Jōyō KanjiOrganized by JLPT Level
JLPT N5
kanji
人Meaning
Person
Reading
hito
りri
onyomiじんjin
にんnin
Parts
丿Katakana no 乀Stretch
Example Word
大人しい: quiet. The Japanese adjective '大人しい (おとなしい)' primarily means 'quiet' or 'well-behaved'. It is often used to describe someone who is calm, reserved, or obedient. This word can also imply a sense of gentleness or docility. For example: The child is quiet「その子は大人しい」(そのこはおとなしい). She is a quiet person「彼女は大人しい人だ」(かのじょはおとなしいひとだ). Note that while '大人しい' can sometimes imply shyness, its core meaning revolves around being calm and unobtrusive.
Radical
人
Stroke Count
2JLPT
N5Grade
1Frequency
1
Radical Forms
𠂉, 亻, 𠆢
Handwriting
kanji
一Meaning
One
Reading
hito
onyomiいちichi
いつitsu
Example Word
一人一人: each person. The Japanese noun '一人一人 (ひとりひとり)' means 'each person' or 'every individual'. It emphasizes the individuality of each person within a group. This word is often used to highlight the importance of considering or addressing each person separately, rather than treating a group as a homogeneous entity. For example: Each person has their own opinion「一人一人が自分の意見を持っている」(ひとりひとりがじぶんのいけんをもっている). The teacher spoke to each student individually「先生は一人一人の生徒に話しかけた」(せんせいはひとりひとりのせいとにはなしかけた).
Radical
一
Stroke Count
1JLPT
N5Grade
1Frequency
2
Handwriting
kanji
見Meaning
See
Reading
mi
onyomiけんken
Parts
儿Legs 目Eye
Example Word
見送り: seeing off. The Japanese verbal noun '見送り (みおくり)' refers to the act of seeing someone off, typically when they are departing, such as at a train station, airport, or when someone is leaving home. It conveys a sense of farewell and care. For example: I went to the station to see my friend off「友達を見送りに駅に行った」(ともだちをみおくりにえきにいった). They saw me off at the airport「彼らは空港で私を見送った」(かれらはくうこうでわたしをみおくった). This term is often used in contexts involving travel or long-term separation, emphasizing the emotional aspect of parting.
Radical
見
Stroke Count
7JLPT
N5Grade
1Frequency
3
Handwriting
kanji
出Meaning
Exit
Reading
de
だda
onyomiしゅつshutsu
Parts
凵Open box 山Mountain
Example Word
出演: appearance. The Japanese verbal noun '出演 (しゅつえん)' means 'appearance' and is used to describe someone's participation or performance in a public event, such as a TV show, movie, play, or concert. It is often used in contexts related to entertainment or media. For example: She made an appearance on TV「彼女はテレビに出演した」(かのじょはテレビにしゅつえんした). The actor will appear in the new movie「その俳優は新しい映画に出演する」(そのはいゆうはあたらしいえいがにしゅつえんする). Note that '出演' is commonly used in formal or professional settings and is often paired with verbs like 'する' to indicate the act of appearing.
Radical
凵
Stroke Count
5JLPT
N5Grade
1Frequency
4
Handwriting
kanji
来Meaning
Come
Reading
kita
くku
onyomiらいrai
Parts
米Rice 一One
Example Word
出来るだけ: as much as possible. The Japanese adverb '出来るだけ (できるだけ)' means 'as much as possible' or 'to the extent possible'. It is used to express the idea of doing something to the fullest extent or making the maximum effort. This adverb is often used to indicate that someone is trying their best or doing something to the greatest degree they can. For example: I will study as much as possible「出来るだけ勉強します」(できるだけべんきょうします). Please come as early as possible「出来るだけ早く来てください」(できるだけはやくきてください). It is a versatile phrase that can be used in various contexts to emphasize effort or extent.
Radical
木
Stroke Count
7JLPT
N5Grade
2Frequency
5
Handwriting
kanji
大Meaning
Big
Reading
oo
onyomiだいdai
たいtai
Parts
一One 人Person
Example Word
大使: ambassador. The Japanese noun '大使 (たいし)' means 'ambassador'. This term refers to a high-ranking official who represents their country in a foreign nation, typically working to maintain diplomatic relations. The word is often used in formal contexts, such as politics, international relations, or official events. For example: The ambassador visited Japan「大使が日本を訪問した」(たいしがにほんをほうもんした). She is the ambassador to France「彼女はフランスの大使です」(かのじょはフランスのたいしです). The term can also be used metaphorically to describe someone who represents or promotes a particular cause or idea, though this usage is less common.
