kanji

Meaning

Child

Reading

Parts

了Finish, Complete 一One

Example Word

帽子: hat. The Japanese noun '帽子 (ぼうし)' means 'hat'. This word refers to any type of head wear, such as caps, beanies, or formal hats. It is commonly used in everyday conversations when discussing clothing or accessories. For example: I bought a new hat「新しい帽子を買いました」(あたらしいぼうしをかいました). She is wearing a red hat「彼女は赤い帽子をかぶっています」(かのじょはあかいぼうしをかぶっています). The word can also be used metaphorically in some contexts, but its primary meaning is literal.

Radical

子

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

7

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Think

Reading

Parts

心Heart 田Rice field

Example Word

意思: intention. The Japanese noun '意思 (いし)' means 'intention' or 'will'. It refers to a person's conscious decision or desire to act in a certain way. This word is often used in formal or serious contexts, such as legal documents, discussions about personal decisions, or expressing one's determination. For example: He has no intention of quitting「彼は辞める意思はない」(かれはやめるいしはない). She expressed her intention to help「彼女は助ける意思を示した」(かのじょはたすけるいしをしめした). It's important to note that '意思' is more formal than other similar words like '気持ち (きもち)' or '考え (かんがえ)', and it specifically emphasizes the conscious aspect of decision-making.

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

目Eye 丿Katakana no

Example Word

自社: own company. The Japanese noun '自社 (じしゃ)' refers to 'one's own company' or 'the company one belongs to'. It is commonly used in business contexts to distinguish one's own company from others, such as competitors or partners. For example: We will use our own company's products「自社の製品を使います」(じしゃのせいひんをつかいます). The decision was made by our own company「その決定は自社で行われました」(そのけっていはじしゃでおこなわれました). This term is often used in corporate discussions, marketing, and internal communications to emphasize actions or decisions made internally.

Radical

自

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

20

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Four

Reading

Parts

儿Legs 口Mouth

Example Word

四方: directions. The Japanese noun '四方 (しほう)' refers to the four cardinal directions: north, south, east, and west. It is often used to describe the concept of all directions or the surrounding area. For example: He looked in all directions「彼は四方を見回した」(かれはしほうをみまわした). The wind blows from all directions「風が四方から吹く」(かぜがしほうからふく). This term can also be used metaphorically to indicate a comprehensive or all-encompassing view, as in 'considering all aspects'.

Radical

囗

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

77

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Next

Reading

Parts

冫Ice (水)欠Lack

Example Word

次々: one after another. The Japanese adverb '次々 (つぎつぎ)' means 'one after another' or 'in succession'. It is used to describe events, actions, or things happening continuously or in rapid sequence. This word emphasizes the flow or progression of events without interruption. For example: new products are released one after another「新製品が次々と発表される」(しんせいひんがつぎつぎとはっぴょうされる). People entered the room one after another「人々が次々と部屋に入った」(ひとびとがつぎつぎとへやにはいった). The adverb often pairs with particles like 'と' to emphasize the continuous nature of the action.

Radical

欠

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

101

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Death

Reading

Parts

匕Spoon 歹Bad

Example Word

死亡: death. The Japanese verbal noun '死亡 (しぼう)' means 'death'. It is used to refer to the act or state of dying, often in formal or official contexts such as medical, legal, or statistical reports. For example: The cause of death was a heart attack「死亡の原因は心臓発作でした」(しぼうのげんいんはしんぞうほっさでした). The number of deaths increased last year「死亡者数は去年増加しました」(しぼうしゃすうはきょねんぞうかしました). This term is neutral in tone and is commonly used in serious or factual contexts.

Radical

歹

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

120

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Serve

Reading

Parts

亻Person (人)士Samurai

Example Word

仕える: serve. The Japanese verb '仕える (つかえる)' means 'to serve'. It is used to describe the act of serving someone, often in a formal or respectful context, such as serving a master, a superior, or a deity. It can also imply loyalty and dedication. For example: He serves the king「彼は王に仕える」(かれはおうにつかえる). She serves at the temple「彼女は寺に仕える」(かのじょはてらにつかえる). The verb is often used in contexts involving duty, hierarchy, or religious service.

Radical

人

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

155

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Samurai

Reading

Example Word

同士: companion. The Japanese noun '同士 (どうし)' refers to people who share the same status, situation, or characteristics. It is often used to indicate a sense of camaraderie or mutual understanding among individuals. For example: fellow students「学生同士」(がくせいどうし). They are fellow travelers「彼らは旅人同士だ」(かれらはたびびとどうしだ). This term can also be used to describe a relationship where both parties are in the same position or have similar experiences, such as '戦友同士 (せんゆうどうし)' meaning 'comrades-in-arms'.

