a sentence, depending on the emphasis. For example: I sometimes go to the park「時々公園に行きます」(ときどきこうえんにいきます). She sometimes reads books「彼女は時々本を読みます」(かのじょはときどきほんをよみます). It is a versatile word that can be used in both casual and formal contexts.

Radical

日

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

14

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Go

Reading

Parts

彳Stop 丁Street 一One

Example Word

行く: go. The Japanese verb '行く (いく)' means 'to go'. It is used to indicate movement from one place to another. This verb is highly versatile and can be used in various contexts, such as physical movement, attending events, or even abstract concepts like progress. For example: I will go to the park「公園に行く」(こうえんにいく). She goes to school every day「彼女は毎日学校に行く」(かのじょはまいにちがっこうにいく). Additionally, '行く' can be used in compound verbs and expressions, such as '出かける (でかける)' meaning 'to go out' or 'to leave'. It's important to note that '行く' can also imply a sense of continuation or progression, as in 'このまま行く (このままでいく)' meaning 'to continue as is'.

Radical

行

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

18

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Self

Reading

Parts

丿Katakana no 目Eye

Example Word

自分: self. The Japanese noun '自分 (じぶん)' means 'self' and is used to refer to oneself in a general sense. It can be used in various contexts to indicate the speaker or the person being referred to. It is often used in reflexive contexts or when emphasizing one's own actions or feelings. For example: I did it myself「自分でやりました」(じぶんでやりました). He always thinks about himself「彼はいつも自分のことを考えている」(かれはいつもじぶんのことをかんがえている). Note that '自分' can sometimes be used to refer to others in certain contexts, especially in group settings or when speaking about someone in a respectful manner.

Radical

自

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

20

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Interval, Space

Reading

Parts

門Gate 日Day, Sun

Example Word

間: between. The Japanese noun '間 (あいだ)' primarily means 'between' or 'interval'. It refers to the space, time, or relationship between two or more things. It can be used in both physical and abstract contexts. For example: the distance between the two buildings「二つの建物の間」(ふたつのたてもののあいだ). The time between lunch and dinner「昼食と夕食の間」(ちゅうしょくとゆうしょくのあいだ). Additionally, it can imply a relationship or connection, as in the relationship between friends「友達の間」(ともだちのあいだ). This word is versatile and widely used in various contexts to describe intervals or connections.

Radical

門

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

21

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Direction

Reading

Parts

万Ten thousand 丶Dot

Example Word

方: direction or side. The Japanese noun '方 (ほう)' can mean 'direction' or 'side'. It is often used to indicate a physical direction, a choice between options, or a comparison between two things. For example: that direction is dangerous「あの方は危ない」(あのほうはあぶない). I prefer this side「こちらの方が好きです」(こちらのほうがすきです). When used in comparisons, it often follows the structure 'Xの方がYより...' to mean 'X is more... than Y'. For example: apples are more delicious than oranges「りんごの方がオレンジより美味しい」(りんごのほうがオレンジよりおいしい). Note that '方' can also be used to refer to a person in a polite way, but this is a different word with the same kanji and reading, so it is not included here.

Radical

方

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

22

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Say

Reading

Parts

二Two 口Mouth 亠Lid

Example Word

言う: say. The Japanese verb '言う (いう)' means 'to say' or 'to tell'. It is used to express speaking or conveying information. This verb is highly versatile and can be used in various contexts, such as quoting someone, expressing thoughts, or giving instructions. For example: He said he will come「彼は来ると言った」(かれはくるといった). What did you say?「何と言いましたか？」(なんといいましたか？). It can also be used in idiomatic expressions, such as 'そう言う (そういう)' meaning 'that kind of' or 'such'. Note that '言う' is often used in its polite form '言います (いいます)' in formal situations.

Radical

言

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

25

Radical Form

訁

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

House

Reading

Parts

豕Pig 宀Roof

Example Word

家: house. The Japanese noun '家 (いえ)' primarily means 'house'. It refers to a building where people live, a residence. It can also imply the concept of home or one's family. For example: This is my house「これは私の家です」(これはわたしのいえです). I am going home「家に帰ります」(いえにかえります). While '家' can sometimes be used to refer to one's family or household, its primary and most common usage is to denote a physical house or home.

Radical

宀

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

31

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Before, Front

Reading

Parts

月Moon, Month 刂Sword (刀)䒑Herbs

Example Word

前: before or front. The Japanese noun '前 (まえ)' has two primary meanings. The first is 'front', referring to the forward-facing part or side of something. For example: the front of the house「家の前」(いえのまえ). The second meaning is 'before', indicating a time or event that precedes another. For example: before the meeting「会議の前」(かいぎのまえ). It's important to note that '前' can also be used in compound words to indicate precedence or priority, such as '前売り (まえうり)' meaning 'advance sale'. Additionally, '前' can be used in expressions like '前に (まえに)' to mean 'in front of' or 'before' in a temporal sense, as in 'before eating'「食べる前に」(たべるまえに).

Radical

刀

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

32

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Heart

Reading

Parts

丿Katakana no 丶Dot ⺃Second (乙)

Example Word

心: heart or mind. The Japanese noun '心 (こころ)' can mean both 'heart' and 'mind', depending on the context. It refers to the emotional or mental state of a person, encompassing feelings, thoughts, and intentions. For example: Her heart is kind「彼女の心は優しい」(かのじょのこころはやさしい). I want to understand his mind「彼の心を理解したい」(かれのこころをりかいしたい). The word is often used in expressions related to emotions, such as '心が痛む (こころがいたむ)' (to feel heartache) or '心を込める (こころをこめる)' (to put one's heart into something). It can also refer to the core or essence of something, as in '心の声 (こころのこえ)' (inner voice).

Radical

心

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

33

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Now

Reading

Parts

フKatakana fu 人Person 一One

Example Word

今: now. The Japanese adverb '今 (いま)' means 'now'. It is used to indicate the present moment or current time. This word is commonly used in everyday conversation to refer to the immediate present. For example: I am busy now「今忙しいです」(いまいそがしいです). What are you doing now?「今何をしていますか？」(いまなにをしていますか？). It can also be used in combination with other time expressions to specify a particular time frame, such as 'right now' or 'at this moment'. For example: I am studying right now「今勉強しています」(いまべんきょうしています).

Radical

人

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

35

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Know

Reading

Parts

口Mouth 矢Arrow

Example Word

知る: know. The Japanese verb '知る (しる)' means 'to know' or 'to become aware of'. It is used to express knowledge or awareness of something, whether it is information, facts, or people. Unlike '分かる (わかる)', which implies understanding, '知る' focuses on the act of coming to know something. For example: I know that person「あの人を知っています」(あのひとをしっています). I just found out about the news「そのニュースを今知りました」(そのニュースをいましりました). It is often used in the past tense ('知った') to indicate the moment of realization or discovery.

Radical

矢

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

40

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

After, Behind

Reading

Parts

幺Slight 彳Stop 夂Late

Example Word

後: after. The Japanese adverb '後 (あと)' means 'after'. It is commonly used to indicate a sequence of events or time, such as something happening after another event. It can also imply 'later' or 'remaining'. For example: I'll eat after studying「勉強した後で食べます」(べんきょうしたあとでたべます). There are three left「後三つあります」(あとみっつあります). The word can also be used in phrases like '後で (あとで)' to mean 'later' or 'afterwards'. It is important to note that '後' can also function as a noun meaning 'later' or 'behind', but as an adverb, it primarily conveys the idea of 'after' in terms of time or sequence.