Radical
大
Stroke Count
3JLPT
N5Grade
1Frequency
6
Handwriting
kanji
子Meaning
Child
Reading
ko
onyomiすsu
しshi
Parts
了Finish, Complete 一One
Example Word
養子: adopted child. The Japanese noun '養子 (ようし)' means 'adopted child'. It refers to a child who is legally adopted into a family, becoming part of that family through legal processes. This word is often used in contexts related to family law, inheritance, or social discussions about adoption. Example: They adopted a child 「彼らは養子をもらった」 (かれらはようしをもらった). The adopted child inherited the property 「養子が財産を相続した」 (ようしがざいさんをそうぞくした). Note that '養子' can refer to either an adopted son or daughter, depending on the context.
Radical
子
Stroke Count
3JLPT
N5Grade
1Frequency
7
Handwriting
kanji
日Meaning
Day, Sun
Reading
hi
かka
onyomiじつjitsu
にちnichi
Parts
口Mouth 一One
Example Word
明々後日: day after tomorrow. The Japanese noun '明々後日 (しあさって)' refers to 'the day after tomorrow'. This word is used to specify a day that is two days after the current day. It is a more formal or specific term compared to '明後日 (あさって)', which also means 'the day after tomorrow'. Example sentences include: I will visit you the day after tomorrow「明々後日にあなたを訪ねます」(しあさってにあなたをたずねます). The meeting is scheduled for the day after tomorrow「会議は明々後日に予定されています」(かいぎはしあさってによていされています).
Radical
日
Stroke Count
4JLPT
N5Grade
1Frequency
8
Handwriting
kanji
中Meaning
Center
Reading
naka
onyomiちゅうchuu
Parts
口Mouth 丨Stick
Example Word
途中: midway or on the way. The Japanese noun '途中 (とちゅう)' refers to a point or period during the course of something, such as a journey, process, or event. It can mean 'midway' or 'on the way' and is often used to indicate that something is incomplete or ongoing. For example: I fell asleep midway through the movie「映画の途中で寝てしまった」(えいがのとちゅうでねてしまった). We stopped for lunch on the way to the station「駅に行く途中で昼ご飯を食べた」(えきにいくとちゅうでひるごはんをたべた). This word is commonly used in both literal and figurative contexts to describe being in the middle of an action or journey.
Radical
丨
Stroke Count
4JLPT
N5Grade
1Frequency
11
Handwriting
kanji
上Meaning
Up
Reading
ue
あa
onyomiじょうjou
Parts
一One 卜Divination
Example Word
地上: ground. The Japanese noun '地上 (ちじょう)' refers to the 'ground' or 'earth's surface'. It is used to describe the physical surface of the earth, as opposed to the sky or underground. This term is often used in contexts related to geography, construction, or everyday situations where the distinction between the ground and other areas is important. For example: The plane landed on the ground「飛行機が地上に着陸した」(ひこうきがちじょうにちゃくりくした). The building rises above the ground「その建物は地上にそびえ立つ」(そのたてものはちじょうにそびえたつ). It can also be used metaphorically to describe something being grounded or realistic, as in '地上の現実 (ちじょうのげんじつ) (grounded reality)'.
Radical
一
Stroke Count
3JLPT
N5Grade
1Frequency
12
Radical Form
丄
Handwriting
kanji
何Meaning
What
Reading
nani
なんnan
Parts
亻Person (人)可Possible
Example Word
何時頃: when. The Japanese noun '何時頃 (いつごろ)' means 'when' or 'around what time'. It is used to ask about an approximate time or period. This word is often used in casual conversations to inquire about the timing of events or actions. For example: When will you arrive?「何時頃に到着しますか?」(いつごろにとうちゃくしますか?). Around what time does the meeting start?「会議は何時頃始まりますか?」(かいぎはいつごろはじまりますか?). Note that '何時頃' is more casual and approximate compared to '何時 (なんじ)', which asks for a specific time.
Radical
人
Stroke Count
7JLPT
N5Grade
2Frequency
13
Handwriting
kanji
時Meaning
Time, Hour
Reading
toki
onyomiじji
Parts
日Day, Sun 寺Temple
Example Word
時計: watch or clock. The Japanese noun '時計 (とけい)' refers to devices that measure and indicate time. It can mean both 'clock' (a device typically found on walls or desks) and 'watch' (a portable timepiece worn on the wrist). This word is commonly used in everyday contexts to refer to timekeeping devices. For example: The clock is on the wall「時計は壁にあります」(とけいはかべにあります). I bought a new watch「新しい時計を買いました」(あたらしいとけいをかいました). The context usually clarifies whether it refers to a clock or a watch, but both meanings are widely understood.