Radical

士

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

189

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Family name

Reading

Example Word

彼氏: boyfriend. The Japanese noun '彼氏 (かれし)' means 'boyfriend'. It is a commonly used term to refer to a male romantic partner. This word is casual and is often used in everyday conversation. For example: My boyfriend is kind「私の彼氏は優しい」(わたしのかれしはやさしい). I went to the movies with my boyfriend「彼氏と映画に行った」(かれしとえいがにいった). It is important to note that '彼氏' is specifically used for romantic relationships and not for male friends in general. The term '彼 (かれ)' can also mean 'he' or 'boyfriend', but '彼氏' is more commonly used to clearly indicate a romantic relationship.

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

開始: start. The Japanese verbal noun '開始 (かいし)' means 'start' or 'commencement'. It is used to indicate the beginning of an event, activity, or process. This word is often used in formal or official contexts, such as meetings, ceremonies, or operations. For example: The meeting will start at 10 AM「会議は10時に開始します」(かいぎは10じにかいしします). The operation has commenced「手術が開始されました」(しゅじゅつがかいしされました). Note that '開始' is typically used in written or formal speech, while more casual situations might use simpler terms like '始める (はじめる)'.

Radical

女

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

267

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Use

Reading

Parts

亻Person (人)吏Officer, Official

Example Word

使用: use. The Japanese verbal noun '使用 (しよう)' means 'use'. It refers to the act of utilizing something for a specific purpose. This word is commonly used in formal or technical contexts, such as instructions, manuals, or official documents. For example: Please use this tool「この道具を使用してください」(このどうぐをしようしてください). The use of this machine is prohibited「この機械の使用は禁止されています」(このきかいのしようはきんしされています). Note that '使用' is often paired with verbs like 'する' to form phrases like '使用する (しようする)', which means 'to use'.

Radical

人

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

271

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Master, Expert

Reading

Example Word

教師: teacher. The Japanese noun '教師 (きょうし)' means 'teacher'. It refers to someone who teaches professionally, typically in schools or educational institutions. This word is formal and is often used to describe educators in academic settings. For example: The teacher is kind「教師は優しい」(きょうしはやさしい). I want to become a teacher「教師になりたい」(きょうしになりたい). Note that '教師' is more formal than other words like '先生 (せんせい)', which is also used to mean 'teacher' but can be used more broadly to address professionals like doctors or mentors.

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

指標: indicator. The Japanese noun '指標 (しひょう)' means 'indicator'. It refers to a sign, measure, or index that shows the state or level of something. This word is often used in contexts such as economics, science, and statistics to describe data points or metrics that provide insight into trends or conditions. For example: The economic indicators are improving「経済指標が改善している」(けいざいしひょうがかいぜんしている). This chart shows key performance indicators「このチャートは主要な業績指標を示している」(このチャートはしゅようなぎょうせきしひょうをしめしている).

Radical

手

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

359

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Stop

Reading

Parts

上Up 丨Stick

Example Word

行き止まり: dead end. The Japanese noun '行き止まり (いきどまり)' refers to a 'dead end', typically a road or path that does not continue further. It can also be used metaphorically to describe a situation where progress is blocked or no further options are available. For example: This road is a dead end「この道は行き止まりです」(このみちはいきどまりです). We've reached a dead end in our negotiations「交渉は行き止まりに達した」(こうしょうはいきどまりにたっした).

Radical

止

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

365

Radical Form

龰

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

History

Reading

Parts

口Mouth

Example Word

史料: materials or historical. The Japanese noun '史料 (しりょう)' refers to historical materials or documents that are used as sources for studying history. These materials can include written records, artifacts, or any other items that provide evidence or information about past events. For example: These historical materials are valuable「この史料は貴重だ」(このしりょうはきちょうだ). Historians study historical materials「歴史家は史料を研究する」(れきしかはしりょうをけんきゅうする). The term is often used in academic or research contexts to refer to primary sources that are essential for understanding historical events.

Radical

口

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

457

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

City, Market

Reading

Parts

亠Lid 巾Towel

Example Word

市街: city. The Japanese noun '市街 (しがい)' refers to the urban or city area, typically the built-up part of a city with streets, buildings, and infrastructure. It is often used to describe the central or commercial district of a city. For example: The city is bustling with activity「市街は活気で溢れている」(しがいわかっきであふれている). We walked through the city at night「私たちは夜に市街を歩いた」(わたしたちはよるにしがいをあるいた). This term is commonly used in contexts related to urban planning, geography, or everyday descriptions of city life.

