字Jōyō KanjiOrganized by School Grade

kanji

Meaning

Stop

Reading

Parts

丨Stick 上Up

Example Word

止める: stop. The Japanese verb '止める (やめる)' means 'to stop' or 'to quit'. It is commonly used to indicate the cessation of an action, habit, or activity. For example: I stopped smoking「タバコをやめました」(たばこをやめました). She quit her job「彼女は仕事をやめた」(かのじょはしごとをやめた). This verb can also imply giving up something permanently or temporarily, depending on the context. It is often used in everyday conversations to express the act of discontinuing something.

Radical

止

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

365

Radical Form

龰

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Spring

Reading

Parts

日Day, Sun 𡗗Folded hands

Example Word

春: spring. The Japanese noun '春 (はる)' means 'spring', referring to the season between winter and summer. It is often associated with renewal, blooming flowers, and warmer weather. This word is commonly used in both everyday conversation and literature to evoke the imagery and feelings of spring. For example: Spring has arrived「春が来た」(はるがきた). I love spring because of the cherry blossoms「桜があるので春が大好きです」(さくらがあるのではるがだいすきです). The word can also be used metaphorically to describe a period of new beginnings or growth.

Radical

日

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

378

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Picture

Reading

Parts

由Reason 凵Open box 一One

Example Word

映画: movie. The Japanese noun '映画 (えいが)' means 'movie' or 'film'. It refers to a motion picture, typically shown in theaters or on television. This word is commonly used in everyday conversation when discussing films, going to the cinema, or watching movies. For example: I watched a movie yesterday「昨日映画を見ました」(きのうえいがをみました). This movie is interesting「この映画は面白い」(このえいがはおもしろい). The word can also be used in compound nouns, such as '映画館 (えいがかん)' (movie theater) or '映画監督 (えいがかんとく)' (film director).

Radical

田

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

384

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Corner, Angle

Reading

Parts

土Soil 冂Enclosure ⺈Wrap

Example Word

四角い: square. The Japanese adjective '四角い (しかくい)' means 'square'. It is used to describe objects or shapes that have four equal sides and four right angles, resembling a square. This word can also be used metaphorically to describe something that is rigid or inflexible in nature. For example: This table is square「このテーブルは四角い」(このテーブルはしかくい). His way of thinking is too square「彼の考え方は四角すぎる」(かれのかんがえかたはしかくすぎる). Note that '四角い' is often used to describe physical shapes, but it can also be applied to abstract concepts to imply a lack of flexibility.

Radical

角

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

389

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Answer

Reading

Parts

合Fit, Match 竹Bamboo

Example Word

答える: answer. The Japanese verb '答える (こたえる)' means 'to answer'. It is used when responding to a question, request, or situation. This verb is commonly paired with the particle 'に' to indicate what is being answered. For example: I answered the question「質問に答えた」(しつもんにこたえた). He answered politely「彼は丁寧に答えた」(かれはていねいにこたえた). Note that '答える' can also imply a response to a challenge or expectation, such as in '期待に答える (きたいにこたえる)' (to live up to expectations).

Radical

竹

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

392

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Shop

Reading

Parts

广Dotted cliff 占Fortune telling

Example Word

店: shop. The Japanese noun '店 (みせ)' means 'shop'. It refers to a place where goods or services are sold. This word is commonly used in everyday conversation to describe various types of shops, such as a grocery store, clothing store, or restaurant. For example: I went to the shop「店に行きました」(みせにいきました). This shop sells delicious bread「この店は美味しいパンを売っています」(このみせはおいしいパンをうっています). The word '店' can also be part of compound words, such as '本屋 (ほんや) (bookstore)' or '喫茶店 (きっさてん) (coffee shop)', where it retains its meaning of a place of business.

Radical

广

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

406

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Temple

Reading

Parts

寸Measurement 土Soil

Example Word

寺: temple. The Japanese noun '寺 (てら)' refers to a Buddhist temple, a place of worship and religious practice in Buddhism. It is distinct from Shinto shrines, which are called '神社 (じんじゃ)'. Temples often house statues of Buddha, serve as centers for meditation, and host various religious ceremonies. For example: I visited a temple「寺を訪れました」(てらをおとずれました). There is an old temple in Kyoto「京都に古い寺があります」(きょうとにふるいてらがあります). The word is commonly used in contexts related to religion, history, and tourism.

Radical

寸

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

408

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Construction

Reading

Parts

丅Down (下)一One

Example Word

工事: construction. The Japanese verbal noun '工事 (こうじ)' refers to 'construction' or 'construction work'. It is commonly used to describe the process of building or repairing structures, such as buildings, roads, or bridges. This term is often seen in signs or announcements related to ongoing construction projects. For example: The construction of the new bridge is underway「新しい橋の工事が進んでいます」(あたらしいはしのこうじがすすんでいます). Road construction is causing traffic delays「道路工事で渋滞が起きています」(どうろこうじでじゅうたいがおきています). The word can also be used in contexts like '工事中 (こうじちゅう)', which means 'under construction' and is often displayed at construction sites.

