字Jōyō KanjiOrganized by Onyomi reading

kanji

Meaning

Child

Reading

Parts

了Finish, Complete 一One

Example Word

子供: child. The Japanese noun '子供 (こども)' means 'child'. It refers to a young person, typically below the age of puberty. This word is commonly used in everyday conversation and can refer to one's own children or children in general. For example: The child is playing「子供が遊んでいる」(こどもがあそんでいる). I have two children「私は子供が二人います」(わたしはこどもがふたりいます). It can also be used in a broader sense to refer to young people collectively, as in 'children's park'『子供の公園』(こどものこうえん). Note that '子供' is a neutral term and does not carry any specific connotations unless contextually implied.

Radical

子

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

7

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Think

Reading

Parts

心Heart 田Rice field

Example Word

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

Radical

心

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

9

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Private, Me

Reading

Parts

禾Cereal 厶Private

Example Word

私: I. The Japanese pronoun '私 (わたし)' is a common way to refer to oneself, equivalent to 'I' in English. It is gender-neutral and widely used in both formal and informal contexts. However, it is more commonly used by women in casual settings, as men might opt for alternatives like '僕 (ぼく)' or '俺 (おれ)' depending on the situation. Example sentences: I am a student「私は学生です」(わたしはがくせいです). I like apples「私はりんごが好きです」(わたしはりんごがすきです). In formal settings, '私' is universally appropriate regardless of gender.

Radical

禾

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

15

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Self

Reading

Parts

丿Katakana no 目Eye

Example Word

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

Radical

自

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

20

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Four

Reading

Parts

口Mouth 儿Legs

Example Word

四: four. The Japanese noun '四 (よん)' means 'four'. It is a cardinal number used to denote the quantity or position of something in a sequence. This reading is commonly used in everyday speech and is more casual compared to the on'yomi reading 'し'. For example: there are four apples「りんごが四つある」(りんごがよっつある). I live on the fourth floor「四階に住んでいます」(よんかいにすんでいます). It's important to note that '四' can also be read as 'し' in certain contexts, such as in the word '四月 (しがつ)' meaning 'April'.

Radical

囗

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

77

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Next

Reading

Parts

冫Ice (水)欠Lack

Example Word

次: next. The Japanese noun '次 (つぎ)' means 'next'. It is commonly used to refer to the following item, event, or point in a sequence. For example: the next station is Shinjuku「次の駅は新宿です」(つぎのえきはしんじゅくです). What's next?「次は何ですか？」(つぎはなんですか？). It can also be used in contexts like 'next time' or 'next step'. For instance: see you next time「また次会いましょう」(またつぎあいましょう). The nuance of '次' often implies a continuation or progression in a sequence, making it a versatile word in both casual and formal settings.

Radical

欠

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

101

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Death

Reading

Parts

歹Bad 匕Spoon

Example Word

死ぬ: die. The Japanese verb '死ぬ (しぬ)' means 'to die'. It is used to describe the act of ceasing to live, whether referring to humans, animals, or even plants. This verb is neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. For example: the bird died「鳥が死んだ」(とりがしんだ). He died in an accident「彼は事故で死んだ」(かれはじこでしんだ). It is important to note that '死ぬ' is an intransitive verb, meaning it does not take a direct object. Additionally, it is often used in expressions like '死にたい (しにたい)' (want to die) or '死んでしまった (しんでしまった)' (has died), which convey strong emotional states or irreversible outcomes.

Radical

歹

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

120

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Serve

Reading

Parts

亻Person (人)士Samurai

Example Word

仕舞う: put away. The Japanese verb '仕舞う(しまう)' primarily means 'put away' or 'store'. It is used to describe the action of putting something in its proper place or out of sight, often implying that the item is being stored neatly or securely. This verb can also imply completing an action or finishing something, though this usage is less common. For example: I put away th ebooks「本を仕舞った」(ほんをしまった).She put away her toys「彼女はおもちゃを仕舞った」(かのじょはおもちゃをしまった). Note that'しまう'can also be used as an auxiliary verb to denote the completion of an action with a sense of finality, as in '食べてしまった' (たべてしまった), meaning' I ate it up' or 'I ended up eating it'.

Radical

人

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

155

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Samurai

Reading

Example Word

士: expert. The Japanese suffix '士 (し)' is used to denote a person who is an expert or professional in a particular field. It is often attached to nouns to form words that describe someone's profession or status. For example: a lawyer「弁護士」(べんごし). A nurse「看護士」(かんごし). This suffix is commonly used in professional titles and can be found in various contexts, such as in job titles or certifications. It is important to note that '士' can also be used in other contexts, but its primary meaning as a suffix is to indicate expertise or professional status.

