Page 1
kanji
吉Meaning
Lucky, Good luck
Reading
kunyomiよしyoshi
onyomiきつkitsu
きちkichi
Parts
士Samurai 口Mouth
Example Word
吉: luck. The Japanese noun '吉 (きち)' primarily means 'luck' or 'good fortune'. It is often used in contexts related to auspiciousness or favorable outcomes. This term is commonly seen in traditional settings, such as in fortune-telling (omikuji) or in names of places and people to convey a sense of prosperity. For example: This is a lucky day「今日は吉の日だ」(きょうはきちのひだ). The fortune slip says good luck「おみくじは吉と言っている」(おみくじはきちといっている). Note that '吉' can also appear in compound words or names, where it retains its connotation of positivity and good fortune.
Radical
口
Stroke Count
6JLPT
N1Grade
8Frequency
175
Handwriting
kanji
如Meaning
As, Likeness
Reading
kunyomiごとgoto
onyomiじょjo
にょnyo
Parts
女Woman 口Mouth
Example Word
如何に: how. The Japanese adverb '如何に (いかに)' means 'how' and is used to inquire about the manner, degree, or extent of something. It often carries a formal or literary tone and is commonly used in written language or formal speech. For example: How did you solve the problem?「如何にその問題を解決しましたか?」(いかにそのもんだいをかいけつしましたか?). How important is this decision?「如何にこの決定が重要ですか?」(いかにこのけっていがじゅうようですか?). This adverb can also be used to express surprise or emphasis, as in 'How amazing!「如何に素晴らしい!」(いかにすばらしい!)'.
Radical
女
Stroke Count
6JLPT
N1Grade
8Frequency
217
Handwriting
kanji
又Meaning
Again
Reading
kunyomiまたmata
onyomiまたmata
Example Word
又: again or also. The Japanese adverb '又 (また)' has two primary meanings: 'again' and 'also'. When used to mean 'again', it indicates repetition or recurrence of an action or event. For example: I will visit Japan again「また日本を訪れます」(またにほんをおとずれます). When used to mean 'also', it adds information or indicates an additional item or action. For example: He is also a teacher「彼はまた先生です」(かれはまたせんせいです). The nuance of 'また' can vary depending on context, but it generally conveys a sense of addition or repetition. It is commonly used in both casual and formal settings.
Radical
又
Stroke Count
2JLPT
N1Grade
8Frequency
247
Handwriting
kanji
掛Meaning
Set, Hang
Reading
kunyomiかka
かかりkakari
onyomiがいgai
Parts
扌Hand (手)圭 卜Divination
Example Word
話し掛ける: address. The Japanese verb '話し掛ける (はなしかける)' means 'to address' or 'to start a conversation with someone'. It is used when someone initiates a conversation or speaks to another person, often to get their attention or to begin a dialogue. This verb implies an action of reaching out verbally to someone. For example: She addressed the stranger「彼女は見知らぬ人に話し掛けた」(かのじょはみしらぬひとにはなしかけた). He started a conversation with his colleague「彼は同僚に話し掛けた」(かれはどうりょうにはなしかけた). The verb can be used in various contexts, from casual to formal, depending on the situation and the relationship between the speakers.
Radical
手
Stroke Count
11JLPT
N3Grade
8Frequency
379
Handwriting
kanji
怪Meaning
Weird, Suspicious
Reading
kunyomiあやaya
onyomiけke
かいkai
Parts
忄 圣Holy
Example Word
怪しい: suspicious. The Japanese adjective '怪しい (あやしい)' primarily means 'suspicious'. It is used to describe something or someone that seems dubious, questionable, or not entirely trustworthy. This can apply to situations, objects, or people. For example: That person looks suspicious「あの人は怪しい」(あのひとはあやしい). The story sounds suspicious「その話は怪しい」(そのはなしはあやしい). Additionally, '怪しい' can sometimes imply a sense of mystery or the supernatural, as in: The old house looks eerie「その古い家は怪しい」(そのふるいいえはあやしい). The nuance of the word can vary depending on context, but it generally conveys a sense of doubt or unease.