Radical

彳

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

45

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Fit, Match

Reading

Parts

口Mouth 人Person 一One

Example Word

場合: case. The Japanese noun '場合 (ばあい)' means 'case' or 'situation'. It is used to refer to a specific instance, scenario, or circumstance. This word is often used in conditional statements or when discussing hypothetical situations. For example: in case of rain, the event will be canceled「雨の場合、イベントは中止です」(あめのばあい、イベントはちゅうしです). In that case, I will call you「その場合、電話します」(そのばあい、でんわします). Note that '場合' is commonly paired with conditional phrases like '～の場合' to indicate 'in the case of ~' or 'if ~ happens'.

Radical

口

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

48

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Ground

Reading

Parts

土Soil 也To be

Example Word

地: ground. The Japanese noun '地 (ち)' primarily means 'ground' or 'earth'. It refers to the solid surface of the earth, as opposed to the sky or water. It can also be used metaphorically to describe the foundation or basis of something. For example: the ground is wet「地が濡れている」(ちがぬれている). This land is fertile「この地は肥沃だ」(このちはひよくだ). Additionally, '地' can be used in compound words to denote specific types of land or areas, such as '地図 (ちず)' (map) or '地元 (じもと)' (hometown).

Radical

土

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

53

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Talk

Reading

Parts

舌Tongue 言Say

Example Word

話: story. The Japanese noun '話 (はなし)' primarily means 'story'. It refers to a narrative or account of events, either real or fictional. This word is commonly used in everyday conversation and can refer to a wide range of topics, from personal anecdotes to fairy tales. For example: I heard an interesting story「面白い話を聞いた」(おもしろいはなしをきいた). Tell me a story「話をして」(はなしをして). Additionally, '話' can also refer to a conversation or discussion, but in this context, it is more about the content being discussed rather than the act of talking itself. For example: We had a long conversation about the future「将来について長い話をした」(しょうらいについてながいはなしをした).

Radical

言

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

57

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Same

Reading

Parts

口Mouth 冂Enclosure 一One

Example Word

同じ: same. The Japanese determiner '同じ (おなじ)' means 'same'. It is used to indicate that two or more things are identical or unchanged. This word can be used to compare objects, people, situations, or ideas. For example: we have the same bag「私たちは同じバッグを持っています」(わたしたちはおなじバッグをもっています). This is the same as yesterday「これは昨日と同じです」(これはきのうとおなじです). Note that '同じ' is often followed by the particle 'の' when modifying a noun, as in '同じ色 (おなじいろ) (same color)'.

Radical

口

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

60

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Bright

Reading

Parts

月Moon, Month 日Day, Sun

Example Word

明らか: clear. The Japanese adjective '明らか (あきらか)' means 'clear' or 'obvious'. It is used to describe something that is evident, apparent, or easily understood. This word is often used in formal or written contexts to emphasize clarity or certainty. For example: The truth is clear「真実は明らかだ」(しんじつはあきらかだ). It is obvious that he is lying「彼が嘘をついているのは明らかだ」(かれがうそをついているのはあきらかだ). The results are clear「結果は明らかだ」(けっかはあきらかだ). Note that '明らか' is often followed by the copula 'だ' or 'です' to form a complete statement.

Radical

日

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

63

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Write

Reading

Parts

日Day, Sun 聿Brush

Example Word

書く: write. The Japanese verb '書く (かく)' means 'to write'. It is used to describe the action of writing something down, such as words, letters, or notes. This verb is commonly used in various contexts, from writing a letter to taking notes in class. For example: I write a letter「手紙を書く」(てがみをかく). She writes her name「彼女は名前を書く」(かのじょはなまえをかく). The verb can also be used metaphorically to describe the act of composing or creating written content, such as writing a book or an article.

Radical

曰

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

67

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Listen

Reading

Parts

門Gate 耳Ear

Example Word

聞く: listen or ask. The Japanese verb '聞く (きく)' has two primary meanings: 'to ask' and 'to listen'. When used to mean 'to ask', it refers to inquiring or seeking information from someone. For example: I asked the teacher「先生に聞いた」(せんせいにきいた). When used to mean 'to listen', it refers to the act of hearing or paying attention to sounds or speech. For example: I listened to music「音楽を聞いた」(おんがくをきいた). The context usually clarifies which meaning is intended. Note that '聞く' is often used in polite requests, such as '聞いてください (きいてください)' (please listen/ask).

Radical

耳

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

68

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Few

Reading

Parts

小Small 丿Katakana no

Example Word

少し: a little. The Japanese adverb '少し (すこし)' means 'a little' or 'a bit'. It is used to indicate a small quantity, degree, or extent of something. This word is versatile and can be applied to various contexts, such as time, amount, or degree. For example: I have a little time「少し時間があります」(すこしじかんがあります). Please wait a little longer「もう少し待ってください」(もうすこしまってください). It can also be used to soften requests or statements, making them sound more polite. Note that '少し' is often used in everyday conversation and is considered neutral in tone.

Radical

小

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

70

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Long, Leader

Reading

Parts

三Three 衣Clothes 丨Stick

Example Word

長い: long. The Japanese adjective '長い (ながい)' means 'long'. It is used to describe something that has a great length or duration. This can refer to physical objects, such as a long rope, or abstract concepts, like a long time. For example: this rope is long「このロープは長い」(このロープはながい). The meeting was long「会議は長かった」(かいぎはながかった). It can also be used metaphorically, such as in '長い話 (ながいはなし)', meaning 'a long story'. Note that when modifying a noun, it is often used in the form '長い + noun', as in '長い道 (ながいみち) (long road)'.

Radical

長

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

71

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Commute, Pass

Reading

Parts

辶Walk 甬Path

Example Word

通り: way or street. The Japanese noun '通り (とおり)' can mean 'street' or 'way'. When referring to 'street', it describes a physical road or path, such as in the sentence: I walked down the street「通りを歩いた」(とおりをあるいた). When referring to 'way', it can describe a method, manner, or style of doing something, as in: That's the way to do it「それがやり方の通りだ」(それがやりかたのとおりだ). The word can also imply conformity or accordance, as in: according to the plan「計画通りに」(けいかくとおりに). The context often determines which meaning is intended.

Radical

辵

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

72

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Face

Reading

Parts

立Stand 八Eight 厂Cliff 𦣻Neck (首)彡Fur

Example Word

顔: face. The Japanese noun '顔 (かお)' means 'face'. It refers to the front part of a person's head, from the forehead to the chin, including the eyes, nose, and mouth. This word is commonly used in everyday conversation and can also be used metaphorically to represent one's expression, appearance, or reputation. For example: She has a beautiful face「彼女は顔がきれいです」(かのじょはかおがきれいです). I can't show my face there「私はそこに顔を出せない」(わたしはそこにかおをだせない). The word '顔' can also be used in idiomatic expressions, such as '顔を出す (かおをだす)', which means 'to show up' or 'to make an appearance'.

Radical

頁

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

79

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Place

Reading

Parts

旦Dawn 土Soil 勿Must not

Example Word

場合: case. The Japanese noun '場合 (ばあい)' means 'case' or 'situation'. It is used to refer to a specific instance, scenario, or circumstance. This word is often used in conditional statements or when discussing hypothetical situations. For example: in case of rain, the event will be canceled「雨の場合、イベントは中止です」(あめのばあい、イベントはちゅうしです). In that case, I will call you「その場合、電話します」(そのばあい、でんわします). Note that '場合' is commonly paired with conditional phrases like '～の場合' to indicate 'in the case of ~' or 'if ~ happens'.