Radical

士

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

189

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Family name

Reading

Example Word

氏: surname. The Japanese noun '氏 (し)' refers to a person's surname or family name. It is often used in formal or written contexts, such as in official documents, news articles, or academic papers. For example: Mr. Tanaka's opinion「田中氏の意見」(たなかしのいけん). The term can also be used to refer to someone in a respectful manner, particularly when discussing their work or contributions. For instance: Dr. Suzuki's research「鈴木氏の研究」(すずきしのけんきゅう). Note that '氏' is typically used in third-person references and is not used when directly addressing someone.

Radical

氏

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

231

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Paper

Reading

Parts

糸Thread 氏Family name

Example Word

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

Radical

糸

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

254

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Shape, Figure

Reading

Parts

女Woman 次Next

Example Word

姿: figure. The Japanese noun '姿 (すがた)' refers to a person's figure, appearance, or form. It is often used to describe the physical shape or silhouette of someone or something, and can also imply the presence or absence of a person. For example: her figure disappeared into the crowd「彼女の姿は群衆の中に消えた」(かのじょのすがたはぐんしゅうのなかにきえた). The figure of a mountain in the distance「遠くに山の姿が見える」(とおくにやまのすがたがみえる). This word can also be used metaphorically to describe the state or condition of something, such as 'the figure of a company'「会社の姿」(かいしゃのすがた).

Radical

女

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

263

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Begin

Reading

Parts

女Woman 台Pedestal, Machine

Example Word

始める: start. The Japanese verb '始める (はじめる)' means 'to start' or 'to begin'. It is used to indicate the beginning of an action, event, or process. This verb is often paired with another verb in its stem form to express starting to do something, such as '食べ始める (たべはじめる)' (to start eating). For example: I started studying Japanese「日本語を勉強し始めた」(にほんごをべんきょうしはじめた). She began to cry「彼女は泣き始めた」(かのじょはなきはじめた). The verb can also stand alone to indicate the start of something, like 'The meeting started「会議が始まった」(かいぎがはじまった)'. Note that '始める' is a transitive verb, so it often takes a direct object.

Radical

女

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

267

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Use

Reading

Parts

亻Person (人)吏Officer, Official

Example Word

使う: use. The Japanese verb '使う (つかう)' means 'to use'. It is a common verb that describes the action of utilizing something for a purpose. It can be applied to objects, tools, money, time, or even abstract concepts like methods or strategies. For example: I use a pen to write「ペンを使って書く」(ペンをつかってかく). She uses her time wisely「彼女は時間を上手に使う」(かのじょはじかんをじょうずにつかう). The verb can also imply the act of spending or consuming, such as in 'お金を使う (おかねをつかう) (to spend money)'. It is important to note that '使う' is often used in combination with other verbs to express the means or method of doing something, as in '使ってみる (つかってみる) (to try using)'.

Radical

人

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

271

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Master, Expert

Reading

Example Word

師: teacher. The Japanese noun '師 (し)' means 'teacher' or 'master'. It refers to someone who is highly skilled or knowledgeable in a particular field and often serves as a mentor or guide. This term is commonly used in contexts such as martial arts, arts and crafts, or academic disciplines. For example: He is my teacher「彼は私の師です」(かれはわたしのしです). The tea ceremony master is respected「茶道の師は尊敬されている」(さどうのしはそんけいされている). Note that '師' can also be part of compound words, such as '教師 (きょうし)' (teacher) or '医師 (いし)' (doctor).

Radical

巾

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

288

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Branch, Support

Reading

Parts

十Ten 又Again

Example Word

支える: support. The Japanese verb '支える (ささえる)' means 'to support'. It is used to describe the act of providing physical, emotional, or financial support to someone or something. This verb can be used in various contexts, such as supporting a family, holding up a structure, or backing up an idea. For example: I support my family「私は家族を支える」(わたしはかぞくをささえる). The pillars support the building「柱が建物を支えている」(はしらがたてものをささえている). It can also imply sustaining or maintaining something, as in '支える力 (ささえるちから) (supporting force)'.

