Learn Japanese while reading Manga with our new Manga Reader Tool!

Nihongo

Classroom

Jōyō KanjiOrganized by Onyomi reading

かん kan

 

    kanji

    Meaning

    Interval, Space

    Reading

    kunyomi

    ma

    あいだ

    aida

    onyomiけん

    ken

    かん

    kan

    Parts

    Day, Sun Gate

    Example Word

    洋間: western room. The Japanese noun '洋間 (ようま)' refers to a 'western-style room'. This term is used to describe a room in a Japanese home that is furnished and decorated in a Western style, as opposed to traditional Japanese-style rooms (和室, わしつ). Western-style rooms typically have features like beds, chairs, and tables, rather than tatami mats and futons. Example sentences: The western-style room is spacious「洋間は広いです」(ようまはひろいです). We use the western-style room as a living room「洋間をリビングルームとして使っています」(ようまをりびんぐるーむとしてつかっています).

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    12

    JLPT

    N5

    Grade

    2

    Frequency

    21

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Feeling, Sensation

    Reading

    onyomiかん

    kan

    Parts

    Heart Same

    Example Word

    実感: realization. The Japanese verbal noun '実感 (じっかん)' refers to the feeling or awareness of something being real or tangible. It is often used to describe the moment when something becomes clear or when one truly understands or feels the reality of a situation. For example: I felt the reality of his words「彼の言葉を実感した」(かれのことばをじっかんした). She realized the importance of family「家族の大切さを実感した」(かぞくのたいせつさをじっかんした). This word is commonly used in contexts where emotions or understanding deepen, such as personal experiences or life lessons.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    13

    JLPT

    N3

    Grade

    3

    Frequency

    83

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Barrier, Related

    Reading

    kunyomiせき

    seki

    onyomiかん

    kan

    Parts

    Gate Close

    Example Word

    機関: organization or engine. The Japanese noun '機関 (きかん)' has two distinct meanings. The first meaning refers to an 'organization' or 'institution', often used in the context of public or official bodies. For example: The research institute is a government organization「その研究所は政府の機関です」(そのけんきゅうじょはせいふのきかんです). The second meaning refers to an 'engine' or 'mechanism', typically used in the context of machinery or vehicles. For example: The train's engine is very powerful「その電車の機関はとても強力です」(そのでんしゃのきかんはとてもきょうりょくです). The context in which '機関' is used will determine whether it refers to an organization or an engine.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    14

    JLPT

    N3

    Grade

    4

    Frequency

    215

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    View

    Reading

    kunyomi

    mi

    onyomiかん

    kan

    Parts

    Bird See

    Example Word

    客観: objectivity. The Japanese noun '客観 (きゃっかん)' refers to 'objectivity', which is the state or quality of being unbiased and not influenced by personal feelings or opinions. This term is often used in contexts such as scientific research, journalism, and philosophical discussions where an objective viewpoint is essential. For example: objectivity is important in research「研究では客観性が重要です」(けんきゅうではきゃっかんせいがじゅうようです). He tried to maintain objectivity in his analysis「彼は分析で客観性を保とうとした」(かれはぶんせきできゃっかんせいをたもとうとした). The term can also be used in contrast to '主観 (しゅかん)', which means 'subjectivity'.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    18

    JLPT

    N3

    Grade

    4

    Frequency

    321

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Government, Bureaucrat

    Reading

    onyomiかん

    kan

    Parts

    Roof Terraced hill

    Example Word

    長官: chief. The Japanese noun '長官 (ちょうかん)' refers to a high-ranking official or chief, typically in a government or organizational context. It is often used to denote someone in a leadership or administrative position, such as the head of a ministry or department. For example: The chief of the police department「警察庁の長官」(けいさつちょうのちょうかん). The minister is the chief of the ministry「大臣は省の長官です」(だいじんはしょうのちょうかんです). This term carries a formal tone and is commonly used in official or bureaucratic settings.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    8