Radical

土

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

84

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Outside

Reading

Parts

夕Evening 卜Divination

Example Word

外: outside. The Japanese noun '外 (そと)' means 'outside'. It refers to the external environment or space that is not inside a building or enclosed area. This word is commonly used to describe being outdoors or the area beyond a specific boundary. For example: Let's go outside「外に行こう」(そとにいこう). It's cold outside「外は寒い」(そとはさむい). The word can also be used metaphorically to indicate something outside of a particular scope or context, such as 'outside the rules' (ルールの外).

Radical

夕

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

87

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Reason

Reading

Parts

里Hometown 王King

Example Word

理由: reason. The Japanese noun '理由 (りゆう)' means 'reason'. It refers to the cause, explanation, or justification for something. This word is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to explain why something happened or why someone did something. For example: What is the reason for your absence?「欠席の理由は何ですか？」(けっせきのりゆうはなんですか？). There is no reason to worry「心配する理由はない」(しんぱいするりゆうはない). It can also be used in legal or logical contexts to denote grounds or rationale.

Radical

玉

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

88

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Way

Reading

Parts

辶Walk 首Neck

Example Word

道: road or way. The Japanese noun '道 (みち)' primarily means 'road' or 'path', referring to a physical route for traveling. It can also mean 'way' in a more abstract sense, such as a method, principle, or journey. For example: This road is long「この道は長い」(このみちはながい). The way to success is hard「成功への道は難しい」(せいこうへのみちはむずかしい). The word is versatile and can be used in both literal and metaphorical contexts. It is also commonly found in compound words, such as '歩道 (ほどう)' (sidewalk) or '武道 (ぶどう)' (martial arts).

Radical

辵

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

89

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Think, Consider

Reading

Parts

丂Breath obstruction 耂Old (老)

Example Word

考える: think. The Japanese verb '考える (かんがえる)' means 'to think'. It is used to describe the act of considering, pondering, or reflecting on something. This verb is often used in contexts where someone is contemplating an idea, making a decision, or solving a problem. For example: I will think about it「それを考えます」(それをかんがえます). He is thinking deeply「彼は深く考えている」(かれはふかくかんがえている). The verb can also be used in more abstract contexts, such as thinking about the future or considering a theory. It is a versatile and commonly used verb in Japanese.

Radical

老

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

91

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Hit, Appropriate

Reading

Parts

彐Katakana yo ⺌Small (小)

Example Word

本当: truth. The Japanese noun '本当 (ほんとう)' means 'truth' or 'reality'. It is often used to express something that is genuine, real, or true. It can also be used in questions or exclamations to confirm the validity of a statement. For example: Is that true?「それは本当ですか？」(それはほんとうですか？). This is the truth「これは本当です」(これはほんとうです). It can also be used in phrases like '本当に (ほんとうに)' to mean 'really' or 'truly', emphasizing sincerity or seriousness.

Radical

彐

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

92

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Make

Reading

Parts

𠂉Person (人)二Two 丨Stick 亻Person (人)

Example Word

作る: make or create. The Japanese verb '作る (つくる)' primarily means 'to make' or 'to create'. It is used to describe the act of producing, constructing, or forming something. This verb can be applied to a wide range of contexts, such as making food, creating art, or building objects. For example: I made dinner「夕食を作った」(ゆうしょくをつくった). She created a beautiful painting「彼女は美しい絵を作った」(かのじょはうつくしいえをつくった). The nuance of '作る' often implies a deliberate and thoughtful process of creation, whether it's something tangible or abstract.

Radical

人

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

96

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Country

Reading

Parts

口Mouth 玉Ball, Jewel

Example Word

国: country. The Japanese noun '国 (くに)' primarily means 'country' or 'nation'. It refers to a sovereign state or a land with its own government, culture, and people. It can also be used in a broader sense to refer to one's homeland or native country. For example: I love my country「私は国が大好きです」(わたしはくにがだいすきです). This country is beautiful「この国は美しい」(このくにはうつくしい). In some contexts, it can also refer to a region or province, especially in historical or literary settings. For instance, in ancient Japan, '国' was used to denote feudal domains or provinces.

Radical

囗

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

97

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Meet

Reading

Parts

二Two 人Person 厶Private

Example Word

社会: society. The Japanese noun '社会 (しゃかい)' refers to 'society' as a whole, encompassing the collective organization of people, communities, and institutions. It is often used in contexts discussing social structures, norms, or issues. For example: Society is changing rapidly「社会は急速に変化している」(しゃかいはきゅうそくにへんかしている). He works for the benefit of society「彼は社会の利益のために働いている」(かれはしゃかいのりえきのためにはたらいている). The term can also refer to specific social groups or communities, such as 'business society' (ビジネス社会) or 'school society' (学校社会).

Radical

人

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

98

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Wind, Style

Reading

Parts

凡Common 虫Insect

Example Word

風: wind. The Japanese noun '風 (かぜ)' primarily means 'wind'. It refers to the natural movement of air, especially in the form of a current of air blowing from a particular direction. This word is commonly used in weather-related contexts. For example: The wind is strong today「今日は風が強い」(きょうはかぜがつよい). I can hear the sound of the wind「風の音が聞こえる」(かぜのおとがきこえる). Additionally, '風' can sometimes be used metaphorically to describe trends or influences, such as in '時代の風 (じだいのかぜ)', meaning 'the wind of the times', referring to the trends or spirit of an era.

Radical

風

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

102

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Night

Reading

Parts

亻Person (人)夂Late 亠Lid 丶Dot

Example Word

夜: night. The Japanese noun '夜 (よる)' means 'night'. It refers to the period of darkness between sunset and sunrise. This word is commonly used in various contexts to describe nighttime activities, events, or states. For example: I read a book at night「夜に本を読みます」(よるにほんをよみます). The stars are beautiful at night「夜は星がきれいです」(よるはほしがきれいです). '夜' can also be used in compound words, such as '夜中 (よなか)' meaning 'midnight' or '夜道 (よみち)' meaning 'night road'. It is important to note that '夜' is often used in contrast to '昼 (ひる)' meaning 'daytime'.

Radical

夕

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

105

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Inside

Reading

Parts

人Person 冂Enclosure

Example Word

内: inside. The Japanese noun '内 (うち)' primarily means 'inside' or 'within'. It refers to the interior or internal part of something, whether physical or abstract. It can also imply a sense of belonging or being part of a group or family. For example: inside the house「家の内」(いえのうち). Our family「うちの家族」(うちのかぞく). Additionally, '内' can be used to contrast with '外 (そと)', meaning 'outside'. It is a versatile word often used in both literal and metaphorical contexts.

Radical

冂

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

107

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Voice

Reading

Parts

丨Stick 尸Corpse 士Samurai

Example Word

声: voice. The Japanese noun '声 (こえ)' means 'voice'. It refers to the sound produced by a person or animal when speaking, singing, or making noise. This word is commonly used in various contexts, such as describing someone's voice, expressing emotions through voice, or referring to vocal sounds in general. For example: Her voice is beautiful「彼女の声は美しい」(かのじょのこえはうつくしい). I heard a loud voice「大きな声が聞こえた」(おおきなこえがきこえた). The word can also be used metaphorically to represent opinions or support, as in 'the voice of the people'「人々の声」(ひとびとのこえ).

Radical

士

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

110

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

New

Reading

Parts

斤Axe, Catty 亲Parent (親)

Example Word

新しい: new. The Japanese adjective '新しい (あたらしい)' means 'new'. It is used to describe something that has recently been made, discovered, or introduced. This adjective can be applied to objects, ideas, or experiences. For example: I bought a new car「新しい車を買いました」(あたらしいくるまをかいました). This is a new idea「これは新しいアイデアです」(これはあたらしいアイデアです). The adjective can also imply freshness or novelty, as in '新しい友達 (あたらしいともだち) (new friend)'. Note that it is often used to describe something that has not been used or experienced before.

