kanji

Meaning

Child

Reading

Parts

了Finish, Complete 一One

Example Word

分子: molecule. The Japanese noun '分子 (ぶんし)' primarily means 'molecule', referring to the smallest unit of a chemical compound that retains its chemical properties. It is commonly used in scientific contexts, particularly in chemistry and physics. For example: Water is made up of molecules「水は分子でできている」(みずはぶんしでできている). This term can also be used metaphorically to describe a fundamental part or element of something, though this usage is less common. For instance: He is a key molecule in the organization「彼は組織の重要な分子だ」(かれはそしきのじゅうようなぶんしだ).

Radical

子

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

7

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Think

Reading

Parts

心Heart 田Rice field

Example Word

思い込む: assume or convince. The Japanese verb '思い込む (おもいこむ)' has two distinct meanings. The first meaning is 'to convince oneself,' often implying a strong belief in something that may or may not be true. For example: He convinced himself that he was right「彼は自分が正しいと思い込んだ」(かれはじぶんがただしいとおもいこんだ). The second meaning is 'to assume' or 'to take for granted,' often without sufficient evidence. For example: She assumed he would come「彼女は彼が来ると思い込んでいた」(かのじょはかれがくるとおもいこんでいた). This verb is commonly used in situations where someone holds a belief firmly, sometimes to the point of being mistaken or stubborn.

Radical

心

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

9

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Private, Me

Reading

Parts

禾Cereal 厶Private

Example Word

私的: personal. The Japanese adjectival noun '私的 (してき)' means 'personal'. It is used to describe something that is related to an individual's private life, opinions, or interests, rather than being public or official. This term often carries a nuance of being subjective or not related to formal or professional matters. For example: This is my personal opinion「これは私的な意見です」(これはしてきないけんです). He has a personal connection to the case「彼はその事件に私的なつながりがある」(かれはそのじけんにしてきなつながりがある). Note that '私的' is often used in contrast to '公的 (こうてき)', which means 'public' or 'official'.

Radical

禾

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

15

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Self

Reading

Parts

目Eye 丿Katakana no

Example Word

自転: rotation. The Japanese noun '自転 (じてん)' refers to the act of rotating or spinning, particularly around an axis. It is often used in scientific or technical contexts, such as describing the rotation of celestial bodies or mechanical parts. For example: The Earth's rotation is called '自転'「地球の自転は『自転』と呼ばれる」(ちきゅうのじてんは『じてん』とよばれる). The wheel's rotation is smooth「車輪の自転は滑らかだ」(しゃりんのじてんはなめらかだ). Note that '自転' is distinct from '公転 (こうてん)', which refers to orbital motion around another object.

Radical

自

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

20

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Four

Reading

Parts

儿Legs 口Mouth

Example Word

四つ: four. The Japanese noun '四つ (よっつ)' means 'four'. It is a traditional way of counting items, often used in contexts like counting objects, ages, or in traditional settings. This term is part of the native Japanese counting system (as opposed to the Sino-Japanese system). For example: there are four apples「りんごが四つある」(りんごがよっつある). The child is four years old「その子は四つです」(そのこはよっつです). Note that '四つ' is less commonly used in modern, everyday conversation, where '四 (よん)' is more prevalent.

Radical

囗

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

77

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Next

Reading

Parts

冫Ice (水)欠Lack

Example Word

次々に: one after another. The Japanese adverb '次々に (つぎつぎに)' means 'one after another' or 'in succession.' It is used to describe events or actions that happen in rapid succession without pause. This adverb is often used to convey a sense of continuity or flow. Example: New students kept arriving one after another 「新しい学生が次々に到着した」 (あたらしいがくせいがつぎつぎにとうちゃくした). The flowers bloomed in succession 「花が次々に咲いた」 (はながつぎつぎにさいた). This adverb can be used in various contexts, including describing events, actions, or occurrences.

Radical

欠

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

101

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Death

Reading

Parts

匕Spoon 歹Bad

Example Word

死後: afterlife. The Japanese noun '死後 (しご)' refers to the state or period after death, commonly translated as 'afterlife'. It is used in contexts discussing life after death, spiritual beliefs, or philosophical discussions about existence beyond physical death. For example: He believed in the afterlife「彼は死後を信じていた」(かれはしごをしんじていた). The concept of the afterlife varies across cultures「死後の概念は文化によって異なる」(しごのがいねんはぶんかによってことなる). This term is often used in religious, spiritual, or philosophical contexts and carries a formal tone.