Radical

工

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

411

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Measure, Plan

Reading

Parts

十Ten 言Say

Example Word

目覚まし時計: alarm clock. The Japanese noun '目覚まし時計 (めざましどけい)' refers to an 'alarm clock', a device used to wake someone up at a specific time. It is commonly used in daily life to ensure punctuality. For example: I set the alarm clock for 7 AM「目覚まし時計を7時にセットした」(めざましどけいをしちじにセットした). The alarm clock didn't ring this morning「今朝、目覚まし時計が鳴らなかった」(けさ、めざましどけいがならなかった). This word is a compound of '目覚まし (めざまし)', meaning 'waking up', and '時計 (とけい)', meaning 'clock'.

Radical

言

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

422

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Valley

Reading

Parts

ハKatakana ha 口Mouth 人Person

Example Word

谷: valley. The Japanese noun '谷 (たに)' means 'valley'. It refers to a low area of land between hills or mountains, often with a river or stream running through it. This word is commonly used in geographical contexts or to describe natural landscapes. For example: The valley is beautiful「谷は美しい」(たにはうつくしい). We hiked through the valley「私たちは谷をハイキングした」(わたしたちはたにをハイキングした). The word can also be used metaphorically to describe a low point or dip in something, such as in '声の谷 (こえのたに)' (a dip in one's voice).

Radical

谷

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

427

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Wide

Reading

Parts

广Dotted cliff 厶Private

Example Word

広さ: size. The Japanese noun '広さ (ひろさ)' refers to the extent or size of an area, often translated as 'size' or 'extent'. It is used to describe how large or wide a space is. For example: the size of this park is impressive「この公園の広さはすごい」(このこうえんのひろさはすごい). I was surprised by the size of the room「部屋の広さに驚いた」(へやのひろさにおどろいた). This word is commonly used when discussing physical spaces, such as rooms, parks, or land areas.

Radical

广

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

428

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

North

Reading

Parts

冫Ice (水)丨Stick 匕Spoon

Example Word

北: north. The Japanese noun '北 (きた)' means 'north'. It refers to the cardinal direction and is commonly used in geographical contexts, such as indicating a location or giving directions. For example: The wind is coming from the north「風が北から吹いている」(かぜがきたからふいている). Hokkaido is in the north of Japan「北海道は日本の北にある」(ほっかいどうはにほんのきたにある). The word can also be used metaphorically to describe something as being in a northern position relative to something else.

Radical

匕

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

434

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Run

Reading

Parts

龰Stop (止)土Soil

Example Word

走る: run. The Japanese verb '走る (はしる)' means 'to run'. It is used to describe the action of moving quickly on foot, typically faster than walking. This verb can be used in various contexts, such as running in a race, running away from something, or even metaphorically, like a river running through a valley. For example: I run every morning「私は毎朝走る」(わたしはまいあさはしる). The river runs through the valley「川が谷間を走る」(かわがたにまをはしる). It's important to note that '走る' can also be used in compound verbs, such as '駆け走る (かけはしる)' which means 'to dash' or 'to sprint'.

Radical

走

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

438

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Chirp

Reading

Parts

口Mouth 鳥Bird

Example Word

鳴る: ring. The Japanese verb '鳴る (なる)' primarily means 'to ring' or 'to sound'. It is used to describe the action of producing a sound, often in the context of bells, alarms, or other devices that emit sound. For example: the bell rang「ベルが鳴った」(べるがなった). The alarm clock is ringing「目覚まし時計が鳴っている」(めざましどけいがなっている). Additionally, '鳴る' can be used metaphorically to describe sounds in nature, such as thunder rumbling「雷が鳴る」(かみなりがなる). This verb is commonly used in everyday situations to indicate the occurrence of a sound.

Radical

鳥

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

442

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Sell

Reading

Parts

穴Hole 士Samurai

Example Word

売る: sell. The Japanese verb '売る (うる)' means 'to sell'. It is used when referring to the act of exchanging goods or services for money. This verb can be used in various contexts, such as selling items in a store, selling a car, or even selling an idea. For example: I will sell this book「この本を売ります」(このほんをうります). He sells vegetables at the market「彼は市場で野菜を売る」(かれはいちばでやさいをうる). The verb can also be used in its negative form to indicate not selling something, as in '売らない (うらない) (not sell)'. Additionally, it can be combined with other verbs to form compound verbs, such as '売り切れる (うりきれる) (to sell out)'.