    JLPT

    N3

    Grade

    4

    Frequency

    490

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Scroll

    Reading

    kunyomi

    ma

    まき

    maki

    onyomiかん

    kan

    Parts

    Oneself

    Example Word

    巻: volume. The Japanese suffix '巻 (かん)' is used to denote a volume or a book in a series. It is commonly attached to numbers to indicate the specific volume of a book, manga, or other serialized publications. For example: volume one「第一巻」(だいいっかん). volume three「第三巻」(だいさんかん). This suffix is also used in historical contexts to refer to scrolls or volumes of ancient texts. For instance: the first scroll of the tale「物語の第一巻」(ものがたりのだいいっかん). Note that '巻' can also be used in compound words to indicate a roll or coil, but this is less common in everyday usage.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    9

    JLPT

    N2

    Grade

    6

    Frequency

    572

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Cold

    Reading

    kunyomiさむ

    samu

    onyomiかん

    kan

    Parts

    Roof Together One Ice (水)

    Example Word

    寒い: cold. The Japanese adjective '寒い (さむい)' means 'cold'. It is primarily used to describe weather or a physical sensation of coldness. For example: It's cold today「今日は寒い」(きょうはさむい). I feel cold「寒いです」(さむいです). This word is often used to describe the temperature of the environment or how a person feels due to low temperatures. It can also be used metaphorically to describe a situation or atmosphere that feels emotionally cold or unwelcoming, though this usage is less common. For example: The room felt cold「部屋が寒い感じがした」(へやがさむいかんじがした).

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    12

    JLPT

    N3

    Grade

    3

    Frequency

    685

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Armor, Shell

    Reading

    kunyomi

    ka

    onyomiこう

    kou

    かん

    kan

    Parts

    Rice field

    Example Word

    甲: shell or first. The Japanese noun '甲 (こう)' has two distinct meanings. The first meaning refers to the shell of a turtle or tortoise, often used in traditional contexts or literature. For example: the turtle's shell is hard「亀の甲は硬い」(かめのこうはかたい). The second meaning is 'first' in a sequence, such as in the traditional ordering system (甲, 乙, 丙, etc.), which is similar to 'A, B, C' in English. For example: this is the first item「これは甲の項目です」(これはこうのこうもくです). The word is also used in compound words like '甲羅 (こうら)' (shell) or '甲乙 (こうおつ)' (first and second).

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    5

    JLPT

    N1

    Grade

    8

    Frequency

    696

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Building

    Reading

    kunyomiたて

    tate

    やかた

    yakata

    onyomiかん

    kan

    Parts

    Eat (食)Government, Bureaucrat

    Example Word

    館: hall. The Japanese suffix '館 (かん)' is commonly used to denote a building or facility dedicated to a specific purpose. It is often attached to nouns to form compound words that describe the type of building or establishment. For example: library「図書館」(としょかん), museum「博物館」(はくぶつかん), gym「体育館」(たいいくかん). This suffix is widely used in names of public and private buildings, indicating their function or the activities that take place there.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    16

    JLPT

    N4

    Grade

    3

    Frequency

    747

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Complete

    Reading

    onyomiかん

    kan

    Parts

    Roof Origin

    Example Word

    不完全: incomplete. The Japanese adjectival noun '不完全 (ふかんぜん)' means 'incomplete'. It is used to describe something that is not fully developed, finished, or perfect. This term can be applied to objects, ideas, systems, or processes. For example: The plan is incomplete「その計画は不完全だ」(そのけいかくはふかんぜんだ). His understanding of the topic is incomplete「彼のその話題の理解は不完全だ」(かれのそのわだいのりかいはふかんぜんだ). The word can also imply a sense of imperfection or deficiency, often used in contexts where something is lacking or not fully realized.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    7