Radical
日
Stroke Count
10JLPT
N5Grade
2Frequency
14
Handwriting
kanji
二Meaning
Two
Reading
futa
onyomiにni
Parts
一One
Example Word
二日: second or two days. The Japanese noun '二日 (ふつか)' has two primary meanings. First, it refers to the 'second day' of the month, as in 'the second of January'「1月2日」(いちがつふつか). Second, it can mean 'two days', as in 'I stayed for two days'「二日間泊まった」(ふつかかんとまった). The word is commonly used in dates and time expressions. For example: Today is the second of the month「今日は二日です」(きょうはふつかです). I will finish this in two days「これを二日で終わらせます」(これをふつかでおわらせます). Note that the reading 'ふつか' is specific to this word and should not be confused with other readings of the kanji 二 (に) or 日 (ひ).
Radical
二
Stroke Count
2JLPT
N5Grade
1Frequency
17
Handwriting
kanji
行Meaning
Go
Reading
i
おこなokona
onyomiこうkou
ぎょうgyou
Parts
彳Stop 一One 丁Street
Example Word
執行: execution. The Japanese noun '執行 (しっこう)' refers to the act of carrying out or enforcing something, such as a law, plan, or decision. It is often used in formal or legal contexts. For example: the execution of the plan「計画の執行」(けいかくのしっこう). The execution of the law「法律の執行」(ほうりつのしっこう). This term can also be used in contexts like the execution of a will or the enforcement of a court order. It is important to note that this word carries a formal tone and is typically used in professional or official settings.
Radical
行
Stroke Count
6JLPT
N5Grade
2Frequency
18
Handwriting
kanji
間Meaning
Interval, Space
Reading
ma
あいだaida
onyomiけんken
かんkan
Parts
日Day, Sun 門Gate
Example Word
期間: period. The Japanese noun '期間 (きかん)' refers to a specific span or duration of time. It is commonly used to indicate the length of time during which something occurs or is valid. For example: the contract period「契約期間」(けいやくきかん). The festival period「祭りの期間」(まつりのきかん). This term is often used in formal contexts, such as business, legal, or academic settings, to specify time frames. It can also be used in everyday conversation to describe the duration of events or activities.
Radical
門
Stroke Count
12JLPT
N5Grade
2Frequency
21
Handwriting
kanji
生Meaning
Life
Reading
nama
うu
いi
onyomiしょうshou
せいsei
Parts
土Soil 𠂉Person (人)
Example Word
生臭い: fishy or bloody. The Japanese adjective '生臭い (なまぐさい)' has two distinct meanings. The first is 'fishy', referring to a strong smell or taste of fish, often used to describe seafood or dishes with a strong fish odor. For example: This sushi smells fishy「この寿司は生臭い」(このすしはなまぐさい). The second meaning is 'bloody', referring to something related to blood or gore, often used in a figurative sense to describe something gruesome or violent. For example: The crime scene was bloody「その犯罪現場は生臭かった」(そのはんざいげんばはなまぐさかった). The word can also carry a metaphorical nuance, implying something suspicious or unpleasant, depending on the context.
Radical
生
Stroke Count
5JLPT
N5Grade
1Frequency
24
Radical Form
龶
Handwriting
kanji
気Meaning
Spirit
Reading
ki
けke
Parts
㐅Katakana me 气Air
Example Word
天気: weather. The Japanese noun '天気 (てんき)' means 'weather'. It refers to the state of the atmosphere at a particular place and time, including temperature, precipitation, and other meteorological conditions. This word is commonly used in everyday conversations to discuss or inquire about the weather. For example: The weather is nice today「今日は天気がいい」(きょうはてんきがいい). What will the weather be like tomorrow?「明日の天気はどうですか?」(あしたのてんきはどうですか?). It can also be used in expressions like 'good weather' (いい天気, いてんき) or 'bad weather' (悪い天気, わるいてんき).
Radical
气
Stroke Count
6JLPT
N5Grade
1Frequency
26
Handwriting
kanji
女Meaning
Woman
Reading
onna
めme
onyomiじょjo
にょnyo
Parts
くHiragana ku 丿Katakana no 一One
Example Word
女優: actress. The Japanese noun '女優 (じょゆう)' refers to a female actor or actress. It is specifically used for women who perform in theater, film, or television. The term is gender-specific, distinguishing female performers from male actors, who are referred to as '俳優 (はいゆう)'. Example sentences: She is a famous actress「彼女は有名な女優です」(かのじょはゆうめいなじょゆうです). The actress received an award「その女優は賞をもらいました」(そのじょゆうはしょうをもらいました).
Radical
女
Stroke Count
3JLPT
N5Grade
1Frequency
27
Handwriting
kanji
三Meaning
Three
Reading
mi
onyomiさんsan
Parts
一One 二Two
Example Word
三: three. The Japanese noun '三 (さん)' means 'three'. It is a number used to denote the quantity or position of something in a sequence. This word is commonly used in various contexts, such as counting objects, indicating time, or specifying order. For example: there are three apples「りんごが三つあります」(りんごがみっつあります). It's the third of the month「今日は三日です」(きょうはみっかです). The word '三' can also be part of compound words, such as '三日月 (みかづき)' (crescent moon), where it retains its numerical meaning but contributes to a broader concept.