Radical

斤

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

114

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Body

Reading

Parts

亻Person (人)本Book, Origin

Example Word

体: body. The Japanese noun '体 (からだ)' means 'body'. It refers to the physical structure of a person or animal, including all its parts. This word is commonly used in everyday conversation and can be applied in various contexts, such as health, fitness, or describing physical sensations. For example: My body is tired「体が疲れた」(からだがつかれた). Take care of your body「体に気をつけて」(からだにきをつけて). It can also be used metaphorically to describe the main part or structure of something, such as 'the body of a car' (車の体).

Radical

人

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

115

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Many

Reading

Parts

夕Evening

Example Word

多い: many. The Japanese adjective '多い (おおい)' means 'many' or 'a lot'. It is used to describe a large quantity or number of something. This adjective is often used to modify nouns or to describe situations where there is an abundance of something. For example: There are many people「人が多い」(ひとがおおい). There are many books「本が多い」(ほんがおおい). It can also be used in comparative or superlative forms, such as 'もっと多い (もっとおおい)' (more) or '一番多い (いちばんおおい)' (the most). Note that '多い' is typically used in its adjectival form and does not conjugate like verbs.

Radical

夕

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

119

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Near

Reading

Parts

斤Axe, Catty ⻌Walk

Example Word

近く: nearby. The Japanese adverb '近く (ちかく)' means 'nearby' or 'close by'. It is used to indicate proximity in terms of physical distance. This word can be used to describe the location of places, objects, or people relative to something else. For example: The station is nearby「駅は近くです」(えきはちかくです). There is a convenience store nearby「近くにコンビニがあります」(ちかくにコンビニがあります). It can also be used to indicate that something is close in time, such as '近くに夏休みが来ます (ちかくになつやすみがきます) (Summer vacation is coming soon)'. Note that '近く' can also function as a noun meaning 'vicinity' or 'neighborhood', but as an adverb, it primarily conveys the idea of being nearby.

Radical

辵

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

122

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Cut

Reading

Parts

七Seven 刀Sword

Example Word

切る: cut or turn off. The Japanese verb '切る (きる)' has two primary meanings. The first is 'to cut', which refers to physically cutting something, such as paper, food, or objects. For example: I cut the paper「紙を切る」(かみをきる). The second meaning is 'to turn off', which is used when referring to turning off devices, lights, or machinery. For example: Please turn off the light「電気を切ってください」(でんきをきってください). The verb is versatile and widely used in both literal and figurative contexts. It is important to note that the meaning depends on the context in which it is used.

Radical

刀

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

123

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

High, Expensive

Reading

Parts

口Mouth 冂Enclosure 亠Lid

Example Word

高い: high or expensive. The Japanese adjective '高い (たかい)' has two primary meanings: 'high' and 'expensive'. When used to mean 'high', it describes something that is elevated in position or degree, such as a mountain or a level of skill. For example: The mountain is high「山が高い」(やまがたかい). When used to mean 'expensive', it refers to something that costs a lot of money. For example: This bag is expensive「このバッグは高い」(このバッグはたかい). The context in which '高い' is used will determine its meaning, so it's important to pay attention to the surrounding words and sentences.

Radical

高

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

125

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Color

Reading

Parts

巴Swirling water 勹Wrap

Example Word

茶色: brown. The Japanese noun '茶色 (ちゃいろ)' means 'brown'. This color term is derived from the color of tea, specifically green tea, and is used to describe objects, clothing, or anything that has a brown hue. It is a common color term in Japanese and can be used in various contexts. For example: The table is brown「テーブルは茶色です」(てーぶるはちゃいろです). I bought a brown bag「茶色のバッグを買いました」(ちゃいろのばっぐをかいました). The word '茶色' can also be used metaphorically to describe something as plain or ordinary, similar to how 'brown' might be used in English to describe something as unremarkable.

Radical

色

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

126

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Head

Reading

Parts

豆Beans 八Eight 𦣻Neck (首)

Example Word

頭: head. The Japanese noun '頭 (あたま)' primarily means 'head'. It refers to the physical head of a person or animal, but it can also be used metaphorically to refer to intelligence or leadership. For example: my head hurts「頭が痛い」(あたまがいたい). He is the head of the company「彼は会社の頭だ」(かれはかいしゃのあたまだ). Additionally, '頭' can be used in idiomatic expressions, such as '頭がいい (あたまがいい)' meaning 'smart' or 'intelligent'.

Radical

頁

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

129

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Use

Reading

Parts

月Moon, Month 丨Stick

Example Word

用いる: use. The Japanese verb '用いる (もちいる)' means 'to use' or 'to employ'. It is a formal or literary term often used in written language or formal speech. It implies the act of utilizing something for a specific purpose, often with a sense of careful selection or deliberate application. For example: The professor used a new method in his research「教授は新しい方法を用いた」(きょうじゅはあたらしいほうほうをもちいた). This tool is used for precise measurements「この道具は精密な測定に用いられる」(このどうぐはせいみつなそくていにもちいられる). Note that '用いる' is more formal than the common verb '使う (つかう)', which also means 'to use'.

Radical

用

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

130

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Mother

Reading

Parts

毋Mother 丶Dot

Example Word

母: mother. The Japanese noun '母 (はは)' means 'mother'. It is a formal and respectful term used to refer to one's own mother. It is commonly used in polite or formal contexts, such as when speaking to others about one's mother. For example: My mother is kind「私の母は優しい」(わたしのはははやさしい). I will call my mother「母に電話します」(ははにでんわします). Note that '母 (はは)' is more formal than 'お母さん (おかあさん)', which is used in casual or familial settings. The term carries a sense of respect and is often used in written language or formal speech.

Radical

毋

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

132

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Parent

Reading

Parts

立Stand 見See 木Tree, Wood

Example Word

親: parent. The Japanese noun '親 (おや)' means 'parent'. This term is used to refer to one's mother or father, or parents in general. It can also be used in a broader sense to refer to someone who plays a parental role, such as a guardian or mentor. For example: my parents are kind「私の親は優しい」(わたしのおやはやさしい). He is like a parent to me「彼は私にとって親のような存在だ」(かれはわたしにとっておやのようなそんざいだ). The word can also be used in compounds, such as '親友 (しんゆう)' meaning 'close friend' (literally 'parent-like friend'), though this is a different usage of the kanji.

Radical

見

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

134

Radical Form

亲

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Father

Reading

Parts

八Eight 乂Govern

Example Word

父: father. The Japanese noun '父 (ちち)' means 'father'. It is a common and respectful term used to refer to one's own father. This word is typically used in formal or polite contexts, and it carries a sense of respect and affection. For example: my father is kind「私の父は優しい」(わたしのちちはやさしい). I talked to my father yesterday「昨日、父と話しました」(きのう、ちちとはなしました). It's important to note that '父 (ちち)' is used when referring to one's own father, while 'お父さん (おとうさん)' is a more casual and commonly used term, often used when addressing or referring to someone else's father.

