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Nihongo

Classroom

Jōyō KanjiOrganized by Onyomi reading

とう tou

 

    kanji

    Meaning

    Hit, Appropriate

    Reading

    kunyomi

    a

    onyomiとう

    tou

    Parts

    Small (小)Katakana yo

    Example Word

    抵当: mortgage. The Japanese noun '抵当 (ていとう)' refers to a 'mortgage' or 'collateral'. It is used in financial and legal contexts to describe property or assets pledged as security for a loan. If the borrower fails to repay the loan, the lender can take possession of the collateral. For example: The house is used as collateral for the loan「その家はローンに抵当に入れられている」(そのいえはローンにていとうにいれられている). He lost his property because he couldn't repay the mortgage「彼は抵当の返済ができずに財産を失った」(かれはていとうのへんさいができずにざいさんをうしなった). This term is commonly used in banking and real estate discussions.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    6

    JLPT

    N3

    Grade

    2

    Frequency

    92

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Head

    Reading

    kunyomiあたま

    atama

    かしら

    kashira

    onyomiとう

    tou

    zu

    Parts

    Beans 𦣻Neck (首)Eight

    Example Word

    先頭: front. The Japanese noun '先頭 (せんとう)' means 'front' or 'head' and refers to the foremost part or position of something, such as a line, group, or procession. It is often used to describe the leading position in a physical or metaphorical sense. For example: He is at the front of the line「彼は列の先頭にいます」(かれはれつのせんとうにいます). The team leader is at the head of the group「チームリーダーはグループの先頭にいます」(チームリーダーはグループのせんとうにいます). This word can also be used in contexts like races, marches, or any situation where order or position matters.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    16

    JLPT

    N3

    Grade

    2

    Frequency

    129

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Equal

    Reading

    kunyomiひと

    hito

    ra

    onyomiとう

    tou

    Parts

    Bamboo (竹)Temple

    Example Word

    高等: high level. The Japanese adjectival noun '高等 (こうとう)' means 'high-level' or 'advanced'. It is often used to describe something of a higher grade, rank, or complexity. For example, it is commonly used in educational contexts to refer to advanced studies or institutions, such as high schools or higher education. Example sentences: This is a high-level course「これは高等なコースです」(これはこうとうなコースです). He attends a high-level school「彼は高等な学校に通っています」(かれはこうとうながっこうにかよっています). The term can also be used in other contexts to describe advanced or sophisticated things, such as technology or skills.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    12

    JLPT

    N3

    Grade

    3

    Frequency

    164

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    East

    Reading

    kunyomiひがし

    higashi

    onyomiとう

    tou

    Parts

    Tree, Wood Day, Sun

    Example Word

    東: east. The Japanese noun '東 (ひがし)' means 'east'. It refers to one of the four cardinal directions and is commonly used in geographical contexts, such as describing locations or directions. For example: The sun rises in the east「太陽は東から昇る」(たいようはひがしからのぼる). Kyoto is east of Osaka「京都は大阪の東にある」(きょうとはおおさかのひがしにある). The word can also be used in compound words, such as '東日本 (ひがしにほん)' meaning 'eastern Japan'.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    8

    JLPT

    N5

    Grade

    2

    Frequency

    233

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Island

    Reading

    kunyomiしま

    shima

    onyomiとう

    tou

    Parts

    Mountain Bird

    Example Word

    諸島: archipelago. The Japanese noun '諸島 (しょとう)' refers to an 'archipelago', which is a group or chain of islands. This term is often used in geographical contexts to describe clusters of islands, such as the Japanese archipelago itself. For example: The Japanese archipelago consists of many islands「日本の諸島は多くの島々から成る」(にほんのしょとうはおおくのしまじまからなる). The Ryukyu Islands are a famous archipelago「琉球諸島は有名な諸島です」(りゅうきゅうしょとうはゆうめいなしょとうです). The term can also be used metaphorically to describe any group or collection of similar things, though this usage is less common.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    10

    JLPT

    N2

    Grade

    3

    Frequency

    292

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Answer

    Reading

    kunyomiこた

    kota

    onyomiとう

    tou

    Parts

    Fit, Match Bamboo

    Example Word

    答え: answer. The Japanese noun '答え (こたえ)' means 'answer'. It is used to refer to a response to a question, problem, or situation. This word is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts. For example: What is the answer?「答えは何ですか?」(こたえはなんですか?). I know the answer「答えを知っています」(こたえをしっています). It can also be used metaphorically to describe a solution or resolution to a problem. For instance: The answer to this problem is simple「この問題の答えは簡単です」(このもんだいのこたえはかんたんです).