Radical

歹

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

120

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Serve

Reading

Parts

亻Person (人)士Samurai

Example Word

仕組み: structure or mechanism. The Japanese noun '仕組み (しくみ)' refers to the mechanism or structure of something, often describing how a system, device, or process works. It can be used in both literal and abstract contexts. For example: the mechanism of this machine is complex「この機械の仕組みは複雑だ」(このきかいのしくみはふくざつだ). The structure of this organization is well-designed「この組織の仕組みはよく考えられている」(このそしきのしくみはよくかんがえられている). The word can also imply the underlying framework or arrangement of something, such as a plan or system.

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

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

手紙: letter. The Japanese noun '手紙 (てがみ)' means 'letter', referring to a written message typically sent to someone. It is commonly used to describe personal correspondence, such as letters written by hand or typed. For example: I received a letter from my friend「友達から手紙をもらった」(ともだちからてがみをもらった). She writes a letter every week「彼女は毎週手紙を書く」(かのじょはまいしゅうてがみをかく). The word can also imply a sense of thoughtfulness or effort, as it often involves personal communication rather than digital messages.

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

始まり: beginning. The Japanese noun '始まり (はじまり)' means 'beginning'. It refers to the start or commencement of something, such as an event, process, or period. This word is often used in both formal and informal contexts to describe the initial stage of something. For example: the beginning of the story「物語の始まり」(ものがたりのはじまり). The beginning of a new era「新しい時代の始まり」(あたらしいじだいのはじまり). It can also be used metaphorically, such as in 'the beginning of a journey'「旅の始まり」(たびのはじまり).

Radical

女

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

267

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Use

Reading

Parts

亻Person (人)吏Officer, Official

Example Word

使命: mission. The Japanese noun '使命 (しめい)' means 'mission'. This word is used to describe a task or duty that one is assigned or feels compelled to complete, often with a sense of importance or destiny. It can be used in various contexts, such as professional, personal, or even spiritual missions. For example: He felt it was his mission to help others「彼は人を助けることが自分の使命だと思った」(かれはひとをたすけることがじぶんのしめいだとおもった). The company's mission is to innovate「その会社の使命は革新することだ」(そのかいしゃのしめいはかくしんすることだ). This word carries a strong sense of responsibility and purpose.

Radical

人

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

271

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Master, Expert

Reading

Example Word

師走: December. The Japanese noun '師走 (しわす)' refers to the month of December, the twelfth and final month of the year. The term is deeply rooted in Japanese culture and tradition, often associated with the busy end-of-year activities, such as preparing for the New Year. The word itself has an interesting etymology, with one theory suggesting that it comes from the idea of even Buddhist monks (師) running around (走る) busily during this month. Example sentences: December is a busy month「師走は忙しい月です」(しわすはいそがしいつきです). I will visit my family in December「師走に家族を訪ねます」(しわすにかぞくをたずねます).

Radical

巾

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

288

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Branch, Support

Reading

Parts

十Ten 又Again

Example Word

支店: branch. The Japanese noun '支店 (してん)' refers to a 'branch' of a company, store, or organization. It is commonly used to describe a secondary location or office that operates under the main headquarters. For example: The bank has a branch in Osaka「銀行は大阪に支店があります」(ぎんこうはおおさかにしてんがあります). I work at the Tokyo branch「私は東京の支店で働いています」(わたしはとうきょうのしてんではたらいています). This term is often used in business contexts to specify locations of offices, stores, or institutions.

Radical

支

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

347

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Finger

Reading

Parts

扌Hand (手)旨Purport, Delicious

Example Word

指摘: pointing out. The Japanese verbal noun '指摘 (してき)' means 'pointing out' or 'indicating'. It is used to describe the act of identifying or highlighting something, often a mistake, issue, or important detail. This word is commonly used in formal or professional contexts, such as meetings, reports, or discussions. For example: The teacher pointed out the mistake in my homework「先生は私の宿題の間違いを指摘した」(せんせいはわたしのしゅくだいのまちがいをしてきした). The report pointed out the need for further research「そのレポートはさらなる研究の必要性を指摘した」(そのレポートはさらになるけんきゅうのひつようせいをしてきした). Note that '指摘' is often followed by the particle 'を' when used as a direct object.

Radical

手

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

359

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Stop

Reading

Parts

上Up 丨Stick

Example Word

受け止める: accept or catch. The Japanese verb '受け止める (うけとめる)' has two primary meanings. The first is 'to catch', as in physically catching something. For example: he caught the ball「彼はボールを受け止めた」(かれはボールをうけとめた). The second meaning is 'to accept', often used in a more abstract or emotional sense, such as accepting responsibility or feelings. For example: she accepted his feelings「彼女は彼の気持ちを受け止めた」(かのじょはかれのきもちをうけとめた). This verb is versatile and can be used in both literal and figurative contexts, making it important to consider the surrounding words to determine the intended meaning.