Radical

父

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

137

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Pull

Reading

Parts

丨Stick 弓Bow

Example Word

引く: pull or catch. The Japanese verb '引く (ひく)' has multiple meanings depending on the context. The primary meaning is 'to pull,' which refers to the action of drawing something towards oneself or in a particular direction. For example: He pulled the door open「彼はドアを引いて開けた」(かれはドアをひいてあけた). Another common meaning is 'to catch' (as in catching a cold or illness). For example: I caught a cold「風邪を引いた」(かぜをひいた). The verb can also be used in various idiomatic expressions, such as 'to subtract' (引き算, ひきざん) or 'to consult a dictionary' (辞書を引く, じしょをひく). The specific meaning is often determined by the context in which the verb is used.

Radical

弓

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

138

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Return

Reading

Parts

刂Sword (刀)巾Towel 彐Katakana yo 冖Crown

Example Word

帰る: return. The Japanese verb '帰る (かえる)' means 'to return' or 'to go back'. It is commonly used to indicate returning to a place, such as one's home or a familiar location. This verb is often used in everyday conversation to describe going back home after work, school, or an outing. For example: I will return home「家に帰ります」(いえにかえります). He returned to his hometown「彼は故郷に帰った」(かれはふるさとにかえった). The verb can also imply a sense of returning to a state or condition, such as returning to normalcy. Note that '帰る' is an intransitive verb, meaning it does not take a direct object.

Radical

巾

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

141

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Field

Reading

Parts

里Hometown 予Beforehand

Example Word

分野: field. The Japanese noun '分野 (ぶんや)' refers to a specific 'field' or 'area' of study, expertise, or activity. It is commonly used to describe a particular domain or sector, such as academic disciplines, professional areas, or specialized interests. For example: He is an expert in the field of medicine「彼は医学の分野の専門家です」(かれはいがくのぶんやのせんもんかです). This research covers various fields「この研究はさまざまな分野をカバーしています」(このけんきゅうはさまざまなぶんやをかばーしています). The word can also imply a scope or range within which something operates or is relevant.

Radical

里

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

146

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Thick, Fat

Reading

Parts

大Big 丶Dot

Example Word

太陽: sun. The Japanese noun '太陽 (たいよう)' means 'sun'. It refers to the star at the center of our solar system, which provides light and heat to Earth. This word is commonly used in both scientific and everyday contexts. For example: The sun is bright today「今日の太陽は明るい」(きょうのたいようはあかるい). The sun rises in the east「太陽は東から昇る」(たいようはひがしからのぼる). The word can also be used metaphorically to describe something or someone as a source of light or energy, such as in the phrase '彼は私の太陽 (かれはわたしのたいよう)' (He is my sun).

Radical

大

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

147

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Horse

Reading

Parts

三Three 丨Stick ㇉Bent hook 灬Fire (火)

Example Word

馬: horse. The Japanese noun '馬 (うま)' means 'horse'. This word refers to the animal, specifically the domesticated species Equus ferus caballus. It is commonly used in everyday language as well as in idiomatic expressions. For example: I saw a horse at the farm「牧場で馬を見た」(ぼくじょうでうまをみた). The horse is running fast「馬が速く走っている」(うまがはやくはしっている). In Japanese culture, horses have historical significance, often associated with samurai and traditional festivals. The word can also appear in compound words, such as '競馬 (けいば)' (horse racing).

Radical

馬

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

149

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Walk

Reading

Parts

少Few 止Stop

Example Word

歩く: walk. The Japanese verb '歩く (あるく)' means 'to walk'. It is used to describe the action of moving on foot at a regular pace. This verb is commonly used in everyday conversation and can be applied to various contexts, such as walking to a destination, taking a stroll, or simply moving from one place to another on foot. For example: I walk to school every day「私は毎日学校に歩く」(わたしはまいにちがっこうであるく). Let's walk in the park「公園を歩きましょう」(こうえんであるきましょう). The verb can also be used metaphorically to describe progress or movement in a non-literal sense, such as 'walking through life'.

Radical

止

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

150

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Eat, Food

Reading

Parts

良Good 人Person

Example Word

食べる: eat. The Japanese verb '食べる (たべる)' means 'to eat'. It is a common verb used to describe the action of consuming food. This verb is often used in daily conversations and can be conjugated to fit different tenses and levels of politeness. For example: I eat breakfast every morning「私は毎朝朝食を食べる」(わたしはまいあさちょうしょくをたべる). She is eating sushi now「彼女は今寿司を食べている」(かのじょはいますしをたべている). The verb '食べる' can also be used in various expressions and idiomatic phrases, making it a versatile and essential verb in Japanese.

Radical

食

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

153

Radical Form

飠

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Straight, Repair

Reading

Parts

目Eye 十Ten 𠃊Second (乙)

Example Word

直ぐ: immediately. The Japanese adverb '直ぐ (すぐ)' means 'immediately' or 'right away'. It is used to indicate that something happens without delay or very soon after a certain point in time. This word can also imply physical proximity, meaning 'nearby' or 'close by', depending on the context. For example: I will come immediately「すぐ行きます」(すぐいきます). The station is nearby「駅はすぐそこです」(えきはすぐそこです). It's important to note that 'すぐ' can be used in both temporal and spatial contexts, making it a versatile adverb in Japanese.

Radical

目

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

166

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Light

Reading

Parts

儿Legs ⺌Small (小)一One

Example Word

光: light. The Japanese noun '光 (ひかり)' means 'light'. It refers to the natural or artificial illumination that makes things visible. This word is often used in both literal and metaphorical contexts, such as describing sunlight, the light from a lamp, or even hope and enlightenment. For example: the light of the sun is bright「太陽の光は明るい」(たいようのひかりはあかるい). She is the light of my life「彼女は私の人生の光だ」(かのじょはわたしのじんせいのひかりだ). The word can also appear in compound nouns, such as '月光 (げっこう)' (moonlight) or '光線 (こうせん)' (light rays).

Radical

儿

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

170

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Teach

Reading

Parts

孝Filial piety 攵Strike

Example Word

教える: teach. The Japanese verb '教える (おしえる)' means 'to teach'. It is used when someone imparts knowledge, skills, or information to another person. This verb can be used in various contexts, such as teaching a subject, giving instructions, or sharing information. For example: I will teach you Japanese「日本語を教えます」(にほんごをおしえます). Can you teach me how to cook?「料理の仕方を教えてくれますか？」(りょうりのしかたをおしえてくれますか？). The verb can also imply showing or telling someone something they didn't know, as in 'He taught me the way to the station'「彼は駅への道を教えてくれた」(かれはえきへのみちをおしえてくれた).

Radical

攴

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

172

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Gate

Reading

Parts

丨Stick 亅Barb 日Day, Sun

Example Word

専門: specialty. The Japanese noun '専門 (せんもん)' means 'specialty' or 'field of expertise'. It refers to a specific area of knowledge, study, or professional focus. This word is often used in academic, professional, or technical contexts to describe someone's area of specialization. For example: His specialty is Japanese history「彼の専門は日本史です」(かれのせんもんはにほんしです). I want to study computer science as my specialty「私の専門としてコンピュータサイエンスを勉強したいです」(わたしのせんもんとしてコンピュータサイエンスをべんきょうしたいです). The word can also be used in compound nouns, such as '専門家 (せんもんか)' (specialist) or '専門学校 (せんもんがっこう)' (vocational school).

Radical

門

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

176

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Language, Word

Reading

Parts

口Mouth 五Five 言Say

Example Word

語: word. The Japanese noun '語 (ご)' refers to a 'word' or 'language'. It is often used as a suffix to denote a specific type of language or terminology, such as '日本語 (にほんご)' meaning 'Japanese language' or '専門語 (せんもんご)' meaning 'technical term'. Example sentences: I study Japanese words「私は日本語を勉強します」(わたしはにほんごをべんきょうします). This is a technical term「これは専門語です」(これはせんもんごです). The word '語' can also be used in compound words to specify a particular language or dialect, such as '英語 (えいご)' for 'English' or '方言 (ほうげん)' for 'dialect'.