Radical

支

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

347

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Finger

Reading

Parts

扌Hand (手)旨Purport, Delicious

Example Word

指: finger. The Japanese noun '指 (ゆび)' refers to a 'finger'. It is used to describe the digits on a hand, and can also refer to toes in certain contexts, though '足の指 (あしのゆび)' is more specific for toes. This word is commonly used in everyday conversation and can be found in various expressions. For example: my finger hurts「指が痛い」(ゆびがいたい). She pointed with her finger「彼女は指で指した」(かのじょはゆびでさした). The word can also be used metaphorically, such as in '指を差す (ゆびをさす)', which means 'to point at' or 'to accuse'.

Radical

手

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

359

Handwriting

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

History

Reading

Parts

口Mouth

Example Word

歴史: history. The Japanese noun '歴史 (れきし)' means 'history'. It refers to the study or record of past events, particularly those involving human affairs. This word is commonly used in academic, cultural, and everyday contexts to discuss historical events, periods, or the development of societies. For example: I study Japanese history「私は日本の歴史を勉強します」(わたしはにほんのれきしをべんきょうします). This town has a long history「この町は長い歴史があります」(このまちはながいれきしがあります). The word can also be used metaphorically to describe the background or development of something, such as a person's life or an organization.

Radical

口

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

457

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

Arrive, Climax

Reading

Parts

土Soil 厶Private 一One

Example Word

至る: reach. The Japanese verb '至る (いたる)' means 'to reach' or 'to arrive at'. It is often used to describe reaching a destination, conclusion, or state. This verb can be used in both literal and figurative contexts. For example: The train reached the station「電車が駅に至った」(でんしゃがえきにいたった). After much discussion, we reached a conclusion「多くの議論の末、結論に至った」(おおくのぎろんのすえ、けつろんにいたった). Note that '至る' can also imply a process leading up to the final point, emphasizing the journey or progression.

Radical

至

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

480

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Poetry

Reading

Parts

寺Temple 訁Say (言)

Example Word

詩: poem. The Japanese noun '詩 (し)' means 'poem'. It refers to a piece of writing that expresses emotions, ideas, or experiences in a rhythmic and often metaphorical way. This word is commonly used in literary contexts and can refer to both traditional and modern forms of poetry. For example: I wrote a poem「詩を書いた」(しをかいた). This poem is beautiful「この詩は美しい」(このしはうつくしい). The term can also be used to describe the art or practice of writing poems, as in '詩を書く (しをかく) (to write poetry)'.

Radical

言

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

508

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Intention

Reading

Parts

心Heart 士Samurai

Example Word

意志: will. The Japanese noun '意志 (いし)' refers to 'will' or 'volition'. It describes the mental faculty by which a person decides on and commits to a course of action. This word is often used in contexts involving determination, intention, or resolve. For example: He has a strong will「彼は強い意志を持っている」(かれはつよいいしをもっている). Her will to succeed is admirable「彼女の成功への意志は立派だ」(かのじょのせいこうへのいしはりっぱだ). It can also be used in philosophical or psychological discussions about free will and decision-making.

Radical

心

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

568

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Show, Indicate

Reading

Parts

小Small 二Two

Example Word

示す: show. The Japanese verb '示す (しめす)' means 'to show' or 'to indicate'. It is used to express the act of presenting something visibly or making something clear. This verb can be used in various contexts, such as showing evidence, indicating a direction, or demonstrating a concept. For example: He showed me the way「彼は私に道を示した」(かれはわたしにみちをしめした). The data indicates a clear trend「データは明確な傾向を示している」(データはめいかくなけいこうをしめしている). Note that '示す' often implies a deliberate or intentional act of showing or indicating something.

Radical

示

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

574

Radical Form

礻

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

See, Look

Reading

Parts

見See 礻Cult (示)

Example Word

視線: gaze. The Japanese noun '視線 (しせん)' refers to the direction or focus of someone's eyes, often translated as 'gaze' or 'line of sight'. It is commonly used to describe where someone is looking or the act of looking at something. This word can also carry nuances of attention, scrutiny, or even judgment depending on the context. For example: Her gaze was fixed on the painting「彼女の視線はその絵に釘づけだった」(かのじょのしせんはそのえにくぎづけだった). I felt someone's gaze on me「誰かの視線を感じた」(だれかのしせんをかんじた). The word is often used in situations where the direction or intensity of looking is significant, such as in social interactions or artistic descriptions.