Radical
一
Stroke Count
3JLPT
N5Grade
1Frequency
28
Handwriting
kanji
十Meaning
Ten
Reading
too
onyomiじゅうjuu
Parts
丨Stick 一One
Example Word
七十: seventy. The Japanese noun '七十 (ななじゅう)' means 'seventy'. It is a number used to denote the quantity or age of seventy. This word is commonly used in contexts involving counting, age, or numerical references. For example: I am seventy years old「私は七十歳です」(わたしはななじゅうさいです). There are seventy books on the shelf「本棚に七十冊の本があります」(ほんだなにななじゅうさつのほんがあります).
Radical
十
Stroke Count
2JLPT
N5Grade
1Frequency
30
Handwriting
kanji
前Meaning
Before, Front
Reading
mae
onyomiぜんzen
Parts
䒑Herbs 月Moon, Month 刂Sword (刀)
Example Word
直前: just before. The Japanese noun '直前 (ちょくぜん)' means 'just before.' It refers to the immediate period before an event or action takes place. This word is often used to describe the timeframe immediately prior to a specific event, such as departure, start time, or occurrence. For example: just before the departure of the train 「電車の出発の直前」 (でんしゃのしゅっぱつのちょくぜん). I realized it just before the deadline 「締め切りの直前に気づいた」 (しめきりのちょくぜんにきづいた). It can also be used to describe physical proximity, such as being right in front of something, but that usage is less common.
Radical
刀
Stroke Count
9JLPT
N5Grade
2Frequency
32
Handwriting
kanji
下Meaning
Down
Reading
shita
くだkuda
onyomiげge
かka
Parts
一One 卜Divination
Example Word
下り: descent. The Japanese noun '下り (くだり)' refers to a 'descent' or 'downward movement'. It is often used in contexts related to traveling or moving downward, such as descending a mountain or a train heading away from a major city. For example: The descent was steep「下りは急だった」(くだりはきゅうだった). The train bound for Kyoto is a down train「京都行きの電車は下りです」(きょうとゆきのでんしゃはくだりです). This term can also be used metaphorically to describe a decline or decrease in status, quality, or quantity.
Radical
一
Stroke Count
3JLPT
N5Grade
1Frequency
34
Radical Form
丅
Handwriting
kanji
今Meaning
Now
Reading
ima
onyomiこんkon
Parts
人Person 一One フKatakana fu
Example Word
今にも: soon or any moment. The Japanese adverb '今にも (いまにも)' is used to indicate that something is about to happen very soon or at any moment. It often carries a sense of urgency or immediacy. This word is commonly used in situations where an event is on the verge of occurring, such as rain about to fall or someone about to cry. For example: It looks like it's going to rain soon「今にも雨が降りそうだ」(いまにもあめがふりそうだ). She looks like she's about to cry any moment「彼女は今にも泣き出しそうだ」(かのじょはいまにもなきだしそうだ). The adverb is often paired with verbs or expressions that suggest something is imminent.
Radical
人
Stroke Count
4JLPT
N5Grade
2Frequency
35
Handwriting
kanji
本Meaning
Book, Origin
Reading
moto
onyomiほんhon
Parts
木Tree, Wood 一One
Example Word
本願: vow. The Japanese noun '本願 (ほんがん)' refers to a 'vow' or 'original vow', particularly in a religious or spiritual context. It is often used in Buddhism to describe the vows made by a Buddha or Bodhisattva to save all sentient beings. For example: Amida Buddha's original vow「阿弥陀仏の本願」(あみだぶつのほんがん). The monk spoke about the importance of the vow「僧侶は本願の重要性について話した」(そうりょはほんがんのじゅうようせいについてはなした). This term carries a deep spiritual significance and is commonly encountered in religious texts and discussions.
Radical
木
Stroke Count
5JLPT
N5Grade
1Frequency
36
Handwriting
kanji
年Meaning
Year
Reading
toshi
onyomiねんnen
Parts
厂Cliff 午Noon
Example Word
年賀: new years card. The Japanese noun '年賀 (ねんが)' refers to a 'New Year's card', a traditional custom in Japan where people send greeting cards to friends, family, and acquaintances to celebrate the New Year. These cards often feature auspicious symbols, greetings, and sometimes lottery numbers. Example sentences: I received a New Year's card「年賀をもらった」(ねんがをもらった). I will send a New Year's card「年賀を送ります」(ねんがをおくります). The tradition of sending 年賀状 (ねんがじょう) is deeply rooted in Japanese culture and is a way to maintain social connections.