Radical

言

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

183

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Meadow, Original

Reading

Parts

泉Spring, Fountain 厂Cliff

Example Word

原因: cause. The Japanese noun '原因 (げんいん)' means 'cause'. It refers to the reason or source behind an event, situation, or phenomenon. This word is often used in both formal and informal contexts to explain why something happened. For example: the cause of the accident is unknown「事故の原因は不明です」(じこのげんいんはふめいです). Stress is the cause of his illness「ストレスが彼の病気の原因です」(ストレスがかれのびょうきのげんいんです). It can also be used in compound phrases like '根本原因 (こんぽんげんいん)' (root cause) to emphasize the primary source of an issue.

Radical

厂

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

191

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Lively

Reading

Parts

氵Water (水)舌Tongue

Example Word

生活: life. The Japanese verbal noun '生活 (せいかつ)' refers to 'life' in the sense of daily living or livelihood. It encompasses the activities, routines, and conditions that constitute a person's way of living. This term is often used in contexts related to lifestyle, living conditions, and daily necessities. For example: I want to improve my life「生活を改善したい」(せいかつをかいぜんしたい). His life is very busy「彼の生活はとても忙しい」(かれのせいかつはとてもいそがしい). The word can also be used in compound nouns, such as '日常生活 (にちじょうせいかつ)' meaning 'daily life'.

Radical

水

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

193

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Door

Reading

Parts

尸Corpse 一One

Example Word

戸: door. The Japanese noun '戸 (と)' refers to a 'door', specifically a traditional sliding door or panel used in Japanese architecture. It is commonly used in contexts related to traditional Japanese homes, where sliding doors (fusuma or shoji) are prevalent. For example: Please close the door「戸を閉めてください」(とをしめてください). The door is made of wood「その戸は木でできています」(そのとはきでできています). Note that '戸' is often used in compound words, such as '引き戸 (ひきど)' (sliding door) or '雨戸 (あまど)' (storm shutter).

Radical

戶

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

196

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Shape

Reading

Parts

彡Fur 开Open

Example Word

形: shape. The Japanese noun '形 (かたち)' primarily means 'shape'. It refers to the physical form or outline of an object. This word is often used to describe the appearance or structure of something, whether it's a tangible object or an abstract concept. For example: The shape of the mountain is beautiful「山の形が美しい」(やまのかたちがうつくしい). I want to preserve the shape of this tradition「この伝統の形を守りたい」(このでんとうのかたちをまもりたい). Additionally, '形' can sometimes imply the 'form' or 'state' of something, such as in the phrase '形になる' (かたちになる), which means 'to take shape' or 'to materialize'.

Radical

彡

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

201

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Old

Reading

Parts

口Mouth 十Ten

Example Word

古い: old. The Japanese adjective '古い (ふるい)' means 'old'. It is used to describe something that has existed for a long time or is not new. This can refer to objects, traditions, or even ideas. For example: This book is old「この本は古い」(このほんはふるい). That temple is old「あの寺は古い」(あのてらはふるい). The word can also imply something is outdated or no longer in fashion, as in '古い考え (ふるいかんがえ) (old-fashioned idea)'. It is important to note that '古い' is used for inanimate objects or abstract concepts, while '年老いた (としおいた)' is used for living beings to describe old age.

Radical

口

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

208

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Morning

Reading

Parts

月Moon, Month 龺Eminent (卓)

Example Word

朝: morning. The Japanese noun '朝 (あさ)' means 'morning'. It refers to the early part of the day, typically from sunrise until around noon. This word is commonly used in daily conversations to describe activities or events that occur during this time. For example: I wake up early in the morning「私は朝早く起きます」(わたしはあさはやくおきます). The morning sun is beautiful「朝の太陽は美しい」(あさのたいようはうつくしい). It can also be used in compound words like '朝ごはん (あさごはん)' meaning 'breakfast' or '朝日 (あさひ)' meaning 'morning sun'.

Radical

月

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

210

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Sea

Reading

Parts

氵Water (水)毎Every

Example Word

海: sea. The Japanese noun '海 (うみ)' means 'sea'. It refers to the large body of salt water that covers most of the Earth's surface. This word is commonly used in everyday conversation and literature to describe the ocean or a specific sea. For example: I went to the sea「海に行きました」(うみにいきました). The sea is beautiful today「今日の海はきれいです」(きょうのうみはきれいです). It can also be used in compound words, such as '海辺 (うみべ)' meaning 'seaside' or 'beach'.

Radical

水

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

219

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Half

Reading

Parts

干Dry 丷Divide

Example Word

半月: half month. The Japanese noun '半月 (はんつき)' refers to a period of half a month, typically around 15 days. It is often used to describe a specific time frame or duration. For example: I will be on vacation for half a month「半月休みます」(はんつきやすみます). The project will take half a month to complete「そのプロジェクトは半月かかります」(そのプロジェクトははんつきかかります). This term is commonly used in scheduling, planning, and discussing time-related matters.

Radical

十

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

228

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

East

Reading

Parts

木Tree, Wood 日Day, Sun

Example Word

東: east. The Japanese noun '東 (ひがし)' means 'east'. It refers to one of the four cardinal directions and is commonly used in geographical contexts, such as describing locations or directions. For example: The sun rises in the east「太陽は東から昇る」(たいようはひがしからのぼる). Kyoto is east of Osaka「京都は大阪の東にある」(きょうとはおおさかのひがしにある). The word can also be used in compound words, such as '東日本 (ひがしにほん)' meaning 'eastern Japan'.

Radical

木

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

233

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Number

Reading

Parts

米Rice 女Woman 攵Strike

Example Word

数: number or amount. The Japanese noun '数 (すう)' primarily means 'number' or 'amount'. It refers to a numerical value or quantity of something. This word is often used in contexts involving counting, mathematics, or general quantities. For example: the number of students is increasing「学生の数が増えている」(がくせいのかずがふえている). The amount of work is too much「仕事の数が多すぎる」(しごとのかずがおおすぎる). Note that '数' can also imply a sense of 'several' or 'a few' when used in phrases like '数日 (すうじつ)' meaning 'several days'.

Radical

攴

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

235

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Company

Reading

Parts

土Soil 礻Cult (示)

Example Word

社会: society. The Japanese noun '社会 (しゃかい)' refers to 'society' as a whole, encompassing the collective organization of people, communities, and institutions. It is often used in contexts discussing social structures, norms, or issues. For example: Society is changing rapidly「社会は急速に変化している」(しゃかいはきゅうそくにへんかしている). He works for the benefit of society「彼は社会の利益のために働いている」(かれはしゃかいのりえきのためにはたらいている). The term can also refer to specific social groups or communities, such as 'business society' (ビジネス社会) or 'school society' (学校社会).

Radical

示

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

240

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Record

Reading

Parts

言Say 己Oneself

Example Word

記す: record. The Japanese verb '記す (しるす)' means 'to record' or 'to write down'. It is used to describe the act of documenting or noting something in writing, often for the purpose of preserving information. This verb is commonly used in formal or literary contexts. For example: He recorded the event in his diary「彼はその出来事を日記に記した」(かれはそのできごとをにっきにしるした). The scientist noted the results of the experiment「科学者は実験の結果を記した」(かがくしゃはじっけんのけっかをしるした). The verb can also imply a sense of importance or permanence in the act of recording.