    JLPT

    N3

    Grade

    4

    Frequency

    843

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Endure

    Reading

    kunyomi

    ko

    ta

    こた

    kota

    onyomiかん

    kan

    たん

    tan

    Parts

    Soil Extremely, Tremendously

    Example Word

    堪える: endure. The Japanese verb '堪える (こらえる)' means 'to endure' or 'to hold back'. It is used to describe the act of enduring or tolerating something difficult, such as pain, emotions, or a challenging situation. This verb often implies a sense of self-control or restraint. For example: He endured the pain「彼は痛みを堪えた」(かれはいたみをこらえた). She held back her tears「彼女は涙を堪えた」(かのじょはなみだをこらえた). The verb can also be used in contexts where someone is resisting an urge or impulse, such as holding back laughter or anger. It is important to note that this verb is often used in situations requiring mental or emotional strength.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    12

    JLPT

    N1

    Grade

    9

    Frequency

    971

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Check, Intuition

    Reading

    onyomiかん

    kan

    Parts

    Extremely, Tremendously Power

    Example Word

    勘違い: misunderstanding. The Japanese verbal noun '勘違い (かんちがい)' means 'misunderstanding' or 'mistaken assumption'. It refers to a situation where someone has misunderstood or misinterpreted something, often leading to confusion or incorrect conclusions. This word is commonly used in everyday conversation to describe minor or significant errors in perception or judgment. For example: I misunderstood the time「時間を勘違いした」(じかんをかんちがいした). She thought I was angry, but it was a misunderstanding「彼女は私が怒っていると勘違いした」(かのじょはわたしがおこっているとかんちがいした). The term can also imply a sense of self-awareness when realizing one's own mistake, as in 'I was mistaken'「勘違いしていた」(かんちがいしていた).

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    11

    JLPT

    N1

    Grade

    8

    Frequency

    982

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Accustomed

    Reading

    kunyomi

    na

    onyomiかん

    kan

    Parts

    Pierce, Sushi counter

    Example Word

    習慣: habit. The Japanese noun '習慣 (しゅうかん)' means 'habit'. It refers to a regular practice or routine that a person or group follows, often unconsciously. This word can be used to describe personal habits, cultural practices, or societal norms. For example: It's important to have good habits「良い習慣を持つことが大切です」(よいしゅうかんをもつことがたいせつです). His habit of waking up early is impressive「彼の早起きの習慣は素晴らしい」(かれのはやおきのしゅうかんはすばらしい). The word can also refer to customs or traditions, as in 'cultural habits'「文化の習慣」(ぶんかのしゅうかん).

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    14

    JLPT

    N3

    Grade

    5

    Frequency

    994

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Simplicity

    Reading

    onyomiかん

    kan

    Parts

    Bamboo (竹)Interval, Space

    Example Word

    簡単: easy. The Japanese adjectival noun '簡単 (かんたん)' means 'easy'. It is used to describe tasks, problems, or situations that are not difficult to understand or accomplish. This word is often used in casual and formal contexts alike. For example: This problem is easy「この問題は簡単です」(このもんだいはかんたんです). Cooking rice is easy「ご飯を炊くのは簡単です」(ごはんをたくのはかんたんです). Note that '簡単' can also imply simplicity or straightforwardness, as in '簡単な説明 (かんたんなせつめい) (simple explanation)'. It is commonly used in everyday conversation and is a versatile term for describing ease or simplicity.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    18

    JLPT

    N2

    Grade

    6

    Frequency

    1022

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Watch

    Reading

    onyomiかん

    kan

    Parts

    Hand Eye

    Example Word

    看板: signboard. The Japanese noun '看板 (かんばん)' refers to a 'signboard' or 'sign', typically used to display information such as the name of a business, advertisements, or directions. It is commonly seen outside shops, restaurants, and other establishments. For example: The signboard is bright「看板が明るい」(かんばんがあかるい). The restaurant's signboard is easy to see「レストランの看板が見やすい」(レストランのかんばんがみやすい). Additionally, '看板' can metaphorically refer to something that represents or symbolizes a business or organization, such as a flagship product or service.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    9