Radical
干
Stroke Count
6JLPT
N5Grade
1Frequency
37
Handwriting
kanji
小Meaning
Small
Reading
chii
こko
onyomiしょうshou
Parts
亅Barb 八Eight
Example Word
小説: novel. The Japanese noun '小説 (しょうせつ)' refers to a 'novel', which is a long fictional narrative in prose form. This term is commonly used in literary contexts to describe works of fiction that explore complex characters, plots, and themes. For example: I enjoy reading novels「小説を読むのが好きです」(しょうせつをよむのがすきです). This novel is very interesting「この小説はとても面白い」(このしょうせつはとてもおもしろい). The word can also be used in compound terms, such as '歴史小説 (れきししょうせつ)' (historical novel) or '推理小説 (すいりしょうせつ)' (mystery novel).
Radical
小
Stroke Count
3JLPT
N5Grade
1Frequency
41
Radical Form
⺌
Handwriting
kanji
入Meaning
Enter
Reading
hai
いi
onyomiにゅうnyuu
Parts
丿Katakana no 乀Stretch
Example Word
入院: hospitalization. The Japanese verbal noun '入院 (にゅういん)' refers to the act of being admitted to a hospital for treatment or care. It is commonly used in contexts where someone is staying in a hospital due to illness, injury, or medical procedures. For example: He was hospitalized for a week「彼は一週間入院した」(かれはいっしゅうかんにゅういんした). My grandmother needs to be hospitalized「私の祖母は入院する必要がある」(わたしのそぼはにゅういんするひつようがある). This term is often used in medical or personal health-related conversations.
Radical
入
Stroke Count
2JLPT
N5Grade
1Frequency
43
Handwriting
kanji
山Meaning
Mountain
Reading
yama
onyomiさんsan
Parts
凵Open box 丨Stick
Example Word
登山: mountain climbing. The Japanese verbal noun '登山 (とざん)' refers to the activity of climbing mountains. It is commonly used to describe the act of hiking or climbing mountains as a recreational or sporting activity. For example: I enjoy mountain climbing「私は登山が好きです」(わたしはとざんがすきです). They went mountain climbing last weekend「彼らは先週末に登山に行きました」(かれらはせんしゅうまつにとざんにいきました). The term can also be used in a broader sense to refer to the act of ascending any steep or elevated terrain, not just mountains.
Radical
山
Stroke Count
3JLPT
N5Grade
1Frequency
44
Handwriting
kanji
後Meaning
After, Behind
Reading
ushi
のちnochi
onyomiごgo
こうkou
Parts
彳Stop 夂Late 幺Slight
Example Word
明々後日: day after tomorrow. The Japanese noun '明々後日 (しあさって)' refers to 'the day after tomorrow'. This word is used to specify a day that is two days after the current day. It is a more formal or specific term compared to '明後日 (あさって)', which also means 'the day after tomorrow'. Example sentences include: I will visit you the day after tomorrow「明々後日にあなたを訪ねます」(しあさってにあなたをたずねます). The meeting is scheduled for the day after tomorrow「 会議は明々後日に予定されています」(かいぎはしあさってによていされています).
Radical
彳
Stroke Count
9JLPT
N5Grade
2Frequency
45
Handwriting
kanji
学Meaning
Learn
Reading
mana
onyomiがくgaku
Parts
子Child 冖Crown ⺍Small
Example Word
退学: expulsion or withdrawal. The Japanese verbal noun '退学 (たいがく)' refers to the act of leaving or being removed from an educational institution. It can mean either 'expulsion' (when a student is forced to leave due to disciplinary reasons) or 'withdrawal' (when a student voluntarily leaves). For example: He was expelled from school「彼は退学になった」(かれは たいがくになった). She decided to withdraw from university「彼女は大学を退学することにした」(かのじょはだいがくをたいがくすることにした). The context usually clarifies whether the action is voluntary or involuntary.
Radical
子
Stroke Count
8JLPT
N5Grade
1Frequency
50
Handwriting
kanji
五Meaning
Five
Reading
itsu
onyomiごgo
Parts
丅Down (下)ユKatakana yu
Example Word
五日: five days or fifth. The Japanese noun '五日 (いつか)' can mean 'fifth' or 'five days'. When referring to the 'fifth', it is often used in the context of dates, such as the fifth day of the month. For example: today is the fifth「今日は五日です」(きょうはいつかです). When referring to 'five days', it can be used to indicate a duration. For example: I will stay for five days「五日間滞在します」(いつかかんたいざいします). The reading 'いつか' is important to distinguish this word from the homophone 'いつか' which means 'someday'.
Radical
二
Stroke Count
4JLPT
N5Grade
1Frequency
55
Handwriting
kanji
話Meaning
Talk
Reading
hana
はなしhanashi
onyomiわwa
Parts
言Say 舌Tongue
Example Word
神話: myth. The Japanese noun '神話 (しんわ)' means 'myth'. It refers to traditional stories or legends, often involving gods, supernatural beings, or ancient heroes, that explain cultural beliefs, natural phenomena, or historical events. This word is commonly used in contexts related to folklore, history, or literature. For example: Greek myths are fascinating「ギリシャの神話は面白い」(ギリシャのしんわはおもしろい). This myth explains the origin of the world「この神話は世界の起源を説明する」(このしんわはせかいのきげんをせつめいする). The term can also be used metaphorically to describe widely held but false beliefs or ideas.