Radical

見

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

644

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

Branch

Reading

Parts

支Branch, Support 木Tree, Wood

Example Word

枝: branch. The Japanese noun '枝 (えだ)' refers to a 'branch' of a tree or plant. It is used to describe the part of a tree that grows out from the trunk or another branch, often bearing leaves, flowers, or fruit. This word can also be used metaphorically to describe branches of a family, organization, or other structures. For example: The bird is sitting on the branch「鳥が枝に止まっている」(とりがえだにとまっている). The tree has many branches「その木にはたくさんの枝がある」(そのきにはたくさんのえだがある). In a metaphorical sense, it can be used as in 'the branch of a company'「会社の枝」(かいしゃのえだ).

Radical

木

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

706

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Try, Attempt

Reading

Parts

式Style, Ceremony 訁Say (言)

Example Word

試験: test or exam. The Japanese verbal noun '試験 (しけん)' primarily means 'exam' or 'test'. It refers to a formal assessment of knowledge, skills, or abilities, often conducted in educational or professional settings. This word is commonly used in contexts like school exams, job entrance tests, or experiments. For example: I have an exam tomorrow「明日は試験があります」(あしたはしけんがあります). He passed the entrance test「彼は入学試験に合格した」(かれはにゅうがくしけんにごうかくした). Note that '試験' can also refer to trials or experiments in scientific or technical contexts, such as '試験管 (しけんかん)' (test tube).

Radical

言

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

845

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Lawn, Turf

Reading

Parts

之 艹Grass

Example Word

芝居: play or act. The Japanese noun '芝居 (しばい)' primarily refers to a theatrical play or drama performed on stage. It can also mean 'acting' or 'pretending' in a broader sense, often used to describe someone's behavior when they are putting on an act or being insincere. For example: I watched a play at the theater「劇場で芝居を見た」(げきじょうでしばいをみた). He's just putting on an act「彼はただ芝居をしている」(かれはただしばいをしている). The word can also be used metaphorically to describe situations where someone is being dramatic or exaggerating their emotions.

Radical

艸

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

862

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Capital, Resources

Reading

Parts

次Next 貝Shellfish

Example Word

資本: capital. The Japanese noun '資本 (しほん)' refers to 'capital' in the context of finance, economics, or business. It represents the financial assets or resources used to produce goods or services, such as money, machinery, or buildings. For example: The company needs more capital to expand「その会社は拡大するためにもっと資本が必要です」(そのかいしゃはかくだいするためにもっとしほんがひつようです). Capital is essential for starting a business「ビジネスを始めるには資本が不可欠です」(ビジネスをはじめるにはしほんがふかけつです). This term is commonly used in discussions about investments, funding, or economic growth.

Radical

貝

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

874

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Stab

Reading

Parts

刂Sword (刀)朿

Example Word

刺身: sashimi. The Japanese noun '刺身 (さしみ)' refers to 'sashimi', a dish consisting of thinly sliced raw fish or seafood, often served with garnishes like shredded daikon radish and shiso leaves, and accompanied by soy sauce and wasabi. It is a staple in Japanese cuisine and highlights the freshness and quality of the seafood. Example sentences: I love sashimi「刺身が大好きです」(さしみがだいすきです). This restaurant serves delicious sashimi「このレストランは美味しい刺身を出します」(このレストランはおいしいさしみをだします). Sashimi is often eaten with soy sauce and wasabi「刺身は醤油とわさびと一緒に食べます」(さしみはしょうゆとわさびといっしょにたべます).

Radical

刀

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

880

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Thread

Reading

Parts

幺Slight 小Small

Example Word

糸: thread. The Japanese noun '糸 (いと)' primarily means 'thread'. It refers to a thin, flexible strand or filament of material, often used in sewing or weaving. This word can also metaphorically represent something delicate or fine, like a thread of thought or connection. Example sentences: She bought red thread「彼女は赤い糸を買った」(かのじょはあかいいとをかった). The thread broke「糸が切れた」(いとがきれた). In some contexts, '糸' can also refer to strings in musical instruments, but this usage is less common and typically specified further.

Radical

糸

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

997

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Tooth

Reading

Parts

米Rice 止Stop 凵Open box

Example Word

歯: tooth. The Japanese noun '歯 (は)' means 'tooth'. It refers to the hard, calcified structures in the mouth used for biting and chewing. This word is commonly used in everyday conversation and medical contexts. For example: I have a toothache「歯が痛い」(はがいたい). Brush your teeth「歯を磨きなさい」(はをみがきなさい). The word can also be used metaphorically, such as in the phrase '歯が立たない (はがたたない)', which means 'unable to handle' or 'too difficult to tackle'.