Radical
心
Stroke Count
8JLPT
N1Grade
8Frequency
455
Handwriting
kanji
房Meaning
Tassel, Chamber
Reading
kunyomiふさfusa
onyomiぼうbou
Parts
戸Door 方Direction
Example Word
暖房: heating. The Japanese verbal noun '暖房 (だんぼう)' refers to 'heating' or a 'heating system'. It is commonly used to describe the act of heating a space or the equipment used to provide warmth, such as heaters or central heating systems. This term is often used in contexts related to home appliances, buildings, or climate control. For example: The heating is on「暖房がついている」(だんぼうがついている). Please turn on the heating「暖房をつけてください」(だんぼうをつけてください). It is important to note that '暖房' specifically refers to heating and is distinct from '冷房 (れいぼう)', which means 'cooling' or 'air conditioning'.
Radical
戶
Stroke Count
8JLPT
N1Grade
8Frequency
577
Handwriting
kanji
伸Meaning
Stretch
Reading
kunyomiのno
onyomiしんshin
Parts
亻Person (人)申Report
Example Word
伸びる: stretch or grow. The Japanese verb '伸びる (のびる)' has two primary meanings. The first is 'to stretch', which refers to the physical act of extending something, such as a rubber band or one's body. For example: the rubber band stretched「ゴムが伸びた」(ゴムがのびた). The second meaning is 'to grow', which can refer to physical growth, such as a plant or a child, or abstract growth, such as skills or profits. For example: the plant grew「植物が伸びた」(しょくぶつがのびた). This verb is often used in contexts where something extends or increases over time. Note that the nuance of 'stretch' is more about physical extension, while 'grow' implies development or increase.
Radical
人
Stroke Count
7JLPT
N2Grade
8Frequency
680
Handwriting
kanji
魔Meaning
Witch, Demon
Reading
onyomiまma
Parts
麻Hemp, Numb 鬼Demon, Ogre
Example Word
邪魔: hindrance or intrusion. The Japanese adjectival noun '邪魔 (じゃま)' primarily means 'hindrance' or 'intrusion'. It is used to describe something or someone that obstructs, interferes, or gets in the way of an activity or situation. For example: Sorry for being a hindrance「邪魔してすみません」(じゃましてすみません). Don't disturb me now「今邪魔しないで」(いまじゃましないで). The word can also be used to describe physical obstructions, such as objects blocking a path, or metaphorical ones, like distractions. It is commonly used in polite expressions to apologize for interrupting or inconveniencing someone.
Radical
鬼
Stroke Count
21JLPT
N1Grade
8Frequency
691
Handwriting
kanji
甲Meaning
Armor, Shell
Reading
kunyomiかka
onyomiこうkou
かんkan
Parts
田Rice field |
Example Word
甲: shell or first. The Japanese noun '甲 (こう)' has two distinct meanings. The first meaning refers to the shell of a turtle or tortoise, often used in traditional contexts or literature. For example: the turtle's shell is hard「亀の甲は硬い」(かめのこうはかたい). The second meaning is 'first' in a sequence, such as in the traditional ordering system (甲, 乙, 丙, etc.), which is similar to 'A, B, C' in English. For example: this is the first item「これは甲の項目です」(これはこうのこうもくです). The word is also used in compound words like '甲羅 (こ うら)' (shell) or '甲乙 (こうおつ)' (first and second).
Radical
田
Stroke Count
5JLPT
N1Grade
8Frequency
696
Handwriting
kanji
婆Meaning
Old woman
Reading
kunyomiばあbaa
onyomiばba
Parts
波Wave 女Woman
Example Word
婆さん: old woman or grandmother. The Japanese noun '婆さん (ばあさん)' can refer to one's grandmother or, more generally, an elderly woman. It is a colloquial term and can be used affectionately or neutrally, depending on the context. For example: my grandmother is kind「私の婆さんは優しい」(わたしのばあさんはやさしい). That old woman is walking slowly「あの婆さんはゆっくり歩いている」(あのばあさんはゆっくりあるいている). Note that while it can be affectionate, it may also carry a slightly informal or rustic tone, so it's important to consider the relationship and setting when using it.