Radical
言
Stroke Count
13JLPT
N5Grade
2Frequency
57
Handwriting
kanji
先Meaning
Before, Previous
Reading
saki
onyomiせんsen
Parts
儿Legs 土Soil 丿Katakana no
Example Word
先祖: ancestor. The Japanese noun '先祖 (せんぞ)' refers to one's ancestors or forebears. It is commonly used to describe family lineage or those who came before in a family's history. This word carries a sense of respect and is often used in contexts related to family traditions, genealogy, or cultural practices honoring ancestors. For example: I respect my ancestors「私は先祖を尊敬する」(わたしはせんぞをそんけいする). Our ancestors lived here「私たちの先祖はここに住んでいた」(わたしたちのせんぞはここにすんでいた). The term is also used in phrases like '先祖代々 (せんぞだいだい)', meaning 'for generations'.
Radical
儿
Stroke Count
6JLPT
N5Grade
1Frequency
66
Handwriting
kanji
書Meaning
Write
Reading
ka
onyomiしょsho
Parts
聿Brush 日Day, Sun
Example Word
縦書き: vertical writing. The Japanese noun '縦書き (たてがき)' refers to the traditional style of writing in Japanese where text is arranged in vertical columns, read from top to bottom and right to left. This style is commonly used in books, newspapers, and formal documents. For example: This book is written in vertical writing「この本は縦書きです」(このほんはたてがきです). I prefer vertical writing for novels「小説は縦書きが好きです」(しょうせつはたてがきがすきです). It contrasts with '横書き (よこがき)', which is horizontal writing, typically used in digital formats and Western-style documents.
Radical
曰
Stroke Count
10JLPT
N5Grade
2Frequency
67
Handwriting
kanji
聞Meaning
Listen
Reading
ki
onyomiぶんbun
もんmon
Parts
門Gate 耳Ear
Example Word
聞かす: tell. The Japanese verb '聞かす (きかす)' means 'to tell' or 'to make someone listen'. It is often used when someone is sharing information, a story, or music with another person, emphasizing the act of making the listener hear or pay attention. For example: He told me an interesting story「彼は私に面白い話を聞かせた」(かれはわたしにおもしろいはなしをきかせた). She made me listen to her favorite song「彼女は私に好きな曲を聞かせた」(かのじょはわたしにすきなきょくをきかせた). This verb is commonly used in casual or conversational contexts.
Radical
耳
Stroke Count
14JLPT
N5Grade
2Frequency
68
Handwriting
kanji
長Meaning
Long, Leader
Reading
naga
onyomiちょうchou
Parts
衣Clothes 丨Stick 三Three
Example Word
細長い: slender. The Japanese adjective '細長い (ほそながい)' means 'slender' or 'long and thin'. It is used to describe objects, shapes, or even body parts that are elongated and narrow. For example: a slender river「細長い川」(ほそながいかわ). She has slender fingers「彼女は細長い指をしている」(かのじょはほそながいゆびをしている). This adjective is often used to describe natural features like rivers, valleys, or branches, as well as man-made objects like pencils or roads. It carries a neutral connotation and is commonly used in everyday conversation.
Radical
長
Stroke Count
8JLPT
N5Grade
2Frequency
71
Handwriting
kanji
月Meaning
Moon, Month
Reading
tsuki
onyomiげつgetsu
がつgatsu
Parts
三Three 丿Katakana no 亅Barb
Example Word
先月: last month. The Japanese noun '先月 (せんげつ)' means 'last month'. It refers to the month immediately preceding the current one. This word is commonly used in daily conversation and writing to refer to recent past events. For example: I went to Japan last month「先月日本に行きました」(せんげつにほんにいきました). Last month was very busy「先月はとても忙しかった」(せんげつはとてもいそがしかった). Note that'先月'is specifically used to talk about the previous month and should not be confused with other time-related terms such as '先週 (せんしゅう)' which means 'last week' or '去年 (きょねん)' which means 'last year'.
Radical
月
Stroke Count
4JLPT
N5Grade
1Frequency
76
Handwriting
kanji
四Meaning
Four
Reading
yon
onyomiしshi
Parts
儿Legs 口Mouth
Example Word
真四角: square. The Japanese adjectival noun '真四角 (ましかく)' means 'square'. It is used to describe something that has a perfectly square shape, with all sides equal and all angles at 90 degrees. This term is often used to describe objects, shapes, or even abstract concepts that resemble a square. For example: The table is square「そのテーブルは真四角だ」(そのテーブルはましかくだ). The room is square「この部屋は真四角です」(このへやはましかくです). The term emphasizes precision and exactness in shape, making it distinct from more general terms like '四角 (しかく)', which can refer to any rectangular shape.