Radical

士

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

463

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

City, Market

Reading

Parts

巾Towel 亠Lid

Example Word

市: city. The Japanese noun '市 (し)' means 'city'. It refers to a large and permanent human settlement, typically with a local government. This term is often used in the names of cities, such as '東京市 (とうきょうし)' (Tokyo City) or '大阪市 (おおさかし)' (Osaka City). Example sentences: I live in a city「私は市に住んでいます」(わたしはしにすんでいます). This city is very big「この市はとても大きい」(このしはとてもおおきい). Note that '市' can also be part of compound words, such as '市場 (いちば)' (market) or '市民 (しみん)' (citizen), but in these cases, it takes on a different meaning and reading.

Radical

巾

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

468

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Mix

Reading

Parts

亠Lid 父Father

Example Word

交通事故: accident. The Japanese noun '交通事故 (こうつうじこ)' refers to a 'traffic accident'. It is commonly used to describe incidents involving vehicles, such as cars, motorcycles, or bicycles, that result in damage, injury, or death. This term is often seen in news reports, legal contexts, or everyday conversations about road safety. For example: There was a traffic accident on the highway「高速道路で交通事故があった」(こうそくどうろでこうつうじこがあった). The traffic accident caused a major delay「その交通事故で大渋滞が起きた」(そのこうつうじこでだいじゅうたいがおきた). It is important to note that this term specifically refers to accidents involving vehicles and not other types of accidents.

Radical

亠

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

470

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Buy

Reading

Parts

罒Net 貝Shellfish

Example Word

買う: buy. The Japanese verb '買う (かう)' means 'to buy'. It is used when purchasing goods or services. This verb can be used in various contexts, such as shopping, acquiring something, or even metaphorically to mean 'to incur' (e.g., trouble). For example: I bought a book「本を買った」(ほんをかった). She bought a new car「彼女は新しい車を買った」(かのじょはあたらしいくるまをかった). Note that '買う' is often used with the particle 'を' to indicate the object being purchased.

Radical

貝

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

472

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Section, Department

Reading

Parts

禾Cereal 斗Ladle, Dipper

Example Word

科学: science. The Japanese noun '科学 (かがく)' means 'science'. It refers to the systematic study of the structure and behavior of the physical and natural world through observation and experiment. This term is commonly used in academic, professional, and everyday contexts to discuss scientific fields, research, or principles. For example: Science is important「科学は大切です」(かがくはたいせつです). He studies science「彼は科学を勉強しています」(かれはかがくをべんきょうしています). The word can also appear in compound terms like '科学者 (かがくしゃ)' (scientist) or '科学技術 (かがくぎじゅつ)' (science and technology).

Radical

禾

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

473

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Association, Group (of people)

Reading

Parts

糸Thread 且Moreover, Also

Example Word

組: group (of people) or class. The Japanese noun '組 (くみ)' primarily means 'group' or 'class'. It is commonly used to refer to a group of people, such as a team, class, or organization. For example: I belong to the soccer group「私はサッカーの組に所属しています」(わたしはサッカーのくみにしょぞくしています). This class is very active「この組はとても活発です」(このくみはとてもかっぱつです). Additionally, '組' can also refer to a pair or set of items, such as in 'a set of tools'「工具の組」(こうぐのくみ). The word is versatile and context-dependent, so its meaning can shift slightly based on usage.

Radical

糸

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

489

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Bird

Reading

Parts

勹Wrap 白White 灬Fire (火)一One

Example Word

鳥: bird. The Japanese noun '鳥 (とり)' means 'bird'. This word refers to any bird, whether wild or domesticated. It is commonly used in everyday conversation and can be found in various contexts, such as describing animals, nature, or even in idiomatic expressions. For example: I saw a bird in the park「公園で鳥を見た」(こうえんでとりをみた). Birds are singing「鳥が鳴いている」(とりがないている). The word '鳥' can also be used metaphorically or in compound words, such as '鳥居 (とりい)' (Shinto shrine gate), which resembles a bird's perch.

Radical

鳥

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

491

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

South

Reading

Parts

羊Sheep 十Ten 冂Enclosure

Example Word

南: south. The Japanese noun '南 (みなみ)' means 'south'. It refers to the cardinal direction and is commonly used in geographical contexts, such as describing locations, directions, or regions. For example: the wind is blowing from the south「南から風が吹いている」(みなみからかぜがふいている). The hotel is located in the south of the city「ホテルは街の南にあります」(ホテルはまちのみなみにあります). This word is straightforward and does not carry additional nuanced meanings beyond its directional sense.