Radical

言

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

246

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Paper

Reading

Parts

糸Thread 氏Family name

Example Word

紙: paper. The Japanese noun '紙 (かみ)' means 'paper'. It refers to the material used for writing, printing, or packaging. This word is commonly used in everyday contexts, such as in offices, schools, or homes. For example: Please give me a sheet of paper「紙を一枚ください」(かみをいちまいください). This book is made of recycled paper「この本は再生紙でできています」(このほんはさいせいしでできています). The word can also be used in compound words, such as '折り紙 (おりがみ)' (origami) or '新聞紙 (しんぶんし)' (newspaper).

Radical

糸

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

254

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Far

Reading

Parts

吉Lucky, Good luck 衣Clothes ⻌Walk

Example Word

遠く: far. The Japanese adverb '遠く (とおく)' means 'far'. It is used to describe a considerable distance in space or time. This word can be used to indicate physical distance, such as the distance between two locations, or metaphorical distance, such as the gap between two points in time or in a relationship. For example: The mountain is far away「山は遠くにある」(やまはとおくにある). I can see the ship far in the distance「遠くに船が見える」(とおくにふねがみえる). It's important to note that '遠く' can also be used in a more abstract sense, such as in the phrase '遠くの親戚より近くの他人' (とおくのしんせきよりちかくのたにん), which translates to 'A stranger nearby is better than a relative far away,' highlighting the importance of proximity over distant relationships.

Radical

辵

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

257

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Strong

Reading

Parts

虫Insect 弓Bow 厶Private

Example Word

勉強: study. The Japanese verbal noun '勉強 (べんきょう)' primarily means 'study'. It refers to the act of learning or acquiring knowledge, often through formal education or self-directed efforts. This word is commonly used in contexts related to education, such as studying for exams or learning new skills. For example: I study Japanese every day「毎日日本語を勉強します」(まいにちにほんごをべんきょうします). She is studying hard for her exams「彼女は試験のために一生懸命勉強しています」(かのじょはしけんのためにいっしょうけんめいべんきょうしています). Additionally, '勉強' can sometimes imply a sense of effort or hard work, not just academic study. It can also be used in a broader sense to mean 'learning through experience' or 'gaining knowledge through practice'.

Radical

弓

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

258

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Music, Pleasure

Reading

Parts

冫Ice (水)木Tree, Wood 白White

Example Word

音楽: music. The Japanese noun '音楽 (おんがく)' means 'music'. It refers to the art form and cultural activity that involves organized sound, rhythm, and melody. This word is commonly used in contexts related to listening to, creating, or performing music. For example: I love music「音楽が大好きです」(おんがくがだいすきです). She studies music at university「彼女は大学で音楽を勉強しています」(かのじょはだいがくでおんがくをべんきょうしています). The word can also be used in compound terms, such as '音楽会 (おんがくかい)' (music concert) or '音楽家 (おんがくか)' (musician).

Radical

木

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

259

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Capital

Reading

Parts

小Small 口Mouth 亠Lid

Example Word

京: Kyoto. The Japanese proper noun '京 (きょう)' primarily refers to Kyoto, a city in Japan known for its historical and cultural significance. Kyoto was the capital of Japan for over a thousand years before the capital moved to Tokyo. The term can also be used in historical contexts or literary works to evoke the image of Kyoto. Example sentences: I visited Kyoto last year「去年、京を訪れました」(きょねん、きょうをおとずれました). Kyoto is famous for its temples「京はお寺で有名です」(きょうはおてらでゆうめいです).

Radical

亠

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

275

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Black

Reading

Parts

里Hometown 灬Fire (火)

Example Word

真っ黒: pitch black. The Japanese adjectival noun '真っ黒 (まっくろ)' means 'pitch black' or 'completely black'. It is used to describe something that is entirely black in color, often emphasizing the depth or intensity of the blackness. This word can be used to describe objects, surfaces, or even situations metaphorically. For example: The sky is pitch black「空が真っ黒だ」(そらがまっくろだ). His hands were completely black from the soot「彼の手はすすで真っ黒だった」(かれのてはすすでまっくろだった). Note that '真っ黒' often carries a stronger emphasis than just '黒い (くろい)' (black).

Radical

黑

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

276

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Room

Reading

Parts

至Arrive, Climax 宀Roof

Example Word

室: room. The Japanese suffix '室 (しつ)' means 'room' and is commonly used to denote a specific type of room or space. It is often attached to other words to describe the purpose or function of the room. For example: a classroom is called '教室 (きょうしつ)' and a living room is called '居間 (いま)' or 'リビングルーム (りびんぐるーむ)'. Example sentences: The meeting room is on the second floor「会議室は二階にあります」(かいぎしつはにかいにあります). The music room is quiet「音楽室は静かです」(おんがくしつはしずかです). This suffix is versatile and can be used in various contexts to specify different types of rooms.

Radical

宀

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

286

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Song

Reading

Parts

欠Lack 可Possible

Example Word

歌: song. The Japanese noun '歌 (うた)' means 'song'. It refers to a musical composition with lyrics, typically performed by singing. This word is commonly used in various contexts, such as traditional Japanese songs, pop music, or even karaoke. For example: I like this song「この歌が好きです」(このうたがすきです). She sang a beautiful song「彼女は美しい歌を歌った」(かのじょはうつくしいうたをうたった). The word can also be used metaphorically to describe something poetic or lyrical, such as 'the song of the wind'「風の歌」(かぜのうた).

Radical

欠

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

289

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Public

Reading

Parts

八Eight 厶Private

Example Word

公: duke. The Japanese suffix '公 (こう)' refers to a title of nobility, specifically 'duke'. It is used in historical and formal contexts to denote a high-ranking nobleman. For example: The Duke of Wellington「ウェリントン公」(うぇりんとんこう). This suffix is often attached to names or titles to indicate the person's noble rank. It is important to note that '公' can also be part of compound words related to public or official matters, but in this context, it specifically refers to the noble title.

Radical

八

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

295

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Read

Reading

Parts

言Say 売Sell

Example Word

読む: read. The Japanese verb '読む (よむ)' means 'to read'. It is used to describe the action of reading written or printed material, such as books, newspapers, or documents. This verb is commonly used in everyday conversation and can be applied to various contexts. For example: I read a book「本を読む」(ほんをよむ). He reads the newspaper every morning「彼は毎朝新聞を読む」(かれはまいあさしんぶんをよむ). Additionally, '読む' can also be used metaphorically to mean 'to interpret' or 'to understand' something, such as reading someone's emotions or intentions. For example: She can read people's feelings「彼女は人の気持ちを読むことができる」(かのじょはひとのきもちをよむことができる).

Radical

言

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

296

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Ship

Reading

Parts

八Eight 口Mouth 舟Boat

Example Word

船: ship. The Japanese noun '船 (ふね)' means 'ship' or 'boat'. It refers to a watercraft used for transportation on water, ranging from small boats to large ships. This word is commonly used in contexts involving travel, fishing, or maritime activities. For example: The ship is big「船は大きい」(ふねはおおきい). I boarded the ship「船に乗った」(ふねにのった). It can also be used metaphorically to describe something that carries or transports, such as a 'ship of dreams'「夢の船」(ゆめのふね).

Radical

舟

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

297

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Turn

Reading

Parts

米Rice 丿Katakana no 田Rice field

Example Word

一番: most. The Japanese adverb '一番 (いちばん)' means 'most' or 'number one'. It is used to indicate the highest degree of something, often in comparisons. For example: This is the most delicious「これが一番美味しい」(これがいちばんおいしい). She is the fastest「彼女が一番速い」(かのじょがいちばんはやい). It can also be used to indicate the first in a sequence, such as in '一番目 (いちばんめ) (first in order)'. The word is versatile and can be used in various contexts to emphasize superiority or priority.