Radical
囗
Stroke Count
5JLPT
N5Grade
1Frequency
77
Handwriting
kanji
男Meaning
Man
Reading
otoko
onyomiだんdan
なんnan
Parts
田Rice field 力Power
Example Word
長男: eldest son. The Japanese noun '長男 (ちょうなん)' refers to the 'eldest son' in a family. This term is used to denote the firstborn male child, often carrying cultural significance in terms of inheritance, family responsibilities, and traditional roles. For example: His eldest son is a doctor「彼の長男は医者です」(かれのちょうなんはいしゃです). The eldest son inherited the family business「長男は家業を継ぎました」(ちょうなんはかぎょうをつぎました). In Japanese society, the eldest son may traditionally be expected to take care of aging parents or manage family affairs.
Radical
田
Stroke Count
7JLPT
N5Grade
1Frequency
86
Handwriting
kanji
外Meaning
Outside
Reading
soto
はずhazu
onyomiげge
がいgai
Parts
夕Evening 卜Divination
Example Word
内外: inside outside or domestic foreign. The Japanese noun '内外 (ないがい)' can mean both 'inside and outside' and 'domestic and foreign'. When referring to 'inside and outside', it is often used to describe the physical or conceptual boundaries of something, such as a building or an organization. For example: The company is known both inside and outside the industry「その会社は業界の内外で知られている」(そのかいしゃはぎょうかいのないがいでしられている). When referring to 'domestic and foreign', it is used to describe something that pertains to both within a country and outside of it. For example: The policy affects both domestic and foreign markets「その政策は内外の市場に影響を与える」(そのせいさくはないがいのしじょうにえいきょうをあたえる). The context in which '内外' is used will determine which meaning is intended.
Radical
夕
Stroke Count
5JLPT
N5Grade
2Frequency
87
Handwriting
kanji
名Meaning
Name
Reading
na
onyomiめいmei
みょうmyou
Parts
夕Evening 口Mouth
Example Word
名付ける: name. The Japanese verb '名付ける (なづける)' means 'to name'. It is used when giving a name to someone or something, often in a formal or deliberate manner. This verb is commonly used in contexts such as naming a child, a pet, or even a project. For example: They named their daughter Sakura「彼らは娘をさくらと名付けた」(かれらはむすめをさくらとなづけた). The scientist named the new species『科学者は新種を名付けた』(かがくしゃはしんしゅをなづけた). The verb can also imply a sense of significance or thoughtfulness in the naming process, as it is not used casually.
Radical
口
Stroke Count
6JLPT
N5Grade
1Frequency
90
Handwriting
kanji
白Meaning
White
Reading
shiro
しらshira
onyomiびゃくbyaku
はくhaku
Parts
丿Katakana no 日Day, Sun
Example Word
真っ白: pure white. The Japanese adjectival noun '真っ白 (まっしろ)' means 'pure white' or 'completely white'. It is used to describe something that is entirely white, without any blemishes or other colors. This term emphasizes the intensity or purity of the whiteness. For example: The snow is pure white「雪が真っ白だ」(ゆきがまっしろだ). Her dress is completely white「彼女のドレスは真っ白です」(かのじょのドレスはまっしろです). The term can also be used metaphorically to describe something as being clean or untainted, such as a pure heart or a blank slate.
Radical
白
Stroke Count
5JLPT
N5Grade
1Frequency
95
Handwriting
kanji
国Meaning
Country
Reading
kuni
onyomiこくkoku
Parts
玉Ball, Jewel 口Mouth
Example Word
全国: nationwide. The Japanese noun '全国 (ぜんこく)' means 'nationwide' or 'the whole country'. It refers to something that encompasses or relates to the entire nation, rather than a specific region or locality. This term is often used in contexts such as nationwide events, nationwide surveys, or nationwide distribution. For example: The typhoon affected the whole country「台風は全国に影響を与えた」(たいふうはぜんこくにえいきょうをあたえた). This product is sold nationwide「この商品は全国で販売されている」(このしょうひんはぜんこくではんばいされている).
Radical
囗
Stroke Count
8JLPT
N5Grade
2Frequency
97
Handwriting
kanji
八Meaning
Eight
Reading
yo
やya
onyomiはちhachi
Parts
丿Katakana no 乀Stretch
Example Word
八百: eight hundred. The Japanese noun '八百 (はっぴゃく)' means 'eight hundred'. This word is used to denote the number 800 in Japanese. It is a specific numerical term and is often used in contexts involving counting, quantities, or measurements. For example: eight hundred yen「八百円」(はっぴゃくえん). There are eight hundred people「八百人がいます」(はっぴゃくにんがいます). It is important to note that '八百' is a specific numerical term and is not used metaphorically or in abstract contexts.