Radical

十

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

493

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Line

Reading

Parts

糸Thread 泉Spring, Fountain

Example Word

線: line. The Japanese noun '線 (せん)' primarily means 'line'. It refers to a straight or curved continuous mark or path, such as a drawn line, a railway line, or a boundary line. It can also metaphorically represent a sequence or connection, such as a line of thought. Example sentences: Draw a straight line「まっすぐな線を引いて」(まっすぐなせんをひいて). The train is on the wrong line「電車が間違った線に乗っている」(でんしゃがまちがったせんにのっている). The line between right and wrong is sometimes unclear「正しいことと間違っていることの線は時には曖昧だ」(ただしいこととまちがっていることのせんはときにはあいまいだ).

Radical

糸

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

500

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Cloud

Reading

Parts

云Say 雨Rain

Example Word

雲: cloud. The Japanese noun '雲 (くも)' means 'cloud'. It refers to the visible mass of water droplets or ice crystals suspended in the atmosphere. This word is commonly used in weather-related contexts or to describe the sky. For example: There are many clouds in the sky「空に雲がたくさんある」(そらにくもがたくさんある). The clouds are white「雲は白い」(くもはしろい). It can also be used metaphorically to describe something vague or unclear, such as 'a cloud of doubt'「疑いの雲」(うたがいのくも).

Radical

雨

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

517

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Younger brother

Reading

Parts

丷Divide 丿Katakana no 丨Stick 弓Bow

Example Word

弟: younger brother. The Japanese noun '弟 (おとうと)' means 'younger brother'. It specifically refers to a male sibling who is younger than the speaker. This term is commonly used in family contexts and is neutral in tone. For example: my younger brother is kind「私の弟は優しい」(わたしのおとうとはやさしい). I have a younger brother「私は弟がいます」(わたしはおとうとがいます). Note that '弟' is used only for younger brothers; older brothers are referred to as '兄 (あに)'. The term does not change based on the speaker's gender.

Radical

弓

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

518

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Meat

Reading

Parts

人Person 内Inside

Example Word

牛肉: beef. The Japanese noun '牛肉 (ぎゅうにく)' refers to 'beef', which is the meat from cattle. This term is commonly used in culinary contexts, such as when ordering or discussing dishes that include beef. For example: I ate beef for dinner「夕食に牛肉を食べた」(ゆうしょくにぎゅうにくをたべた). This restaurant serves delicious beef「このレストランは美味しい牛肉を出す」(このレストランはおいしいぎゅうにくをだす). It's important to note that '牛肉' specifically refers to beef, distinguishing it from other types of meat like pork (豚肉, ぶたにく) or chicken (鶏肉, とりにく).

Radical

肉

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

522

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Autumn

Reading

Parts

禾Cereal 火Fire

Example Word

秋: autumn. The Japanese noun '秋 (あき)' means 'autumn' or 'fall'. It refers to the season between summer and winter, typically characterized by cooler weather and the changing colors of leaves. This word is commonly used in everyday conversation, poetry, and literature to evoke the imagery and feelings associated with autumn. For example: Autumn is the best season「秋が一番好きな季節です」(あきがいちばんすきなきせつです). The leaves turn red in autumn「秋には葉が赤くなります」(あきにははがあかくなります). In Japanese culture, autumn is also associated with harvest, moon viewing, and various seasonal foods.

Radical

禾

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

527

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Every

Reading

Parts

𠂉Person (人)毋Mother

Example Word

毎週: weekly. The Japanese noun '毎週 (まいしゅう)' means 'weekly'. It refers to something that occurs or is done every week. This word is commonly used to describe routines, schedules, or events that happen on a weekly basis. For example: I go to the gym weekly「毎週ジムに行きます」(まいしゅうジムにいきます). The meeting is held weekly「会議は毎週行われます」(かいぎはまいしゅうおこなわれます). It can also be used to specify the frequency of an action, as in '毎週のレッスン (まいしゅうのレッスン) (weekly lesson)'.

Radical

毋

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

529

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Round

Reading

Parts

九Nine 丶Dot

Example Word

丸で: completely. The Japanese adverb '丸で (まるで)' means 'completely' or 'entirely'. It is often used to emphasize that something is wholly or utterly a certain way, often in a figurative sense. It can also be used to draw comparisons, similar to the English phrase 'just like'. For example: It's completely different「丸で違う」(まるでちがう). It's just like a dream「丸で夢のようだ」(まるでゆめのようだ). The word can carry a nuance of surprise or exaggeration, depending on the context.

Radical

丶

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

545

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Hometown

Reading

Parts

土Soil 田Rice field

Example Word

里: village. The Japanese noun '里 (さと)' refers to a 'village' or a rural area, often contrasting with urban areas. It carries a sense of nostalgia and simplicity, evoking images of traditional Japanese countryside life. This word is commonly used in literature and poetry to depict idyllic rural settings. For example: I returned to my hometown village「私は里に帰りました」(わたしはさとかえりました). The village is surrounded by mountains「里は山に囲まれている」(さとはやまにかこまれている). Additionally, '里' can sometimes refer to a foster home or a place where someone is raised, as in '里親 (さとおや)' (foster parent).