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    12

    JLPT

    N4

    Grade

    2

    Frequency

    392

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Escape

    Reading

    kunyomi

    no

    ni

    のが

    noga

    onyomiとう

    tou

    Parts

    Walk Omen, Trillion

    Example Word

    逃がす: release. The Japanese verb '逃がす (にがす)' primarily means 'to release' or 'to let go'. It is often used when someone intentionally allows something or someone to escape or be freed. For example: I released the bird「鳥を逃がした」(とりをにがした). He let the fish go「彼は魚を逃がした」(かれはさかなをにがした). This verb can also imply a missed opportunity, such as letting a chance slip away. For example: I let the opportunity slip「チャンスを逃がした」(チャンスをにがした). The nuance here is that the action is deliberate, and the subject is allowing something to escape or be lost.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    9

    JLPT

    N3

    Grade

    7

    Frequency

    446

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Wisteria

    Reading

    kunyomiふじ

    fuji

    onyomiどう

    dou

    とう

    tou

    Parts

    Grass

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    18

    JLPT

    N1

    Grade

    10

    Frequency

    451

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Sword

    Reading

    kunyomi

    chi

    かたな

    katana

    onyomiとう

    tou

    Parts

    丿Katakana no 𠃌Enclosure

    Example Word

    刀: sword. The Japanese noun '刀 (かたな)' refers to a traditional Japanese sword, particularly the single-edged, curved blade used by samurai. It is a culturally significant weapon in Japan, often associated with the samurai class and martial arts. The term can also be used more broadly to refer to any type of sword, but it is most commonly associated with the katana. Example sentences: He owns a beautiful sword「彼は美しい刀を持っている」(かれはうつくしいかたなをもっている). The sword is sharp「その刀は鋭い」(そのかたなはするどい).

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    2

    JLPT

    N1

    Grade

    2

    Frequency

    603

    Radical Form

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Throw

    Reading

    kunyomi

    na

    onyomiとう

    tou

    Parts

    Hand (手)Pike

    Example Word

    投票: voting. The Japanese verbal noun '投票 (とうひょう)' means 'voting'. It refers to the act of casting a vote, typically in an election or decision-making process. This word is commonly used in contexts related to elections, referendums, or any situation where a formal decision is made through votes. For example: I will participate in the voting「私は投票に参加します」(わたしはとうひょうにさんかします). The voting results were announced「投票結果が発表された」(とうひょうけっかがはっぴょうされた). It is important to note that '投票' is often used in formal or official contexts and is a key term in discussions about democracy and governance.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    7

    JLPT

    N3

    Grade

    3

    Frequency

    617

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Topple, Overthrow

    Reading

    kunyomiたお

    tao

    onyomiとう

    tou

    Parts

    Person (人)Reach, Arrival

    Example Word

    倒す: topple. The Japanese verb '倒す (たおす)' primarily means 'to topple' or 'to knock down'. It is used to describe the action of causing something or someone to fall over, either physically or metaphorically. For example: He toppled the opponent in the match「彼は試合で相手を倒した」(かれはしあいであいてをたおした). The storm toppled the trees「嵐が木を倒した」(あらしがきをたおした). Additionally, '倒す' can be used in a figurative sense, such as defeating an enemy or overcoming a challenge. For example: They toppled the corrupt government「彼らは腐敗した政府を倒した」(かれらはふはいしたせいふをたおした).

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    10

    JLPT

    N3

    Grade

    7

    Frequency

    662

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Ascend

    Reading

    kunyomiのぼ

    nobo

    onyomi

    to

    とう

    tou

    Parts

    Dotted tent Beans

    Example Word

    登記: registration. The Japanese noun '登記 (とうき)' refers to the legal registration of property, rights, or other official matters. It is commonly used in contexts involving real estate, land ownership, or legal documentation. For example: I completed the property registration「不動産の登記を済ませた」(ふどうさんのとうきをすませた). The land registration is required「土地の登記が必要です」(とちのとうきがひつようです). This term is often used in formal or legal settings and is essential for establishing legal ownership or rights.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    12

    JLPT

    N3

    Grade

    3

    Frequency

    666

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Hot water

    Reading

    kunyomi

    yu

    onyomiとう

    tou

    Parts

    Water (水)Sunray

    Example Word

    湯飲み: teacup. The Japanese noun '湯飲み (ゆのみ)' refers to a teacup, specifically a cup used for drinking tea. It is commonly used in Japanese households and tea ceremonies. The word is a combination of '湯 (ゆ)', meaning hot water or tea, and '飲み (のみ)', meaning drinking. Example sentences: Please pass me the teacup「湯飲みを取ってください」(ゆのみをとってください). This teacup is beautiful「この湯飲みはきれいです」(このゆのみはきれいです).