Radical
女
Stroke Count
11JLPT
N1Grade
8Frequency
762
Handwriting
kanji
聴Meaning
Listen
Reading
kunyomiきki
onyomiちょうchou
Parts
耳Ear 十Ten 罒Net 心Heart
Example Word
視聴: viewing. The Japanese noun '視聴 (しちょう)' refers to the act of watching or viewing something, often used in the context of media such as TV programs, videos, or broadcasts. It can also imply listening, especially in contexts where both visual and auditory elements are involved. For example: The viewing rate of the program was high「その番組の視聴率は高かった」(そのばんぐみのしちょうりつはたかかった). I watched the live broadcast「生放送を視聴した」(なまほうそうをしちょうした). This term is commonly used in discussions about media consumption and audience metrics.
Radical
耳
Stroke Count
17JLPT
N1Grade
8Frequency
802
Handwriting
kanji
霊Meaning
Spirits
Reading
kunyomiたまtama
onyomiりょうryou
れいrei
Parts
⻗ 一One 亚
Example Word
霊: spirit. The Japanese noun '霊 (れい)' refers to a 'spirit' or 'soul', often in a supernatural or religious context. It can denote the spirit of a deceased person, a ghost, or a spiritual entity. This word is commonly used in discussions about the afterlife, folklore, or spiritual practices. For example: the spirit of the deceased「亡くなった人の霊」(なくなったひとのれい). She believes in spirits「彼女は霊を信じている」(かのじょはれいをしんじている). It can also appear in compound words like '霊感 (れいかん)' (spiritual intuition) or '霊界 (れいかい)' (spirit world). Note that '霊' carries a nuanced, often mystical connotation and is distinct from more casual terms like '幽霊 (ゆうれい)' (ghost).
Radical
雨
Stroke Count
15JLPT
N1Grade
8Frequency
808
Handwriting
kanji
奉Meaning
Dedicate, Observance
Reading
kunyomiまつmatsu
たてまつtatematsu
ほうhou
onyomiほうhou
ぶbu
Example Word
奉行: magistrate. The Japanese noun '奉行 (ぶぎょう)' refers to a magistrate or a high-ranking official in feudal Japan, typically responsible for administrative or judicial duties. This term is historically significant and often associated with the Edo period, where such officials played crucial roles in governance. For example: The magistrate issued a new decree「奉行が新しい法令を出した」(ぶぎょうがあたらしいほうれいをだした). The magistrate's decision was final「奉行の決定は最終的だった」(ぶぎょうのけっていはさいしゅうてきだった). It's important to note that this term is largely historical and may not be commonly used in modern contexts, except when referring to historical settings or figures.
Radical
大
Stroke Count
8JLPT
N1Grade
8Frequency
813
Handwriting
kanji
酔Meaning
Drunk
Reading
kunyomiよyo
onyomiすいsui
Parts
酉Bird of the zodiac 卆
Example Word
酔っ払い: drunk. The Japanese noun '酔っ払い (よっぱらい)' refers to a person who is drunk or intoxicated. It is often used in a casual or slightly humorous context to describe someone who has consumed too much alcohol. For example: That drunk is sleeping on the bench「あの酔っ払いはベンチで寝ている」(あのよっぱらいはベンチでねている). I saw a drunk walking unsteadily「酔っ払いがふらふら歩いているのを見た」(よっぱらいがふらふらあるいているのをみた). The term can carry a slightly negative connotation, depending on the context, but it is generally not overly harsh.
Radical
酉
Stroke Count
11JLPT
N1Grade
8Frequency
829
Handwriting
kanji
滅Meaning
Ruin, Destroy
Reading
kunyomiほろhoro
onyomiめつmetsu
Parts
氵Water (水)烕
Example Word
滅びる: perish. The Japanese verb '滅びる (ほろびる)' means 'to perish' or 'to be destroyed'. It is used to describe the complete destruction or downfall of something, such as a civilization, a kingdom, or even an idea. This verb carries a sense of finality and often implies a tragic or irreversible end. For example: The ancient civilization perished「古代文明は滅びた」(こだいぶんめいはほろびた). If we don't act, humanity will perish「行動しなければ、人類は滅びる」(こうどうしなければ、じんるいはほろびる). The verb can also be used metaphorically, such as when describing the end of a dream or hope.