Radical

里

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

556

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Rice

Reading

Parts

丷Divide 木Tree, Wood

Example Word

米: rice. The Japanese noun '米 (べい)' primarily refers to 'rice', which is a staple food in Japan. This term is often used in contexts related to agriculture, cooking, and daily meals. For example: I bought rice「米を買いました」(べいをかいました). Rice is essential in Japanese cuisine「米は日本料理に欠かせない」(べいはにほんりょうりにかかせない). It's important to note that '米' can also refer to uncooked rice, distinguishing it from 'ご飯 (ごはん)', which typically refers to cooked rice or a meal.

Radical

米

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

565

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Map

Reading

Parts

斗Ladle, Dipper 囗Box

Example Word

図書館: library. The Japanese noun '図書館 (としょかん)' refers to a 'library', a place where books, magazines, and other materials are kept for reading, studying, or borrowing. It is a common word used in everyday conversation and formal contexts. For example: I went to the library「図書館に行きました」(としょかんにいきました). The library is quiet「図書館は静かです」(としょかんはしずかです). This word is often used in combination with other words to specify the type of library, such as 'public library' (公立図書館, こうりつとしょかん) or 'university library' (大学図書館, だいがくとしょかん).

Radical

囗

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

576

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Fur

Reading

Parts

丿Katakana no 乇Depend

Example Word

毛布: blanket. The Japanese noun '毛布 (もうふ)' refers to a 'blanket'. It is commonly used to describe a thick, warm covering used on beds or for wrapping oneself in. This word is often used in everyday contexts, such as when discussing bedding or staying warm. Example sentences: I bought a new blanket「新しい毛布を買いました」(あたらしいもうふをかいました). This blanket is very warm「この毛布はとても暖かいです」(このもうふはとてもあたたかいです). The word '毛布' can also be used metaphorically to describe something that provides comfort or protection, though this usage is less common.

Radical

毛

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

602

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Sword

Reading

Parts

丿Katakana no 𠃌Enclosure

Example Word

刀: sword. The Japanese noun '刀 (かたな)' refers to a traditional Japanese sword, particularly the single-edged, curved blade used by samurai. It is a culturally significant weapon in Japan, often associated with the samurai class and martial arts. The term can also be used more broadly to refer to any type of sword, but it is most commonly associated with the katana. Example sentences: He owns a beautiful sword「彼は美しい刀を持っている」(かれはうつくしいかたなをもっている). The sword is sharp「その刀は鋭い」(そのかたなはするどい).

Radical

刀

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

603

Radical Form

刂

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Revolve, Times (counter for occurrences)

Reading

Parts

口Mouth

Example Word

回: times (counter for occurrences). The Japanese suffix '回 (かい)' is used to indicate the number of times an action occurs. It is commonly attached to numbers to express frequency or repetition. For example: three times「三回」(さんかい). I have been to Japan twice「日本に二回行ったことがある」(にほんにかいあったことがある). This suffix is versatile and can be used in various contexts to denote occurrences, such as in sports, events, or daily activities. It is important to note that '回' is often used in combination with verbs to specify how many times an action has been performed.

Radical

囗

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

613

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Picture

Reading

Parts

糸Thread 会Meet

Example Word

絵: picture. The Japanese noun '絵 (え)' means 'picture' or 'painting'. It refers to a visual representation, typically created through drawing, painting, or other artistic methods. This word is commonly used in contexts involving art, illustrations, or any form of visual depiction. For example: This is a beautiful picture「これは美しい絵です」(これはうつくしいえです). I like to draw pictures「絵を描くのが好きです」(えをかくのがすきです). The word can also be used metaphorically to describe a vivid mental image or scenario, as in '絵に描いたような美しさ (えにかいたようなうつくしさ)' meaning 'beauty as if painted in a picture'.

Radical

糸

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

615

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Feather

Reading

Parts

冫Ice (水)𠃌Enclosure

Example Word

羽根: feather. The Japanese noun '羽根 (はね)' primarily means 'feather'. It refers to the natural growth on birds that helps them fly. This word can also be used metaphorically or in various contexts, such as in traditional Japanese games or decorations. Example sentences: The bird has beautiful feathers「その鳥は美しい羽根を持っている」(そのとりはうつくしいはねをもっている). I found a feather on the ground「地面に羽根を見つけた」(じめんにはねをみつけた). Note that '羽根' can sometimes refer to the vanes of a shuttlecock in games like badminton, but the primary meaning remains 'feather'.