    JLPT

    N1

    Grade

    6

    Frequency

    1053

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    China

    Reading

    onyomiかん

    kan

    Parts

    Water (水)𦰩Violet

    Example Word

    漢字: kanji. The Japanese noun '漢字 (かんじ)' refers to 'kanji', which are the logographic characters borrowed from Chinese and used in the Japanese writing system. Kanji are used alongside hiragana and katakana, and each character typically represents a word or a meaningful part of a word. For example: I study kanji「私は漢字を勉強します」(わたしはかんじをべんきょうします). This kanji is difficult「この漢字は難しい」(このかんじはむずかしい). Kanji are essential for reading and writing in Japanese, and they often have multiple readings and meanings depending on the context.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    13

    JLPT

    N4

    Grade

    3

    Frequency

    1085

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Sweet

    Reading

    kunyomiあま

    ama

    onyomiかん

    kan

    Example Word

    甘い: sweet or lenient. The Japanese adjective '甘い (あまい)' primarily means 'sweet', referring to taste, but it can also mean 'lenient' or 'indulgent' when describing behavior or judgment. For example: this cake is sweet「このケーキは甘い」(このケーキはあまい). He is too lenient with his students「彼は生徒に甘い」(かれはせいとにあまい). The word can also imply naivety or being overly optimistic, as in '甘い考え (あまいかんがえ) (naive thinking)'. It's important to note that the context determines which meaning is intended.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    5

    JLPT

    N2

    Grade

    7

    Frequency

    1092

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Exchange

    Reading

    kunyomi

    ka

    onyomiかん

    kan

    Parts

    Hand (手)

    Example Word

    交換: exchange. The Japanese verbal noun '交換 (こうかん)' means 'exchange'. It refers to the act of giving one thing and receiving another in return. This word is commonly used in various contexts, such as exchanging goods, ideas, or information. For example: Let's exchange business cards「名刺を交換しましょう」(めいしをこうかんしましょう). We exchanged opinions「意見を交換しました」(いけんをこうかんしました). It can also be used in the context of exchanging items or services, such as in a store or during a conversation.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    12

    JLPT

    N2

    Grade

    8

    Frequency

    1106

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Dry

    Reading

    kunyomi

    hi

    ho

    onyomiかん

    kan

    Example Word

    若干: few or some. The Japanese noun '若干 (じゃっかん)' means 'some' or 'a few'. It is used to indicate a small or indefinite quantity of something. This word is often used in formal or written contexts to describe a modest amount or degree. For example: There are some problems「若干の問題がある」(じゃっかんのもんだいがある). A few people attended the meeting「若干の人が会議に出席した」(じゃっかんのひとがかいぎにしゅっせきした). Note that '若干' is more formal than alternatives like '少し (すこし)' or 'いくつか', and it is commonly used in reports, documents, or speeches.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    3

    JLPT

    N2

    Grade

    6

    Frequency

    1121

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Oversee

    Reading

    onyomiかん

    kan

    Parts

    Plate Servant, Retainer

    Example Word

    監査: audit. The Japanese noun '監査 (かんさ)' refers to an 'audit', which is a systematic examination or review of financial records, processes, or systems to ensure accuracy, compliance, or efficiency. This term is commonly used in business, finance, and legal contexts. For example: The company conducted an internal audit「会社は内部監査を行った」(かいしゃはないぶかんさをおこなった). The audit revealed discrepancies in the accounts「監査により帳簿の不一致が明らかになった」(かんさによりちょうぼのふいっちがあきらかになった). It is important to note that '監査' often implies a formal or official review process.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    15

    JLPT

    N1

    Grade

    7

    Frequency

    1161

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Dry

    Reading

    kunyomiかわ

    kawa

    ho

    onyomiかん

    kan

    Parts

    Car Beg

    Example Word

    乾かす: dry. The Japanese verb '乾かす (かわかす)' means 'to dry'. It is used to describe the action of removing moisture from something, such as clothes, hair, or dishes. This verb is transitive, meaning it requires a direct object. For example: I dried the clothes「洗濯物を乾かした」(せんたくものをかわかした). She dried her hair with a towel「彼女はタオルで髪を乾かした」(かのじょはタオルでかみをかわかした). It is important to note that '乾かす' is often used in everyday contexts, such as laundry or personal care, and is distinct from '乾く (かわく)', which is the intransitive form meaning 'to become dry'.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    11