Radical
水
Stroke Count
13JLPT
N1Grade
8Frequency
839
Handwriting
kanji
浪Meaning
Wander, Billow
Reading
onyomiろうrou
Parts
氵Water (水)良Good
Example Word
浪人: ronin or masterless. The Japanese noun '浪人 (ろうにん)' primarily refers to a 'ronin', which historically denotes a samurai without a master or lord during the feudal period in Japan. This term is also used metaphorically in modern contexts to describe someone who is unemployed or has not yet entered a university after failing entrance exams. For example: He became a ronin after his master died「彼は主人が亡くなった後、浪人になった」(かれはしゅじんがなくなったあと、ろうにんになった). Many students become ronin after failing their exams「多くの学生が試験に失敗した後、浪人になる」(おおくのがくせいがしけんにしっぱいしたあと、ろうにんになる). The term carries a connotation of being in a transitional or uncertain state, often with a sense of striving for a new beginning or goal.
Radical
水
Stroke Count
10JLPT
N1Grade
8Frequency
852
Handwriting
kanji
殊Meaning
Special, Especially
Reading
kunyomiことkoto
onyomiしゅshu
Parts
歹Bad 朱Vermillion
Example Word
特殊: special or unique. The Japanese adjective '特殊 (とくしゅ)' means 'special' or 'unique'. It is used to describe something that is distinct, uncommon, or out of the ordinary. This word often carries a nuance of being different from the norm or having specific characteristics that set it apart. For example: This is a special case「これは特殊なケースです」(これはとくしゅなケースです). He has a unique ability「彼は特殊な能力を持っている」(かれはとくしゅなのうりょくをもっている). Note that '特殊' is often used in formal or technical contexts, such as in science, technology, or law, to describe something that is not typical or standard.
Radical
歹
Stroke Count
10JLPT
N1Grade
8Frequency
854
Handwriting
kanji
哲Meaning
Sagacious, Philosophy
Reading
onyomiてつtetsu
Parts
折Bend, Fold 口Mouth
Example Word
哲学: philosophy. The Japanese noun '哲学 (てつがく)' means 'philosophy'. It refers to the study of fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, values, reason, and more. This term is often used in academic or intellectual contexts. For example: He studies philosophy「彼は哲学を勉強している」(かれはてつがくをべんきょうしている). The philosophy of life is complex「人生の哲学は複雑だ」(じんせいのてつがくはふくざつだ). The word can also be used metaphorically to describe someone's personal beliefs or approach to life, as in '彼の哲学はユニークだ (かれのてつがくはユニークだ) (His philosophy is unique).'
Radical
口
Stroke Count
10JLPT
N1Grade
8Frequency
888
Handwriting
kanji
既Meaning
Already, Previously
Reading
kunyomiすでsude
onyomiきki
Parts
牙Fang, Tusk 艮Stopping
Example Word
既存: existing. The Japanese noun '既存 (きそん)' means 'existing'. It refers to something that already exists or is already in place, often used in contexts like systems, structures, or conditions. For example: The existing system needs improvement「既存のシステムは改善が必要です」(きそんのシステムはかいぜんがひつようです). We must consider existing conditions「既存の条件を考慮しなければなりません」(きそんのじょうけんをこうりょしなければなりません). This word is commonly used in formal or technical contexts to describe pre-existing states or frameworks.
Radical
无
Stroke Count
10JLPT
N1Grade
8Frequency
891
Handwriting
kanji
伏Meaning
Prostrated
Reading
kunyomiふfu
onyomiふくfuku
Parts
亻Person (人)犬Dog
Example Word
伏せる: hide or lay. The Japanese verb '伏せる (ふせる)' has two primary meanings. The first meaning is 'to lay something down' or 'to place something face down'. For example: he laid the book face down「彼は本を伏せた」(かれはほんをふせた). The second meaning is 'to hide' or 'to conceal', often used in contexts where something is intentionally kept out of sight. For example: she hid her face in her hands「彼女は顔を手で伏せた」(かのじょはかおをてでふせた). This verb is versatile and can be used in both literal and figurative contexts, depending on the situation.