Radical

止

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

1006

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Magazine, Document

Reading

Parts

訁Say (言)志Intention

Example Word

雑誌: magazine. The Japanese noun '雑誌 (ざっし)' refers to a 'magazine', which is a periodical publication containing articles, photographs, and advertisements. It is commonly used to describe both print and digital magazines. For example: I bought a fashion magazine「ファッション雑誌を買いました」(ふぁっしょんざっしをかいました). This magazine is interesting「この雑誌は面白い」(このざっしはおもしろい). The word is often used in contexts related to reading, publishing, or media.

Radical

言

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

1023

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Director

Reading

Parts

口Mouth

Example Word

上司: boss. The Japanese noun '上司 (じょうし)' refers to a person who holds a higher position in a workplace or organization, such as a boss, supervisor, or manager. It is commonly used in professional settings to address or refer to someone in authority. For example: My boss is strict「私の上司は厳しい」(わたしのじょうしはきびしい). I reported the issue to my supervisor「上司に問題を報告しました」(じょうしにもんだいをほうこくしました). The term emphasizes the hierarchical relationship and is often used with respect.

Radical

口

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

1112

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Purple, Violet

Reading

Parts

糸Thread 此

Example Word

紫: purple. The Japanese noun '紫 (むらさき)' refers to the color 'purple'. It is commonly used to describe objects, clothing, or natural elements that are purple in color. For example: the flower is purple「その花は紫です」(そのはなはむらさきです). She wore a purple dress「彼女は紫のドレスを着ていた」(かのじょはむらさきのドレスをきていた). Historically, '紫' was associated with nobility and high status in Japan, as purple dye was rare and expensive. This cultural nuance adds depth to its usage in literature and art.

Radical

糸

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

1174

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Poetry, Words

Reading

Parts

司Director 訁Say (言)

Example Word

形容詞: adjective. The Japanese noun '形容詞 (けいようし)' refers to 'adjective' in English. It is a part of speech that describes or modifies a noun, providing additional information about its qualities or states. In Japanese grammar, 形容詞 specifically refers to i-adjectives, which are a distinct category of adjectives that end in 'い' in their dictionary form. For example: This is a beautiful flower「これは美しい花です」(これはうつくしいはなです). The weather is cold today「今日は寒いです」(きょうはさむいです). Understanding 形容詞 is crucial for constructing descriptive sentences in Japanese.

Radical

言

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

1187

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Purport, Delicious

Reading

Parts

匕Spoon 日Day, Sun

Example Word

旨: gist. The Japanese noun '旨 (むね)' refers to the main point, gist, or essence of something. It is often used to summarize or convey the core idea of a statement, document, or conversation. For example: I understood the gist of the story「話の旨が分かった」(はなしのむねがわかった). The gist of the letter is that he is coming「手紙の旨は彼が来るということだ」(てがみのむねはかれがくるということだ). This word is commonly used in formal or written contexts to emphasize the central meaning of a communication.

Radical

日

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

1438

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Inquire, Pay respects

Reading

Parts

司Director 亻Person (人)

Example Word

伺う: visit or ask. The Japanese verb '伺う (うかがう)' has two distinct meanings. The first meaning is 'to ask' or 'to inquire', often used in polite or formal situations. For example: I would like to ask a question「質問を伺いたいです」(しつもんをうかがいたいです). The second meaning is 'to visit', also used in a polite or humble context. For example: I will visit your office tomorrow「明日、御社に伺います」(あした、おんしゃにうかがいます). This verb is commonly used in business or formal settings to show respect or humility.

Radical

人

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

1482

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Alms, Carry out

Reading

Parts

方Direction

Example Word

施設: facility. The Japanese noun '施設 (しせつ)' refers to a facility or institution, often used to describe buildings or places designed for a specific purpose, such as schools, hospitals, or recreational centers. It can also refer to infrastructure or installations. For example: The new sports facility is impressive「新しいスポーツ施設は素晴らしい」(あたらしいスポーツしせつはすばらしい). The hospital is a well-equipped facility「その病院は設備の整った施設です」(そのびょういんはせつびのととのったしせつです). This word is commonly used in formal or official contexts to describe public or private establishments.