Radical

羽

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

624

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Arrow

Reading

Parts

𠂉Person (人)大Big

Example Word

矢張り: still or as expected. The Japanese adverb '矢張り (やはり)' can mean 'still' or 'as expected'. It is often used to express that something remains unchanged or that a situation has turned out as one anticipated. This word can convey a sense of inevitability or confirmation of one's expectations. For example: I thought it would rain, and sure enough, it did「雨が降ると思ったら、やはり降った」(あめがふるとおもったら、やはりふった). Even after all these years, he is still the same「何年たっても、彼はやはり変わらない」(なんねんたっても、かれはやはりかわらない). '矢張り' is commonly used in both casual and formal contexts to emphasize that something is consistent with what was previously thought or known.

Radical

矢

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

637

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Weak

Reading

Parts

冫Ice (水)弓Bow

Example Word

弱い: weak. The Japanese adjective '弱い (よわい)' means 'weak'. It is used to describe a lack of physical strength, emotional resilience, or even the intensity of something like light or flavor. For example: he is weak「彼は弱い」(かれはよわい). This tea is weak「このお茶は弱い」(このおちゃはよわい). It can also describe vulnerability or susceptibility, as in 'weak to colds'「風邪に弱い」(かぜによわい). The adjective is versatile and can be applied to both tangible and intangible concepts.

Radical

弓

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

643

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Summer

Reading

Parts

𦣻Neck (首)夂Late

Example Word

夏: summer. The Japanese noun '夏 (なつ)' means 'summer'. It refers to the hottest season of the year, typically associated with warm weather, vacations, and festivals in Japan. This word is commonly used in daily conversations, literature, and media to describe the season or events occurring during this time. For example: I love summer「夏が大好きです」(なつがだいすきです). Summer in Japan is hot「日本の夏は暑い」(にほんのなつはあつい). The word can also be used in compound nouns, such as '夏休み (なつやすみ)' (summer vacation) or '夏祭り (なつまつり)' (summer festival).

Radical

夊

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

654

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Boulder

Reading

Parts

山Mountain 石Stone

Example Word

岩: rock. The Japanese noun '岩 (いわ)' means 'rock'. It refers to a large, solid mass of stone or mineral material. This word is commonly used to describe natural rock formations, such as cliffs, boulders, or large stones. For example: There is a big rock in the river「川に大きな岩がある」(かわにおおきないわがある). The climber stood on the rock「クライマーは岩の上に立った」(クライマーはいわのうえにたった). The word can also be used metaphorically to describe something solid or unyielding, like a person's resolve.

Radical

山

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

669

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Older sister

Reading

Parts

女Woman 市City, Market

Example Word

お姉さん: older sister. The Japanese noun 'お姉さん (おねえさん)' refers to an 'older sister'. It is a polite and respectful term used to address or refer to one's own older sister or someone else's older sister. It is commonly used in both family and social contexts. For example: My older sister is kind「私のお姉さんは優しい」(わたしのおねえさんはやさしい). Is that your older sister?「あの人はあなたのお姉さんですか？」(あのひとはあなたのおねえさんですか？). The term can also be used more broadly to address young women politely, similar to 'miss' in English, especially in customer service settings. For example: Excuse me, miss「すみません、お姉さん」(すみません、おねえさん).

Radical

女

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

695

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Yellow

Reading

Parts

由Reason 八Eight 艹Grass 一One

Example Word

黄色: yellow. The Japanese noun '黄色 (きいろ)' means 'yellow'. It refers to the color yellow and is commonly used to describe objects, items, or anything that has a yellow hue. For example: The sunflower is yellow「ひまわりは黄色です」(ひまわりはきいろです). I like yellow flowers「黄色い花が好きです」(きいろいはながすきです). Note that when used as an adjective, it often takes the form '黄色い (きいろい)' to describe nouns, such as '黄色い車 (きいろいくるま) (yellow car)'.

Radical

黃

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

699

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Star

Reading

Parts

生Life 日Day, Sun

Example Word

星: star. The Japanese noun '星 (ほし)' means 'star'. It refers to celestial bodies visible in the night sky, such as stars in space. It can also be used metaphorically to describe someone who is a 'star' in the sense of being famous or outstanding. For example: The stars are beautiful tonight「今夜の星はきれいだ」(こんやのほしはきれいだ). She is a star in the music industry「彼女は音楽界の星だ」(かのじょはおんがくかいのほしだ). The word is commonly used in both literal and figurative contexts.