Radical
人
Stroke Count
6JLPT
N1Grade
8Frequency
892
Handwriting
kanji
魂Meaning
Spirit, Soul
Reading
kunyomiたましいtamashii
onyomiこんkon
Parts
鬼Demon, Ogre 云Say
Example Word
魂: soul. The Japanese noun '魂 (たましい)' refers to the 'soul' or 'spirit' of a living being. It is often used in a spiritual or philosophical context to describe the essence of a person or creature that transcends physical existence. This word can also imply the core of one's emotions, will, or vitality. For example: Her soul is pure「彼女の魂は純粋だ」(かのじょのたましいはじゅんすいだ). The warrior's spirit never dies「戦士の魂は決して死なない」(せんしのたましいはけっしてしなない). The word can also be used metaphorically to describe the essence or spirit of something non-living, such as art or culture.
Radical
鬼
Stroke Count
14JLPT
N1Grade
8Frequency
895
Handwriting
kanji
哀Meaning
Pity, Sorrow
Reading
kunyomiあわawa
onyomiあいai
Parts
衣Clothes 亠Lid 口Mouth
Example Word
哀れ: pity. The Japanese noun '哀れ (あわれ)' conveys a sense of 'pity' or 'compassion'. It is often used to express a deep feeling of sorrow or sympathy towards someone or something, typically in a situation that evokes a sense of tragedy or helplessness. This word can also carry a poetic or literary nuance, often found in traditional Japanese literature and drama. For example: I felt pity for the stray dog「哀れな野良犬に同情した」(あわれなのらいぬにどうじょうした). The story was filled with pity and sorrow「その物語は哀れと悲しみに満ちていた」(そのものがたりはあわれとかなしみにみちていた).
Radical
口
Stroke Count
9JLPT
N1Grade
8Frequency
901
Handwriting
kanji
了Meaning
Finish, Complete
Reading
onyomiりょうryou
Example Word
終了: end. The Japanese verbal noun '終了 (しゅうりょう)' means 'end' or 'completion'. It is used to indicate the conclusion or termination of an event, process, or activity. This word is often used in formal or technical contexts, such as the end of a program, meeting, or task. For example: The meeting has ended「会議が終了 しました」(かいぎがしゅうりょうしました). The program will end at 5 PM「プログラムは午後5時に終了します」(プログラムはごご5じにしゅうりょうします). It can also be used in everyday situations, such as the end of a game or event. For example: The game is over「ゲームが終了しました」(ゲームがしゅうりょうしました).
Radical
亅
Stroke Count
2JLPT
N2Grade
8Frequency
902
Handwriting
kanji
帝Meaning
Emperor, Sovereign
Reading
kunyomiみかどmikado
onyomiていtei
Parts
亠Lid 丷Divide 冖Crown 巾Towel
Example Word
皇帝: emperor. The Japanese noun '皇帝 (こうてい)' refers to an 'emperor', specifically a sovereign ruler of an empire. This term is often used in historical or formal contexts to describe the supreme monarch of a large territory or empire. For example: The emperor ruled the vast empire「皇帝は広大な帝国を治めた」(こうていはこうだいなていこくをおさめた). The emperor's palace was magnificent「皇帝の宮殿は壮大だった」(こうていのきゅうでんはそうだいだった). In modern usage, it is less common but still appears in historical discussions or titles, such as 'Roman Emperor'「ローマ皇帝」(ろーまこうてい).
Radical
巾
Stroke Count
9JLPT
N1Grade
8Frequency
922
Handwriting
kanji
邪Meaning
Wicked
Reading
kunyomiよこしyokoshi
onyomiじゃja
Parts
牙Fang, Tusk ⻏Mound (阜)
Example Word
風邪: cold. The Japanese noun '風邪 (かぜ)' refers to the common cold, an illness characterized by symptoms like coughing, sneezing, and a runny nose. It is a common term used in everyday conversation when discussing health. For example: I caught a cold「風邪を引いた」(かぜをひいた). Don't catch a cold「風邪を引かないで」(かぜをひかないで). This word is often used in phrases like '風邪を引く (かぜをひく)' (to catch a cold) or '風邪薬 (かぜぐすり)' (cold medicine).