    JLPT

    N2

    Grade

    7

    Frequency

    1181

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Pipe

    Reading

    kunyomiくだ

    kuda

    onyomiかん

    kan

    Parts

    Bamboo (竹)Government, Bureaucrat

    Example Word

    血管: blood vessel. The Japanese noun '血管 (けっかん)' refers to a 'blood vessel', which is a tubular structure that carries blood throughout the body. This term is commonly used in medical or biological contexts. For example: The blood vessel is narrow「血管が狭い」(けっかんがせまい). Blood vessels are essential for circulation「血管は循環に不可欠です」(けっかんはじゅんかんにふかけつです). The word can also appear in compound terms like '毛細血管 (もうさいけっかん)' (capillary), which refers to the smallest blood vessels in the body.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    14

    JLPT

    N2

    Grade

    4

    Frequency

    1184

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Sweat

    Reading

    kunyomiあせ

    ase

    onyomiかん

    kan

    Parts

    Water (水)Dry

    Example Word

    汗: sweat. The Japanese noun '汗 (あせ)' means 'sweat'. It refers to the moisture exuded through the pores of the skin, typically as a result of physical exertion, heat, or nervousness. This word is commonly used in everyday conversation and can be found in various contexts, such as describing physical activity, weather conditions, or emotional states. For example: I wiped the sweat from my forehead「額の汗を拭いた」(ひたいのあせをふいた). After running, I was covered in sweat「走った後、汗だくになった」(はしったあと、あせだくになった). It's also used metaphorically to describe hard work or effort, as in 'sweating over a task'.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    6

    JLPT

    N2

    Grade

    7

    Frequency

    1198

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Pierce, Sushi counter

    Reading

    kunyomi

    nu

    つらぬ

    tsuranu

    ぬき

    nuki

    onyomiかん

    kan

    Parts

    Shellfish

    Example Word

    貫く: pierce or persist. The Japanese verb '貫く (つらぬく)' has two primary meanings. The first is 'to pierce' or 'to penetrate', often used in a physical sense, such as piercing through an object. For example: The arrow pierced the target「矢が的を貫いた」(やがまとをつらぬいた). The second meaning is 'to persist' or 'to carry through', referring to maintaining a principle, belief, or course of action despite challenges. For example: He persisted in his beliefs「彼は信念を貫いた」(かれはしんねんをつらぬいた). This verb is versatile and can be used in both literal and metaphorical contexts, making it important to consider the surrounding context to determine the intended meaning.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    11

    JLPT

    N1

    Grade

    8

    Frequency

    1200

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Quiet, Leisure

    Reading

    onyomiかん

    kan

    Parts

    Gate Tree, Wood

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    12

    JLPT

    N1

    Grade

    9

    Frequency

    1313

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Magnanimous, Tolerance

    Reading

    kunyomiくつろ

    kutsuro

    onyomiかん

    kan

    Parts

    Roof

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    13

    JLPT

    N1

    Grade

    9

    Frequency

    1319

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Rejoice, Delight

    Reading

    onyomiかん

    kan

    Parts

    Bird Lack

    Example Word

    歓迎: welcome. The Japanese verbal noun '歓迎 (かんげい)' means 'welcome'. It is used to express a warm reception or acceptance of someone or something. This term is often used in formal or polite contexts, such as welcoming guests, new members, or ideas. For example: We welcome your opinion「あなたの意見を歓迎します」(あなたのいけんをかんげいします). The new employee was warmly welcomed「新しい従業員は温かく歓迎されました」(あたらしいじゅうぎょういんはあたたかくかんげいされました). It can also be used in phrases like '歓迎会 (かんげいかい)', which means 'welcome party'.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    15