Radical

日

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

721

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Fish

Reading

Parts

田Rice field ⺈Wrap 灬Fire (火)

Example Word

魚: fish. The Japanese noun '魚 (さかな)' means 'fish'. This word refers to the aquatic animal, and it is commonly used in everyday conversation, cooking, and biology. It can refer to fish in general or specific types of fish, depending on the context. For example: I like fish「魚が好きです」(さかながすきです). This fish is delicious「この魚は美味しい」(このさかなはおいしい). When used in compound words, it often retains its meaning, such as in '魚市場 (さかないちば)' (fish market). Note that '魚' can also be read as 'うお' in certain contexts, but 'さかな' is the more common reading in modern Japanese.

Radical

魚

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

751

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Noon

Reading

Parts

𠂉Person (人)十Ten

Example Word

午後: afternoon. The Japanese noun '午後 (ごご)' refers to the time period of the 'afternoon'. It is commonly used to indicate the time of day from around 12:00 PM (noon) until evening, typically around 5:00 PM or 6:00 PM. This word is often used in schedules, appointments, or when specifying time. For example: I have a meeting in the afternoon「午後に会議があります」(ごごにかいぎがあります). Let's meet at 3 PM in the afternoon「午後3時に会いましょう」(ごごさんじにあいましょう). Note that '午後' is often paired with specific times, such as '午後2時 (ごごにじ)' for 2:00 PM.

Radical

十

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

753

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Garden

Reading

Parts

衣Clothes 口Mouth 土Soil

Example Word

園: garden. The Japanese noun '園 (その)' primarily means 'garden'. It refers to a cultivated area of land, often used for growing plants, flowers, or vegetables. This word can also be used in compound words to denote specific types of gardens or parks, such as '動物園 (どうぶつえん)' (zoo) or '幼稚園 (ようちえん)' (kindergarten). Example sentences: The garden is beautiful「その園は美しい」(そのそのはうつくしい). I went to the zoo「動物園に行った」(どうぶつえんにいった).

Radical

囗

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

754

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Clear

Reading

Parts

青Blue 日Day, Sun

Example Word

晴れ: clear or sunny. The Japanese noun '晴れ (はれ)' primarily refers to clear or sunny weather. It is used to describe a state of the sky when there are no clouds, and the sun is shining brightly. This word can also be used metaphorically to describe a person's mood or a situation that is bright and cheerful. For example: Today is clear「今日は晴れです」(きょうははれです). The weather forecast says it will be sunny tomorrow「天気予報では明日は晴れだそうです」(てんきよほうではあしたははれだそうです). It's important to note that '晴れ' is often used in weather forecasts and everyday conversations about the weather.

Radical

日

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

771

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Younger sister

Reading

Parts

女Woman 未Not yet

Example Word

妹: younger sister. The Japanese noun '妹 (いもうと)' specifically refers to a younger sister. It is used to describe a female sibling who is younger than the speaker. This term is commonly used in family contexts and is gender-specific. For example: my younger sister is kind「私の妹は優しい」(わたしのいもうとはやさしい). I have a younger sister「私は妹がいます」(わたしはいもうとがいます). Note that '妹' is only used for younger sisters; for older sisters, the term '姉 (あね)' is used.

Radical

女

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

794

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Winter

Reading

Parts

冫Ice (水)夂Late

Example Word

冬休み: winter vacation. The Japanese noun '冬休み (ふゆやすみ)' refers to a 'winter vacation' or 'winter break'. This term is commonly used to describe the holiday period during winter, especially in schools and workplaces. It typically occurs around late December to early January, coinciding with the New Year holidays in Japan. For example: I will go skiing during winter vacation「冬休みにスキーに行きます」(ふゆやすみにスキーにいきます). Winter vacation is a time to relax「冬休みはリラックスする時間です」(ふゆやすみはリラックスするじかんです). The term is often associated with family gatherings, travel, and seasonal activities.

Radical

冫

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

817

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Cow

Reading

Parts

𠂉Person (人)十Ten

Example Word

牛肉: beef. The Japanese noun '牛肉 (ぎゅうにく)' refers to 'beef', which is the meat from cattle. This term is commonly used in culinary contexts, such as when ordering or discussing dishes that include beef. For example: I ate beef for dinner「夕食に牛肉を食べた」(ゆうしょくにぎゅうにくをたべた). This restaurant serves delicious beef「このレストランは美味しい牛肉を出す」(このレストランはおいしいぎゅうにくをだす). It's important to note that '牛肉' specifically refers to beef, distinguishing it from other types of meat like pork (豚肉, ぶたにく) or chicken (鶏肉, とりにく).

Radical

牛

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

821

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Daytime, Noon

Reading

Parts

旦Dawn 尺Foot (measure)

Example Word

昼休み: lunch break. The Japanese noun '昼休み (ひるやすみ)' refers to a 'lunch break' or 'midday break'. It is commonly used to describe the break time during the day, typically around noon, when people take a pause from work or school to eat lunch and rest. This term is widely used in both professional and educational settings. For example: I will go to the park during lunch break「昼休みに公園に行きます」(ひるやすみにこうえんにいきます). Let's meet at the cafeteria during the lunch break「昼休みにカフェテリアで会いましょう」(ひるやすみにカフェテリアであいましょう).