Radical
邑
Stroke Count
8JLPT
N1Grade
8Frequency
928
Handwriting
kanji
暫Meaning
A while, Temporarily
Reading
kunyomiしばらshibara
onyomiざんzan
Parts
日Day, Sun 斬Slice
Example Word
暫く: awhile. The Japanese adverb '暫く (しばらく)' means 'awhile' or 'for a short time'. It is used to indicate a period of time that is not very long, but not necessarily specified. This word can be used in various contexts, such as waiting, not seeing someone for some time, or taking a break. For example: I haven't seen you for awhile「暫く会っていないね」(しばらくあっていないね). Let's rest for awhile「暫く休みましょう」(しばらくやすみましょう). It can also imply a sense of anticipation or preparation for something that will happen after this short period, as in '暫くお待ちください (しばらくおまちください) (Please wait for a moment).'
Radical
日
Stroke Count
15JLPT
N1Grade
8Frequency
943
Handwriting
kanji
伴Meaning
Accompany, Companion
Reading
kunyomiともなtomona
onyomiばんban
はんhan
Parts
亻Person (人)半Half
Example Word
伴う: accompany. The Japanese verb '伴う (ともなう)' primarily means 'to accompany' or 'to go along with'. It is often used to describe situations where one thing naturally follows or is associated with another. This verb can be used in both literal and figurative contexts. For example: success often accompanies hard work「成功はしばしば努力を伴う」(せいこうはしばしばどりょくをともなう). The storm was accompanied by strong winds「嵐は強い風を伴っていた」(あらしはつよいかぜをともなっていた). It's important to note that '伴う' can also imply a sense of inevitability or necessity in the relationship between the two things being described.
Radical
人
Stroke Count
7JLPT
N1Grade
8Frequency
945
Handwriting
kanji
随Meaning
Follow, All
Reading
kunyomiしたがshitaga
まにまmanima
onyomiずいzui
Parts
⻖ 迶
Example Word
随分: quite. The Japanese adverb '随分 (ずいぶん)' is used to express a considerable degree or extent of something, often implying that the degree is more than expected. It can be translated as 'quite', 'very', or 'considerably' in English. This word is often used in both positive and negative contexts, depending on the situation. For example: It's quite cold today「今日は随分寒いですね」(きょうはずいぶんさむいですね). She has changed quite a bit「彼女は随分変わった」(かのじょはずいぶんかわった). Note that '随分' can sometimes carry a nuance of surprise or unexpectedness, depending on the context.
Radical
阜
Stroke Count
12JLPT
N1Grade
8Frequency
948
Handwriting
kanji
嬢Meaning
Lass, Young lady
Reading
kunyomiむすめmusume
onyomiじょうjou
Parts
女Woman 㐮
Example Word
お嬢さん: daughter or young lady. The Japanese noun 'お嬢さん (おじょうさん)' can mean 'daughter' or 'young lady'. It is a polite term used to refer to someone else's daughter or a young woman, often implying respect or formality. When used to mean 'daughter', it is typically in the context of referring to someone else's daughter, not your own. When used to mean 'young lady', it often carries a tone of politeness or endearment. For example: Is this your daughter?「こちらはお嬢さんですか?」(こちらはおじょうさんですか?). The young lady over there is very kind「あちらのお嬢さんはとても親切です」(あちらのおじょうさんはとてもしんせつです). Note that using 'お嬢さん' to refer to your own daughter can sound overly formal or even sarcastic in some contexts.