    JLPT

    N1

    Grade

    7

    Frequency

    1371

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Ill, Afflicted

    Reading

    kunyomiわずら

    wazura

    onyomiかん

    kan

    Parts

    Heart Spit, Skewer

    Example Word

    疾患: disease. The Japanese noun '疾患 (しっかん)' refers to a disease or medical condition. It is a formal term often used in medical contexts to describe illnesses or disorders. For example: He suffers from a rare disease「彼は珍しい疾患に苦しんでいる」(かれはめずらしいしっかんにくるしんでいる). Early detection of the disease is important「疾患の早期発見は重要です」(しっかんのそうきはっけんはじゅうようです). This term is commonly used in medical reports, research, and discussions about health conditions.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    11

    JLPT

    N2

    Grade

    9

    Frequency

    1388

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Ring, Surround

    Reading

    onyomiかん

    kan

    Parts

    King

    Example Word

    循環: circulation. The Japanese noun '循環 (じゅんかん)' means 'circulation'. It refers to the movement or flow of something in a circular or recurring pattern. This word is commonly used in contexts such as blood circulation, environmental cycles, or the circulation of goods and money. For example: blood circulation is important for health「血液の循環は健康に重要です」(けつえきのじゅんかんはけんこうにじゅうようです). The circulation of money stimulates the economy「お金の循環が経済を活性化します」(おかねのじゅんかんがけいざいをかっせいかします). It can also be used metaphorically to describe the cyclical nature of events or ideas.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    17

    JLPT

    N1

    Grade

    7

    Frequency

    1416

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Fall in, Collapse

    Reading

    kunyomiおちい

    ochii

    おとしい

    otoshii

    onyomiかん

    kan

    Parts

    Wrap Old, Past

    Example Word

    陥る: fall or sink. The Japanese verb '陥る (おちいる)' primarily means 'to fall into' or 'to sink into'. It is often used to describe falling into a state, condition, or situation, typically one that is negative or undesirable. For example: he fell into despair「彼は絶望に陥った」(かれはぜつぼうにおちいった). The company fell into financial trouble「その会社は財政難に陥った」(そのかいしゃはざいせいなんにおちいった). This verb can also imply a gradual or unintentional decline into a state, such as sinking into confusion or falling into a trap. It is commonly used in both literal and metaphorical contexts.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    10

    JLPT

    N1

    Grade

    9

    Frequency

    1422

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Crown, Cap

    Reading

    kunyomiかんむり

    kanmuri

    onyomiかん

    kan

    Parts

    Origin Measurement

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    9

    JLPT

    N1

    Grade

    8

    Frequency

    1425

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Warship

    Reading

    onyomiかん

    kan

    Parts

    Boat Oversee

    Example Word

    艦: warship. The Japanese suffix '艦 (かん)' refers to 'warship' or 'naval vessel'. It is commonly used in compound words to denote specific types of military ships. For example: battleship「戦艦」(せんかん), aircraft carrier「空母艦」(くうぼかん), and cruiser「巡洋艦」(じゅんようかん). This suffix is often seen in historical or military contexts and is not typically used in everyday conversation. Example sentences: The battleship is large「戦艦は大きい」(せんかんはおおきい). The aircraft carrier is powerful「空母艦は強い」(くうぼかんはつよい).

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    21

    JLPT

    N1

    Grade

    9

    Frequency

    1456

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Daring

    Reading

    kunyomi

    a

    onyomiかん

    kan

    Parts

    Down (下)Ear Strike

    Example Word

    敢えて: dare. The Japanese adverb '敢えて (あえて)' means 'dare' or 'deliberately'. It is used when someone does something intentionally, often despite potential risks, challenges, or social norms. This word carries a nuance of going against the usual expectations or taking a bold step. For example: I dare to say it「敢えて言います」(あえていいます). He deliberately chose the harder path「彼は敢えて難しい道を選んだ」(かれはあえてむずかしいみちをえらんだ). It can also imply doing something despite knowing it might not be the best or easiest choice, as in '敢えて挑戦する (あえてちょうせんする) (dare to challenge)'.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    12