Radical

巾

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

468

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Arrive, Climax

Reading

Parts

一One 厶Private 土Soil

Example Word

至る所: everywhere. The Japanese noun '至る所 (いたるところ)' means 'everywhere'. It is used to describe a situation or condition that is present in all places or locations. This word is often used to emphasize the widespread nature of something. For example: There are flowers everywhere「至る所に花がある」(いたるところにはながある). Problems are everywhere「至る所に問題がある」(いたるところにもんだいがある). The word can also be used in a more abstract sense, such as 'everywhere in the world'「世界の至る所」(せかいのいたるところ).

Radical

至

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

480

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Poetry

Reading

Parts

訁Say (言)寺Temple

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

志: aspiration. The Japanese suffix '志 (し)' is used to denote aspiration, ambition, or intention. It is often attached to nouns to form compound words that describe a person's goals or desires. For example: a person with a strong aspiration to become a doctor「医者志の学生」(いしゃしのがくせい). This suffix is commonly used in contexts related to career goals, personal ambitions, or specific intentions. It can also be seen in words like '学者志 (がくしゃし)', meaning 'aspiring scholar', or '作家志 (さっかし)', meaning 'aspiring writer'. Note that '志' can also be used as a standalone noun meaning 'will' or 'intention', but as a suffix, it specifically conveys the idea of aspiration or ambition.

Radical

心

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

568

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Show, Indicate

Reading

Parts

二Two 小Small

Example Word

開示: disclosure. The Japanese noun '開示 (かいじ)' means 'disclosure'. It refers to the act of making information, facts, or data known to others, often in a formal or legal context. This term is commonly used in legal, corporate, or administrative settings where transparency is required. For example: The company made a public disclosure of its financial records「会社は財務記録を開示しました」(かいしゃはざいむきろくをかいじしました). The court ordered the disclosure of evidence「裁判所は証拠の開示を命じた」(さいばんしょはしょうこのかいじをめいじた). Note that '開示' is often used in contexts involving legal obligations or ethical transparency.

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: arrow. The Japanese noun '矢 (や)' means 'arrow'. This word refers to the projectile weapon used in archery, typically consisting of a straight, thin shaft with a sharp point at one end and feathers at the other for stabilization. It is commonly used in contexts related to archery, hunting, or historical battles. For example: He shot an arrow「彼は矢を放った」(かれはやをはなった). The arrow hit the target「矢は的に当たった」(やはまとにあたった). In Japanese culture, arrows also hold symbolic meanings, often associated with protection or warding off evil spirits, as seen in traditional rituals or decorations like '破魔矢 (はまや)' (ritual arrow).

Radical

矢

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

637

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

See, Look

Reading

Parts

礻Cult (示)見See

Example Word

重視: emphasis. The Japanese verbal noun '重視 (じゅうし)' means 'emphasis' or 'importance'. It is used to indicate that something is given significant attention or priority. This term is often used in contexts where certain aspects, values, or factors are considered more critical than others. For example: The company places emphasis on customer satisfaction「会社は顧客満足を重視する」(かいしゃはこきゃくまんぞくをじゅうしする). Education is given importance in this country「この国では教育が重視される」(このくにではきょういくがじゅうしされる). The word can also be used in various contexts, such as business, education, and personal values, to highlight the significance of a particular element.

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

木Tree, Wood 支Branch, Support

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

訁Say (言)式Style, Ceremony

Example Word

試す: try or test. The Japanese verb '試す (ためす)' means 'to test' or 'to try'. It is used when someone wants to check the effectiveness, quality, or functionality of something. This verb can be applied to physical objects, methods, or even ideas. For example: I will test this new recipe「この新しいレシピを試す」(このあたらしいレシピをためす). He tried the new software「彼は新しいソフトウェアを試した」(かれはあたらしいソフトウェアをためした). The nuance of '試す' often implies an experimental or trial approach to see if something works or is suitable.

Radical

言

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

845

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Lawn, Turf

Reading

Parts

艹Grass 之

Example Word

芝生: lawn. The Japanese noun '芝生 (しばふ)' refers to a 'lawn' or an area of grass that is grown and maintained for decorative or recreational purposes. It is commonly used to describe grassy areas in parks, gardens, or around buildings. For example: The children are playing on the lawn「子供たちが芝生で遊んでいる」(こどもたちがしばふであそんでいる). The lawn in the park is very green「公園の芝生はとても青い」(こうえんのしばふはとてもあおい). This word is often associated with well-kept, manicured grass rather than wild or overgrown grass.