Radical

日

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

823

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Pond

Reading

Parts

氵Water (水)也To be

Example Word

池: pond. The Japanese noun '池 (いけ)' refers to a 'pond', which is a small body of still water. This word is commonly used to describe natural or artificial ponds found in gardens, parks, or rural areas. It can also be used metaphorically in certain contexts. For example: There is a pond in the park「公園に池がある」(こうえんにいけがある). The koi fish swim in the pond「鯉が池で泳いでいる」(こいがいけでおよいでいる). The word '池' is often associated with tranquility and nature in Japanese culture.

Radical

水

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

881

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Talent, Age (counter)

Reading

Parts

丿Katakana no 亅Barb 一One

Example Word

才能: talent. The Japanese noun '才能 (さいのう)' refers to a natural ability or talent that someone possesses. It is often used to describe innate skills or aptitudes in various fields such as arts, sports, or academics. For example: She has a talent for painting「彼女は絵を描く才能がある」(かのじょはえをかくさいのうがある). His talent in music is remarkable「彼の音楽の才能は素晴らしい」(かれのおんがくのさいのうはすばらしい). The word can also be used in a broader sense to describe potential or capability in a particular area.

Radical

手

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

916

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Steam

Reading

Parts

氵Water (水)气Air

Example Word

汽車: steam train. The Japanese noun '汽車 (きしゃ)' refers to a 'steam train'. This word is often used to describe old-fashioned trains powered by steam engines, which were common in Japan during the early to mid-20th century. It evokes a sense of nostalgia and is frequently used in literature, songs, and historical contexts. For example: The steam train is coming「汽車が来る」(きしゃがくる). I saw a steam train at the museum「博物館で汽車を見た」(はくぶつかんできしゃをみた). Note that while modern trains are referred to as '電車 (でんしゃ)', '汽車' specifically refers to steam-powered trains.

Radical

水

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

979

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Weekday

Reading

Parts

翟Surname 日Day, Sun

Example Word

曜日: day. The Japanese noun '曜日 (ようび)' refers to the days of the week. It is commonly used to specify or inquire about a particular day, such as Monday, Tuesday, etc. For example: What day is it today?「今日は何曜日ですか？」(きょうはなんようびですか？). Monday is the first day of the week「月曜日は週の最初の日です」(げつようびはしゅうのさいしょのひです). The word '曜日' is often preceded by the specific day's name, like '月曜日 (げつようび)' for Monday, '火曜日 (かようび)' for Tuesday, and so on.

Radical

日

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

1007

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Calculate

Reading

Parts

目Eye ⺮Bamboo (竹)廾Twenty

Example Word

計算: calculation. The Japanese verbal noun '計算 (けいさん)' means 'calculation'. It refers to the process of performing mathematical operations, such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division. It can also be used metaphorically to describe planning or estimating outcomes. For example: I did the calculation「計算をしました」(けいさんをしました). The calculation was correct「計算は正しかった」(けいさんはただしかった). This word is often used in contexts involving math, finance, or strategic planning.

Radical

竹

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

1109

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Week

Reading

Parts

⻌Walk 周Circumference

Example Word

今週: this week. The Japanese noun '今週 (こんしゅう)' means 'this week'. It refers to the current week, starting from Sunday and ending on Saturday. This word is commonly used in daily conversations and formal settings to discuss events, schedules, or plans occurring within the current week. For example: I have a meeting this week「今週会議があります」(こんしゅうかいぎがあります). This week's weather is nice「今週の天気はいいです」(こんしゅうのてんきはいいです). It is important to note that '今週' is often used with time-related expressions, such as '今週中 (こんしゅうじゅう)' meaning 'within this week'.

Radical

辵

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

1241

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Wheat

Reading

Parts

生Life 夂Late

Example Word

小麦: wheat. The Japanese noun '小麦 (こむぎ)' refers to 'wheat', the grain used to make flour, bread, and other food products. It is a staple ingredient in many cuisines and is commonly used in Japan for making udon noodles, bread, and pastries. Example sentences: Wheat is grown in this region「この地域では小麦が栽培されている」(このちいきではこむぎがさいばいされている). Bread is made from wheat「パンは小麦から作られる」(パンはこむぎからつくられる). The word is often used in agricultural or culinary contexts.

Radical

麥

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

1329

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Bow

Reading

Parts

コKatakana ko ㇉Bent hook

Radical

弓

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

1402

Handwriting