    JLPT

    N1

    Grade

    8

    Frequency

    1478

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Trunk, Main

    Reading

    kunyomiみき

    miki

    onyomiかん

    kan

    Parts

    Car Dry

    Example Word

    幹部: executive. The Japanese noun '幹部 (かんぶ)' refers to an executive or a high-ranking official within an organization, such as a company, political party, or other group. It typically denotes someone in a leadership or managerial position who holds significant responsibility. For example: The executive made an important decision「幹部が重要な決定をした」(かんぶがじゅうようなけっていをした). She is a member of the company's executive team「彼女は会社の幹部です」(かのじょはかいしゃのかんぶです). The term is often used in formal or professional contexts and emphasizes the person's role in decision-making and leadership.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    13

    JLPT

    N1

    Grade

    5

    Frequency

    1480

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Return, Send back

    Reading

    kunyomiかえ

    kae

    onyomiかん

    kan

    Parts

    Walk

    Example Word

    返還: return or restoration. The Japanese noun '返還 (へんかん)' refers to the act of returning or restoring something to its original owner or place. It is often used in formal or legal contexts, such as the return of territory, property, or rights. For example: The return of the land to its original owner「土地の返還が行われた」(とちのへんかんがおこなわれた). The restoration of cultural artifacts to their country of origin「文化財の返還が決定した」(ぶんかざいのへんかんがけっていした). This term carries a formal tone and is commonly used in diplomatic, legal, or historical discussions.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    16

    JLPT

    N1

    Grade

    9

    Frequency

    1554

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Consider, Model

    Reading

    onyomiかん

    kan

    Parts

    Gold (金)Oversee

    Example Word

    印鑑: seal. The Japanese noun '印鑑 (いんかん)' refers to a personal seal or stamp used in place of a signature in Japan. It is an essential tool for formal agreements, contracts, and official documents. The seal is typically made of wood, stone, or plastic and is engraved with the owner's name or initials. Example sentences: Please stamp your seal here「ここに印鑑を押してください」(ここにいんかんをおしてください). I lost my seal「印鑑をなくしました」(いんかんをなくしました). In Japan, having a registered seal (実印, じついん) is often required for significant legal transactions.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    23

    JLPT

    N1

    Grade

    7

    Frequency

    1562

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Urge, Recommend

    Reading

    kunyomiすす

    susu

    onyomiかん

    kan

    Parts

    Bird Power

    Example Word

    勧める: urge or recommend. The Japanese verb '勧める (すすめる)' can mean 'to recommend' or 'to urge'. When used to mean 'recommend', it often refers to suggesting something to someone, such as a product, activity, or idea. For example: I recommend this book「この本を勧めます」(このほんをすすめます). When used to mean 'urge', it implies encouraging or persuading someone to take a specific action. For example: He urged me to apply for the job「彼は私にその仕事に応募するよう勧めた」(かれはわたしにそのしごとにおうぼするようすすめた). The verb is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts, and its meaning depends on the situation and the speaker's intent.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    13

    JLPT

    N1

    Grade

    7

    Frequency

    1565

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Publish, Edition

    Reading

    onyomiかん

    kan

    Parts

    Dry Sword (刀)

    Example Word

    夕刊: evening newspaper. The Japanese noun '夕刊 (ゆうかん)' means 'evening newspaper.' This word refers to a newspaper that is published and distributed in the evening, typically containing the latest news and updates of the day. It is often contrasted with '朝刊 (ちょうかん)', which is the morning edition. Example sentences include: I read the evening newspaper every day 「私は毎日夕刊を読みます」 (わたしはまいにちゆうかんをよみます). The evening newspaper has more local news 「夕刊には地元のニュースが多い」 (ゆうかんにはじもとのニュースがおおい). Note that '夕刊' is specifically used to refer to newspapers and not other types of evening publications.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    5