Radical
女
Stroke Count
16JLPT
N1Grade
8Frequency
950
Handwriting
kanji
侍Meaning
Attend to, Samurai
Reading
kunyomiさむらいsamurai
onyomiじji
Parts
亻Person (人)寺Temple
Example Word
侍: samurai. The Japanese noun '侍 (さむらい)' refers to a 'samurai', a member of the warrior class in feudal Japan. Samurai were known for their strict code of honor, discipline, and martial skills. The term is often associated with loyalty, bravery, and the bushido (the way of the warrior). Example sentences: The samurai fought bravely「侍は勇敢に戦った」(さむらいはゆうかんにたたかった). He is a descendant of a samurai family「彼は侍の家系の子孫です」(かれはさむらいのかけいのしそんです). The word can also be used metaphorically to describe someone who embodies the qualities of a samurai, such as honor and discipline.
Radical
人
Stroke Count
8JLPT
N1Grade
8Frequency
961
Handwriting
kanji
憎Meaning
Hate
Reading
kunyomiにくniku
onyomiぞうzou
Parts
火Fire 曽Formerly
Example Word
憎い: hateful. The Japanese adjective '憎い (にくい)' primarily means 'hateful' or 'detestable'. It is used to describe something or someone that evokes strong feelings of dislike or hatred. This word can be used in various contexts, such as describing a person's actions, characteristics, or even situations. For example: His behavior is hateful「彼の行動は憎い」(かれのこうどうはにくい). That person is detestable「あの人は憎い」(あのひとはにくい). Additionally, '憎い' can sometimes be used in a more nuanced or ironic way to describe something that is surprisingly impressive or admirable, often in a grudging manner. For example: That was a hatefully clever move「それは憎いほど賢い手だった」(それはにくいほどかしこいてだった).
Radical
心
Stroke Count
14JLPT
N2Grade
8Frequency
963
Handwriting
kanji
惜Meaning
Regret, Frugal
Reading
kunyomiおo
onyomiせきseki
Parts
忄 昔Old times
Example Word
惜しむ: regret. The Japanese verb '惜しむ (おしむ)' primarily means 'to regret' or 'to feel sorrow over the loss or absence of something'. It conveys a sense of valuing something highly and feeling a deep sense of loss or reluctance to part with it. This verb can be used in various contexts, such as regretting the loss of time, opportunities, or even the passing of a loved one. For example: I regret wasting time「時間を惜しむ」(じかんをおしむ). He regretted the loss of his friend「彼は友人の死を惜しんだ」(かれはゆうじんのしをおしん だ). Additionally, '惜しむ' can also imply a sense of sparing or being reluctant to use something valuable, as in sparing no effort「努力を惜しまない」(どりょくをおしまない).
Radical
心
Stroke Count
11JLPT
N1Grade
8Frequency
966
Handwriting
kanji
遂Meaning
Consummate, Accomplish
Reading
kunyomiとto
ついtsui
onyomiすいsui
Parts
⻌Walk 㒸
Example Word
遂げる: achieve or accomplish. The Japanese verb '遂げる (とげる)' means 'to achieve' or 'to accomplish'. It is used to describe the successful completion of a goal, task, or significant event. This verb often carries a sense of finality or fulfillment, and it is commonly used in formal or serious contexts. For example: He achieved his dream「彼は夢を遂げた」(かれはゆめをとげた). The project was accomplished successfully「そのプロジェクトは無事に遂げられた」(そのプロジェクトはぶじにとげられた). Note that '遂げる' is often used with abstract or significant goals, such as dreams, missions, or historical events.
Radical
辵
Stroke Count
12JLPT
N1Grade
8Frequency
975
Handwriting
kanji
刑Meaning
Punish
Reading
onyomiけいkei
Parts
开Open 刂Sword (刀)
Example Word
刑務所: prison. The Japanese noun '刑務所 (けいむしょ)' refers to a 'prison' or 'penitentiary', a facility where individuals convicted of crimes are incarcerated. This term is specifically used for institutions that house individuals serving sentences for criminal offenses. It is a formal term and is commonly used in legal and official contexts. For example: He was sent to prison「彼は刑務所に送られた」(かれはけいむしょにおくられた). The prison is located outside the city「その刑務所は市の外にあります」(そのけいむしょはしのそとにあります). Note that '刑務所' is distinct from other terms like '拘置所 (こうちしょ)', which refers to a detention center for individuals awaiting trial.