Radical
八
Stroke Count
2JLPT
N5Grade
1Frequency
108
Handwriting
kanji
水Meaning
Water
Reading
mizu
onyomiすいsui
Parts
亅Barb くHiragana ku フKatakana fu
Example Word
水面: water surface. The Japanese noun '水面 (すいめん)' refers to the surface of water, such as that of a lake, river, or ocean. It is often used in contexts related to nature, scenery, or reflections. For example: The moonlight reflected on the water's surface「月の光が水面に反射した」(つきのひかりがすいめんにはんしゃした). The calm surface of the lake「湖の静かな水面」(みずうみのしずかなすいめん). This word is commonly used in poetic or descriptive writing to evoke imagery of water.
Radical
水
Stroke Count
4JLPT
N5Grade
1Frequency
109
Radical Forms
氵, 氺, 冫
Handwriting
kanji
金Meaning
Gold
Reading
kane
かなkana
onyomiきんkin
こんkon
Parts
全Whole, All 丷Divide
Example Word
現金: cash. The Japanese adjectival noun '現金 (げんきん)' primarily means 'cash'. It refers to physical money in the form of bills or coins, as opposed to digital or credit-based transactions. This term is commonly used in contexts involving payments, transactions, or financial discussions. For example: I paid in cash「現金で払いました」(げんきんではらいました). Do you accept cash?「現金で払えますか?」(げんきんではらえますか?). It can also be used metaphorically to describe someone who is 'practical' or 'pragmatic', but this usage is less common and context-dependent.
Radical
金
Stroke Count
8JLPT
N5Grade
1Frequency
113
Radical Form
釒
Handwriting
kanji
木Meaning
Tree, Wood
Reading
ki
こko
onyomiぼくboku
もくmoku
Parts
十Ten 人Person
Example Word
並木: tree lined. The Japanese noun '並木 (なみき)' refers to a row of trees, often planted along a street, road, or path. It is commonly used to describe scenic or aesthetically pleasing tree-lined areas. For example: The road is lined with cherry trees「その道は桜の並木です」(そのみちはさくらのなみきです). I walked along the tree-lined street「並木道を歩きました」(なみきみちをあるきました). This word evokes a sense of natural beauty and is often associated with peaceful or picturesque settings.
Radical
木
Stroke Count
4JLPT
N5Grade
1Frequency
118
Handwriting
kanji
高Meaning
High, Expensive
Reading
taka
onyomiこうkou
Parts
亠Lid 口Mouth 冂Enclosure
Example Word
高原: plateau. The Japanese noun '高原 (こうげん)' refers to a 'plateau', which is a flat, elevated landform that rises sharply above the surrounding area on at least one side. This term is commonly used in geography and travel contexts to describe highland areas. For example: The plateau is beautiful「高原は美しい」(こうげんはうつくしい). We went hiking on the plateau「高原でハイキングをしました」(こうげんでハイキングをしました). The word can also be used metaphorically to describe a state of stability or a high level, such as in economic or emotional contexts.
Radical
高
Stroke Count
10JLPT
N5Grade
2Frequency
125
Handwriting
kanji
母Meaning
Mother
Reading
haha
かあkaa
onyomiぼbo
Parts
毋Mother 丶Dot
Example Word
お祖母さん: grandmother. The Japanese noun 'お祖母さん (おばあさん)' refers to one's grandmother. It is a polite and respectful term commonly used to address or refer to one's own grandmother or someone else's grandmother. This term is often used in family contexts and carries a sense of affection and respect. For example: my grandmother is kind「私のお祖母さんは優しい」(わたしのおばあさんはやさしい). I visited my grandmother yesterday「昨日、お祖母さんを訪ねました」(きのう、おばあさんをたずねました). It's important to note that 'お祖母さん' can also be used more broadly to refer to elderly women in general, often as a term of respect.
Radical
毋
Stroke Count
5JLPT
N5Grade
2Frequency
132
Handwriting
kanji
天Meaning
Heaven
Reading
ama
onyomiてんten
Parts
一One 大Big
Example Word
天才: genius. The Japanese noun '天才 (てんさい)' refers to a person who possesses extraordinary intellectual or creative abilities, often described as a 'genius'. This term is used to highlight exceptional talent or brilliance in a specific field, such as art, science, or music. For example: he is a genius「彼は天才だ」(かれはてんさいだ). That child is a genius「あの子は天才だ」(あのこはてんさいだ). The word can also be used metaphorically to describe something exceptionally well-made or innovative, though this usage is less common. It is important to note that '天才' carries a strong positive connotation and is often used to express admiration or awe.
Radical
大
Stroke Count
4JLPT
N5Grade
1Frequency
136
Handwriting