    JLPT

    N2

    Grade

    5

    Frequency

    1585

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Liver

    Reading

    kunyomiきも

    kimo

    onyomiかん

    kan

    Parts

    Meat Dry

    Example Word

    肝: liver. The Japanese noun '肝 (きも)' primarily refers to the 'liver' as an organ in the body. However, it is also used metaphorically to describe courage, spirit, or the essence of something. For example: eating liver is healthy「肝を食べるのは健康にいい」(きもをたべるのはけんこうにいい). He has a lot of courage「彼は肝が据わっている」(かれはきもがすわっている). The word can also appear in idiomatic expressions, such as '肝に銘じる (きもにめいじる)', which means 'to take something to heart' or 'to remember something firmly.'

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    7

    JLPT

    N1

    Grade

    8

    Frequency

    1591

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Yell, Call

    Reading

    kunyomiわめく

    wameku

    わめ

    wame

    onyomiかん

    kan

    Parts

    Mouth

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    12

    JLPT

    N1

    Grade

    8

    Frequency

    1592

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Easy, Loose

    Reading

    kunyomiゆる

    yuru

    onyomiかん

    kan

    Parts

    Thread

    Example Word

    緩む: loosen. The Japanese verb '緩む (ゆるむ)' means 'to loosen' or 'to slacken'. It describes something becoming less tight, less tense, or less strict. This verb can be used in both physical and abstract contexts. For example: The rope loosened「ロープが緩んだ」(ロープがゆるんだ). His expression softened「彼の表情が緩んだ」(かれのひょうじょうがゆるんだ). It can also describe a situation becoming less strict, such as rules or regulations: The rules have loosened「規則が緩んだ」(きそくがゆるんだ). Note that '緩む' often implies a gradual or natural process of becoming less tight or tense.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    15

    JLPT

    N1

    Grade

    8

    Frequency

    1731

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Coffin, Casket

    Reading

    onyomiかん

    kan

    Parts

    Tree, Wood Government, Bureaucrat

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    12

    JLPT

    N1

    Grade

    9

    Frequency

    1779

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Regret, Remorse

    Reading

    kunyomiうら

    ura

    onyomiかん

    kan

    Parts

    Feeling, Sensation

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    16

    JLPT

    N1

    Grade

    9

    Frequency

    1851

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Korea

    Reading

    onyomiかん

    kan

    Parts

    Eminent (卓)

    Example Word

    日韓: japan korea. The Japanese noun '日韓 (にっかん)' refers to the relationship or connection between Japan and Korea. It is often used in contexts discussing political, cultural, or economic ties between the two countries. For example: The Japan-Korea summit was held「日韓サミットが開催された」(にっかんサミットがかいさいされた). The Japan-Korea relationship is improving「日韓関係は改善している」(にっかんかんけいはかいぜんしている). This term is commonly used in news articles, diplomatic discussions, and historical contexts.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    18

    Grade

    10

    Frequency

    1951

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Can, Tin can

    Reading

    onyomiかん

    kan

    Example Word

    缶詰: canned food. The Japanese noun '缶詰 (かんづめ)' refers to 'canned food'. This term is used to describe food that has been preserved and sealed in cans. It is commonly used in everyday conversation when referring to various types of canned goods, such as vegetables, fruits, or meats. For example: I bought canned tuna「缶詰のツナを買いました」(かんづめのツナをかいました). Canned food is convenient for camping「缶詰はキャンプに便利です」(かんづめはキャンプにべんりです). Additionally, '缶詰' can also metaphorically describe a situation where someone is confined or isolated, similar to being 'canned', though this usage is less common and more contextual.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    6

    JLPT

    N2

    Grade

    9

    Frequency

    1991

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Article, Goodwill

    Reading

    onyomiかん

    kan

    Parts

    Samurai Show, Indicate Lack

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    12

    JLPT

    N1

    Grade

    9

    Frequency

    2117

    Handwriting

Page 1 of 1

1 - 46 of 46

Onyomi reading Groups

Group 4 of 305