Radical
刀
Stroke Count
6JLPT
N1Grade
8Frequency
980
Handwriting
kanji
勘Meaning
Check, Intuition
Reading
onyomiかんkan
Parts
甚Extremely, Tremendously 力Power
Example Word
勘定: bill or calculation. The Japanese verbal noun '勘定 (かんじょう)' has two primary meanings. The first is 'bill', referring to the amount owed for services or goods, often used in restaurants or stores. For example: Please bring the bill「勘定をお願いします」(かんじょうをおねがいします). The second meaning is 'calculation', referring to the act of computing or figuring out numbers. For example: He is good at mental calculation「彼は暗算の勘定が得意です」(かれはあんざんのかんじょうがとくいです). The word can also imply careful consideration or planning in certain contexts, such as 'taking into account'.
Radical
力
Stroke Count
11JLPT
N1Grade
8Frequency
982
Handwriting
kanji
菊Meaning
Chrysanthemum
Reading
kunyomiきくkiku
onyomiきくkiku
Parts
艹Grass 匊
Example Word
菊: chrysanthemum. The Japanese noun '菊 (きく)' refers to the chrysanthemum flower. This flower holds significant cultural importance in Japan, symbolizing longevity and rejuvenation. It is also the emblem of the Imperial Family and is prominently featured during the Chrysanthemum Festival (菊の節句, きくのせっく) in autumn. Example sentences include: The chrysanthemum is beautiful「菊がきれいです」(きくがきれいです). I saw a chrysanthemum at the garden「庭で菊を見ました」(にわできくをみました).
Radical
艸
Stroke Count
11JLPT
N1Grade
8Frequency
996
Handwriting
kanji
華Meaning
China, Splendor
Reading
kunyomiはなhana
onyomiけke
かka
Parts
艹Grass
Example Word
中華: China or Chinese. The Japanese proper noun '中華 (ちゅうか)' refers to China or things related to Chinese culture, cuisine, or style. It is commonly used in compound words to denote something of Chinese origin or influence. For example: Chinese cuisine「中華料理」(ちゅうかりょうり), Chinese-style architecture「中華風建築」(ちゅうかふうけんちく). The term can also be used more broadly to refer to anything associated with Chinese culture or traditions. Note that while '中華' primarily refers to China, it is often used in contexts emphasizing cultural or stylistic elements rather than the geographical or political entity.
Radical
艸
Stroke Count
10JLPT
N1Grade
8Frequency
999
Handwriting
kanji
廊Meaning
Corridor, Passageway
Reading
onyomiろうrou
Parts
广Dotted cliff 郎Young man, Guy
Example Word
廊下: hallway. The Japanese noun '廊下 (ろうか)' refers to a 'hallway' or 'corridor'. It is used to describe a long, narrow passage inside a building that connects rooms. This word is commonly used in both residential and public buildings. For example: The hallway is long「廊下が長い」(ろうかがながい). Please walk quietly in the hallway「廊下では静かに歩いてください」(ろうかではしずかにあるいてください). The word can also be used metaphorically to describe a passage or pathway, but this usage is less common.
Radical
广
Stroke Count
12JLPT
N1Grade
8Frequency
1001
Handwriting
kanji
袋Meaning
Bag, Sack
Reading
kunyomiふくろfukuro
onyomiたいtai
Parts
代Substitute, Era 衣Clothes
Example Word
袋: bag. The Japanese noun '袋 (ふくろ)' means 'bag'. It refers to a flexible container made of paper, cloth, plastic, or other materials, used to carry or store items. This word is commonly used in everyday contexts, such as shopping or packaging. For example: Please put it in the bag「袋に入れてください」(ふくろにいれてください). This bag is heavy「この袋は重い」(このふくろはおもい). The word can also refer to pouches or sacks, depending on the context. It is a versatile term used in various situations involving containers.
Radical
衣
Stroke Count
11JLPT
N2Grade
8Frequency
1002
Handwriting
kanji
概Meaning
In general, Approximation
Reading
kunyomiおおむoomu
onyomiがいgai
Parts
木Tree, Wood 既Already, Previously
Example Word
概念: concept. The Japanese noun '