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

市民: citizen. The Japanese noun '市民 (しみん)' means 'citizen'. It refers to a person who is a member of a particular city, town, or country, and who has rights and responsibilities within that community. This term is often used in contexts related to civic duties, local governance, and community involvement. For example: The citizens of this city are very active「この街の市民はとても活発です」(このまちのしみんはとてもかっぱつです). She is a proud citizen of Tokyo「彼女は東京の誇り高い市民です」(かのじょはとうきょうのほこりたかいしみんです). The word can also be used in broader contexts to refer to people who are part of a larger society or community, emphasizing their role and participation.

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

詩人: poet. The Japanese noun '詩人 (しじん)' means 'poet'. It refers to a person who writes poetry, often professionally or as a significant part of their creative expression. This word is used to describe individuals who are skilled in the art of poetry and may be associated with literary or artistic circles. For example: He is a famous poet「彼は有名な詩人です」(かれはゆうめいなしじんです). She wants to become a poet「彼女は詩人になりたいです」(かのじょはしじんになりたいです). The term can also carry a sense of romanticism or artistic depth, depending on the context.

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

二Two 小Small

Example Word

掲示板: bulletin board. The Japanese noun '掲示板 (けいじばん)' refers to a 'bulletin board' or 'notice board'. It is commonly used to describe a physical or digital board where information, announcements, or messages are posted for public viewing. In modern contexts, it often refers to online forums or message boards. For example: I saw the notice on the bulletin board「掲示板にそのお知らせを見ました」(けいじばんにそのおしらせをみました). This online forum is very active「この掲示板はとても活発です」(このけいじばんはとてもかっぱつです). The word is widely used in both physical and digital contexts, making it a versatile term in Japanese.

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

警視: police inspector. The Japanese noun '警視 (けいし)' refers to the police rank of 'inspector' in Japan. It is used to describe a rank within the Japanese Police hierarchy, specifically a rank above sergeant and below superintendent. Example: He is an inspector 「彼は警視です」 (かれはけいしです). The inspector arrived at the scene 「警視が現場に到着した」 (けいしがげんばにとうちゃくした). This term is used in official contexts and is not commonly used in casual conversation.

Radical

見

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

644

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Older sister

Reading

Parts

女Woman 市City, Market

Example Word

姉妹: sisters. The Japanese noun '姉妹 (しまい)' refers to 'sisters'. It specifically denotes a pair or group of female siblings. This term is often used in contexts discussing family relationships or to metaphorically describe close relationships between entities, such as sister cities or sister schools. For example: They are sisters「彼女たちは姉妹です」(かのじょたちはしまいです). Our school has a sister school in Japan「私たちの学校は日本に姉妹校があります」(わたしたちのがっこうはにほんにしまいこうがあります). The term can also be used in broader contexts to describe things that are closely related or paired, such as 'sister companies'.

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

貝Shellfish 次Next

Example Word

資産: assets. The Japanese noun '資産 (しさん)' refers to 'assets' in the sense of valuable resources or property owned by an individual, company, or organization. It is commonly used in financial, business, and legal contexts to describe things like money, real estate, investments, or other valuables. For example: He has a lot of assets「彼は多くの資産を持っている」(かれはおおくのしさんをもっている). The company's assets increased「会社の資産が増えた」(かいしゃのしさんがふえた). The word can also be used metaphorically to describe non-material assets, such as skills or knowledge, though this is less common.

Radical

貝

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

874

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Stab

Reading

Parts

朿 刂Sword (刀)

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

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

歯医者: dentist. The Japanese noun '歯医者 (はいしゃ)' means 'dentist'. It refers to a medical professional who specializes in the care and treatment of teeth and oral health. This word is commonly used in everyday conversation when discussing dental appointments or issues. For example: I went to the dentist「歯医者に行きました」(はいしゃにいきました). The dentist is kind「その歯医者は優しいです」(そのはいしゃはやさしいです). It is important to note that '歯医者' is often used interchangeably with '歯科医 (しかい)', though '歯医者' is more casual and commonly used in spoken language.

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

訁Say (言)司Director

Example Word

台詞: lines. The Japanese noun '台詞 (せりふ)' refers to the lines or dialogue spoken by a character in a play, movie, or any performance. It can also be used more broadly to refer to what someone says in a particular situation, often implying that the words are scripted or rehearsed. For example: The actor forgot his lines「俳優は台詞を忘れた」(はいゆうはせりふをわすれた). She always has the same lines「彼女はいつも同じ台詞を言う」(かのじょはいつもおなじせりふをいう). This term is commonly used in the context of theater and film, but can also be applied to everyday situations where someone is repeating a familiar or expected statement.

Radical

言

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

1187

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Purport, Delicious

Reading

Parts

日Day, Sun 匕Spoon

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

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