Radical

艸

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

862

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Capital, Resources

Reading

Parts

貝Shellfish 次Next

Example Word

資金: funds. The Japanese noun '資金 (しきん)' refers to 'funds' or 'capital'. It is commonly used in financial contexts to describe money that is available for a specific purpose, such as investment, business operations, or personal use. For example: We need funds to start the project「プロジェクトを始めるために資金が必要です」(ぷろじぇくとをはじめるためにしきんがひつようです). The company raised funds for expansion「会社は拡張のための資金を調達しました」(かいしゃはかくちょうのためのしきんをちょうたつしました). This word is often used in formal or business settings and can refer to both large and small amounts of money.

Radical

貝

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

874

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Stab

Reading

Parts

朿 刂Sword (刀)

Example Word

刺さる: pierce. The Japanese verb '刺さる (ささる)' means 'to pierce' or 'to be stuck into something'. It describes the action of something sharp penetrating or embedding itself into another object or surface. This verb is often used in contexts where an object, such as a needle, thorn, or splinter, becomes embedded in something else. For example: A thorn pierced my finger「とげが指に刺さった」(とげがゆびにささった). The arrow pierced the target「矢が的に刺さった」(やがまとにささった). Note that '刺さる' is an intransitive verb, meaning it focuses on the state of being pierced rather than the action of piercing itself. The transitive counterpart is '刺す (さす)', which means 'to pierce' or 'to stab'.

Radical

刀

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

880

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Thread

Reading

Parts

小Small 幺Slight

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

止Stop 米Rice 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

司会: hosting. The Japanese verbal noun '司会 (しかい)' refers to the act of hosting or presiding over an event, such as a meeting, ceremony, or TV show. It is commonly used to describe the role of a person who guides the flow of an event, introduces speakers, and ensures the event runs smoothly. For example: She is hosting the event「彼女は司会をしています」(かのじょはしかいをしています). He was the host of the conference「彼は会議の司会を務めました」(かれはかいぎのしかいをつとめました). The term emphasizes the responsibility and leadership involved in managing an event.

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

訁Say (言)司Director

Example Word

歌詞: lyrics. The Japanese noun '歌詞 (かし)' refers to the 'lyrics' of a song. It specifically denotes the words or text that make up a song, as opposed to the melody or music. This word is commonly used in contexts related to music, singing, or songwriting. For example: I wrote the lyrics for this song「この歌の歌詞を書きました」(このうたのかしをかきました). The lyrics of this song are beautiful「この歌の歌詞は美しい」(このうたのかしはうつくしい). It is important to note that '歌詞' is always used in the context of songs and not for other types of written or spoken words.

Radical

言

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

1187

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Purport, Delicious

Reading

Parts

日Day, Sun 匕Spoon

Example Word

趣旨: purpose. The Japanese noun '趣旨 (しゅし)' refers to the main point, purpose, or gist of something. It is often used in formal contexts to describe the intent or core idea behind a statement, document, or plan. For example: The purpose of this meeting is to discuss the budget「この会議の趣旨は予算について話し合うことです」(このかいぎのしゅしはよさんについてはなしあうことです). I understand the gist of your proposal「あなたの提案の趣旨は理解しました」(あなたのていあんのしゅしはりかいしました). This word is commonly used in legal, business, and academic settings to convey the essence or objective of a matter.

Radical

日

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

1438

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Inquire, Pay respects

Reading

Parts

亻Person (人)司Director

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

飠Eat (食)司Director

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

木Tree, Wood 市City, Market

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

貝Shellfish 易Easy

Radical

貝

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

1823

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Female

Reading

Parts

此 隹Bird

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

艹Grass 次Next

Radical

艸

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

2032

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Heir

Reading

Parts

口Mouth 冊Book, Volume 司Director

Radical

口

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

2043

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Selfish, Arbitrary

Reading

Parts

次Next 心Heart

Radical

心

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

2104

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Gift, Seriousness

Reading

Parts

執Seize, Execute 手Hand

Radical

手

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

2113

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Consult

Reading

Parts

訁Say (言)咨

Radical

言

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

2125

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Blessedness, Welfare

Reading

Parts

礻Cult (示)止Stop

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