Radical

田

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

300

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Origin

Reading

Parts

二Two 儿Legs

Example Word

元気: healthy or energetic. The Japanese adjective '元気 (げんき)' primarily means 'healthy' or 'energetic'. It is commonly used to describe someone's physical or mental state, indicating they are in good health or full of energy. It can also be used as a greeting to ask about someone's well-being. For example: Are you feeling well?「元気ですか？」(げんきですか？). He is very energetic「彼はとても元気です」(かれはとてもげんきです). The word can also describe something lively or spirited, such as a lively atmosphere「元気な雰囲気」(げんきなふんいき). Note that '元気' is often used in casual conversations and is a positive, uplifting term.

Radical

儿

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

304

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

West

Reading

Parts

口Mouth 儿Legs 一One

Example Word

西: west. The Japanese noun '西 (にし)' means 'west'. It is used to indicate the cardinal direction west, and can be used in various contexts such as geography, navigation, or describing locations. For example: The sun sets in the west「太陽は西に沈む」(たいようはにしにしずむ). Kyoto is west of Tokyo「京都は東京の西にある」(きょうとはとうきょうのにしにある). The word can also be part of compound words, such as '西側 (にしがわ)' meaning 'west side' or 'western side'.

Radical

西

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

315

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Slender

Reading

Parts

糸Thread 田Rice field

Example Word

細胞: cell. The Japanese noun '細胞 (さいぼう)' refers to a 'cell', the basic structural and functional unit of living organisms. This term is commonly used in biological and medical contexts. For example: cells divide「細胞が分裂する」(さいぼうがぶんれつする). The human body is made up of many cells「人体は多くの細胞でできている」(じんたいはおおくのさいぼうでできている). It can also be used metaphorically to describe the smallest unit of an organization or system, such as a 'cell' in a political or social group.

Radical

糸

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

323

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Ten thousand

Reading

Parts

勹Wrap 一One

Example Word

万: ten thousand. The Japanese noun '万 (まん)' means 'ten thousand'. It is used to denote the number 10,000 and is commonly used in contexts involving large quantities or sums. For example: ten thousand yen「一万円」(いちまんえん). There are ten thousand people「一万人がいます」(いちまんにんがいます). It's important to note that '万' is often combined with other numbers to form larger numbers, such as '十万 (じゅうまん)' for 100,000 or '百万 (ひゃくまん)' for 1,000,000.

Radical

一

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

331

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Point

Reading

Parts

占Fortune telling 灬Fire (火)

Example Word

点: point or mark. The Japanese noun '点 (てん)' primarily means 'point' or 'mark'. It can refer to a dot or spot, as in a punctuation mark or a point on a graph. It is also used to denote a score or grade, such as in tests or games. Additionally, it can signify a particular aspect or detail of a broader topic. For example: The teacher gave me full points「先生は私に満点をくれた」(せんせいはわたしにまんてんをくれた). There is a red dot on the paper「紙に赤い点がある」(かみにあかいてんがある). This point is important「この点は重要だ」(このてんはじゅうようだ).

Radical

火

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

332

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Friend

Reading

Parts

𠂇Cliff (厂)又Again

Example Word

友達: friend. The Japanese noun '友達 (ともだち)' means 'friend'. It refers to a person whom one knows, likes, and trusts. This word is commonly used in everyday conversation and is neutral in terms of formality. It can be used to describe both close friends and casual acquaintances. For example: I have many friends「友達がたくさんいます」(ともだちがたくさんいます). She is my best friend「彼女は私の親友です」(かのじょはわたしのしんゆうです). Note that '友達' is often used in informal contexts, while '友人 (ゆうじん)' is a more formal alternative.

Radical

又

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

336

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Snow

Reading

Parts

彐Katakana yo 雨Rain

Example Word

雪: snow. The Japanese noun '雪 (ゆき)' means 'snow'. This word refers to the frozen precipitation that falls from the sky in cold weather. It is commonly used to describe weather conditions or to talk about snowy landscapes. For example: The snow is beautiful「雪がきれいです」(ゆきがきれいです). I like snow「私は雪が好きです」(わたしはゆきがすきです). Snow can also be used metaphorically to describe something pure or white, such as '雪のような肌 (ゆきのようなはだ)' meaning 'skin like snow'.

Radical

雨

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

338

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Neck

Reading

Parts

自Self 䒑Herbs

Example Word

首: head or neck. The Japanese noun '首 (くび)' primarily means 'neck', referring to the part of the body connecting the head to the rest of the body. It can also mean 'head' in certain contexts, such as when referring to the leader of an organization or group. For example: my neck hurts「首が痛い」(くびがいたい). The company's head resigned「会社の首が辞任した」(かいしゃのくびがじにんした). The word can also be used metaphorically, as in 'to save one's neck (to avoid trouble)'「首をすくめる」(くびをすくめる).

Radical

首

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

351

Radical Form

𦣻

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Electricity

Reading

Parts

日Day, Sun 雨Rain ⺃Second (乙)

Example Word

電話: call. The Japanese verbal noun '電話 (でんわ)' primarily means 'call' or 'telephone'. It is used to refer to the act of making a phone call or the telephone itself. This word is commonly used in everyday conversations and can be combined with verbs like する (suru) to form the phrase '電話する (でんわする)', meaning 'to make a phone call'. For example: I will call you later「後で電話します」(あとででんわします). Please call me tomorrow「明日電話してください」(あしたでんわしてください). The word can also refer to the device itself, as in 'This is my telephone「これは私の電話です」(これはわたしのでんわです)'.

Radical

雨

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

353

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Older brother

Reading

Parts

口Mouth 儿Legs

Example Word

お兄さん: older brother. The Japanese noun 'お兄さん (おにいさん)' is a polite term used to refer to an older brother. It is commonly used in both formal and informal settings. The term can also be used to address or refer to a young man in a respectful manner, even if he is not related to the speaker. For example: My older brother is kind「私のお兄さんは優しい」(わたしのおにいさんはやさしい). Excuse me, young man「すみません、お兄さん」(すみません、おにいさん). The term 'お兄さん' carries a sense of respect and affection, and it is often used by younger siblings or children when referring to their older brothers.

Radical

儿

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

360

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Tea

Reading

Parts

木Tree, Wood 人Person 艹Grass

Example Word

茶色: brown. The Japanese noun '茶色 (ちゃいろ)' means 'brown'. This color term is derived from the color of tea, specifically green tea, and is used to describe objects, clothing, or anything that has a brown hue. It is a common color term in Japanese and can be used in various contexts. For example: The table is brown「テーブルは茶色です」(てーぶるはちゃいろです). I bought a brown bag「茶色のバッグを買いました」(ちゃいろのばっぐをかいました). The word '茶色' can also be used metaphorically to describe something as plain or ordinary, similar to how 'brown' might be used in English to describe something as unremarkable.

Radical

艸

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

361

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Pedestal, Machine

Reading

Parts

口Mouth 厶Private

Example Word

台: stand or counter. The Japanese noun '台 (だい)' has two primary meanings. First, it refers to a 'stand' or 'base' used to support or elevate something, such as a pedestal or platform. For example: the vase is on the stand「花瓶は台の上にある」(かびんはだいのうえにある). Second, it is used as a counter for machines, vehicles, or large equipment. For example: two cars「車が二台」(くるまがにだい). The word is versatile and context-dependent, so its meaning is determined by how it is used in a sentence.

Radical

口

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

364

Handwriting