Radical

方

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

1496

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Domesticate

Reading

Parts

司Director 飠Eat (食)

Example Word

飼う: keep. The Japanese verb '飼う (かう)' means 'to keep' or 'to raise' and is specifically used in the context of keeping animals as pets or livestock. It implies taking care of an animal over time. For example: I keep a dog「犬を飼う」(いぬをかう). They raise chickens「彼らは鶏を飼う」(かれらはにわとりをかう). This verb is commonly used when talking about pets or domesticated animals, and it carries a sense of responsibility and care.

Radical

食

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

1506

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Persimmon

Reading

Parts

市City, Market 木Tree, Wood

Radical

木

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

1617

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Fat, Grease

Reading

Parts

肉Meat 旨Purport, Delicious

Example Word

脂肪: fat. The Japanese noun '脂肪 (しぼう)' refers to 'fat', specifically the biological substance found in the bodies of humans and animals, or the fatty component in food. It is commonly used in both medical and everyday contexts. For example: This food contains a lot of fat「この食べ物は脂肪が多い」(このたべものはしぼうがおおい). Exercise helps burn fat「運動は脂肪を燃やす」(うんどうはしぼうをもやす). The word can also be used metaphorically to describe excess or unnecessary elements, though this usage is less common.

Radical

肉

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

1709

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Soak, Pickle

Reading

Parts

氵Water (水)責Blame, Liability

Example Word

漬け物: pickles. The Japanese noun '漬け物 (つけもの)' refers to pickled vegetables, a common side dish in Japanese cuisine. These are vegetables that have been preserved through fermentation or soaking in a brine, vinegar, or other solutions. They are often served alongside rice or as a garnish. For example: I like pickles「私は漬け物が好きです」(わたしはつけものがすきです). These pickles are very salty「この漬け物はとても塩辛い」(このつけものはとてもしおからい). The term can also refer to the process of pickling itself, but in everyday usage, it most commonly refers to the pickled vegetables.

Radical

水

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

1788

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Grant, Deign to give

Reading

Parts

易Easy 貝Shellfish

Radical

貝

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

1823

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Female

Reading

Parts

隹Bird 此

Example Word

雌: female. The Japanese noun '雌 (めす)' refers to the female of a species, particularly in animals. It is commonly used to distinguish the sex of animals, such as in '雌の猫 (めすのねこ)' meaning 'female cat'. This term is often used in biological contexts or when specifying the gender of animals. For example: That is a female bird「あれは雌の鳥です」(あれはめすのとりです). The female dog is gentle「雌の犬はおとなしい」(めすのいぬはおとなしい). Note that '雌' is less commonly used for humans; instead, '女性 (じょせい)' is preferred when referring to female humans.

Radical

隹

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

1924

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Limb, Arms & legs

Reading

Parts

肉Meat 支Branch, Support

Example Word

肢: limb. The Japanese suffix '肢 (し)' refers to a 'limb' or 'appendage'. It is often used in compound words to denote parts of the body, particularly arms and legs. This suffix is commonly found in medical or anatomical terms. For example: upper limb「上肢」(じょうし). lower limb「下肢」(かし). It can also be used metaphorically to describe branches or extensions of something, such as in organizational structures. For example: the branch of a company「会社の肢」(かいしゃのし). Note that this suffix is rarely used alone and is typically part of a larger compound word.

Radical

肉

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

1973

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Briar, Thorn

Reading

Parts

次Next 艹Grass

Radical

艸

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

2032

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Heir

Reading

Parts

口Mouth 司Director 冊Book, Volume

Radical

口

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

2043

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Selfish, Arbitrary

Reading

Parts

心Heart 次Next

Radical

心

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

2104

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Gift, Seriousness

Reading

Parts

手Hand 執Seize, Execute

Radical

手

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

2113

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Consult

Reading

Parts

咨 訁Say (言)

Radical

言

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

2125

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Blessedness, Welfare

Reading

Parts

止Stop 礻Cult (示)

Example Word

福祉: welfare. The Japanese noun '福祉 (ふくし)' refers to 'welfare' or 'well-being'. It is commonly used in contexts related to social welfare, public health, and the overall well-being of individuals or communities. This term is often associated with government programs, social services, and policies aimed at improving the quality of life for citizens. For example: The government is improving welfare services「政府は福祉サービスを改善しています」(せいふはふくしサービスをかいぜんしています). Welfare is important for a healthy society「福祉は健康な社会にとって重要です」(ふくしはけんこうなしゃかいにとってじゅうようです). The word can also appear in compound terms like '社会福祉 (しゃかいふくし)' (social welfare) or '福祉施設 (ふくししせつ)' (welfare facilities).

Radical

示

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

2134

Handwriting