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    12

    JLPT

    N2

    Grade

    3

    Frequency

    716

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Step on, Step

    Reading

    kunyomi

    fu

    onyomiとう

    tou

    Parts

    Foot, Sufficient

    Example Word

    踏まえる: base. The Japanese verb '踏まえる (ふまえる)' means 'to base' or 'to ground' something on a particular foundation or premise. It is often used in contexts where decisions, arguments, or actions are founded on specific facts, principles, or circumstances. For example: The plan is based on accurate data「その計画は正確なデータに踏まえている」(そのけいかくはせいかくなデータにふまえている). His opinion is grounded in experience「彼の意見は経験に踏まえている」(かれのいけんはけいけんにふまえている). The verb can also imply a sense of taking something into account or considering it as a basis for further action.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    15

    JLPT

    N1

    Grade

    7

    Frequency

    736

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Light, Lamp

    Reading

    kunyomi

    hi

    onyomiとう

    tou

    Parts

    Fire Street

    Example Word

    灯: light. The Japanese suffix '灯 (とう)' means 'light' and is often used in compound words related to lighting or illumination. It is derived from the kanji 灯, which represents a lamp or light source. This suffix is commonly found in words like '街灯 (がいとう)' (streetlight) or '信号灯 (しんごうとう)' (traffic light). For example: The streetlight is bright「街灯が明るい」(がいとうがあかるい). The traffic light turned red「信号灯が赤になった」(しんごうとうがあかになった). Note that 灯 is rarely used as a standalone word and typically appears as part of compound nouns.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    6

    JLPT

    N2

    Grade

    4

    Frequency

    755

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Winter

    Reading

    kunyomiふゆ

    fuyu

    onyomiとう

    tou

    Parts

    Late Ice (水)

    Example Word

    冬休み: winter vacation. The Japanese noun '冬休み (ふゆやすみ)' refers to a 'winter vacation' or 'winter break'. This term is commonly used to describe the holiday period during winter, especially in schools and workplaces. It typically occurs around late December to early January, coinciding with the New Year holidays in Japan. For example: I will go skiing during winter vacation「冬休みにスキーに行きます」(ふゆやすみにスキーにいきます). Winter vacation is a time to relax「冬休みはリラックスする時間です」(ふゆやすみはリラックスするじかんです). The term is often associated with family gatherings, travel, and seasonal activities.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    5

    JLPT

    N4

    Grade

    2

    Frequency

    817

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Unite

    Reading

    kunyomi

    su

    onyomiとう

    tou

    Parts

    Thread Fill, Allocate

    Example Word

    統計: statistics. The Japanese verbal noun '統計 (とうけい)' refers to 'statistics'. It is used to describe the collection, analysis, interpretation, presentation, and organization of data. This term is commonly used in academic, scientific, and business contexts. For example: The statistics show an increase in population「統計は人口の増加を示している」(とうけいはじんこうのぞうかをしめしている). We need to analyze the statistics「統計を分析する必要がある」(とうけいをぶんせきするひつようがある). The word can also be used in compound terms like '統計学 (とうけいがく)' which means 'statistics (as a field of study)'.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    12

    JLPT

    N1

    Grade

    5

    Frequency

    834

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Reach, Arrival

    Reading

    onyomiとう

    tou

    Parts

    Arrive, Climax Sword (刀)

    Example Word

    到頭: finally. The Japanese adverb '到頭 (とうとう)' means 'finally' or 'at last'. It is used to indicate that something has happened after a long period of time or after much anticipation. This word often carries a nuance of relief, completion, or inevitability. For example: He finally arrived「彼は到頭到着した」(かれはとうとうとうちゃくした). The project is finally finished「そのプロジェクトは到頭終わった」(そのプロジェクトはとうとうおわった). Note that '到頭' is typically used in situations where the outcome was expected or inevitable, and it often implies a sense of closure.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    8

    JLPT

    N3

    Grade

    7

    Frequency

    858

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Settlement

    Reading

    kunyomi

    na

    おさ

    osa

    onyomiなん

    nan

    とう

    tou

    のう

    nou

    Parts

    Thread

    Example Word

    納豆: natto. The Japanese noun '納豆 (なっとう)' refers to 'natto', a traditional Japanese food made from fermented soybeans. It is known for its strong smell, sticky texture, and unique flavor. Natto is often eaten for breakfast and is considered a healthy food due to its high protein and probiotic content. It is typically served with rice, mustard, and soy sauce. Example sentences: I eat natto every morning「毎朝納豆を食べます」(まいあさなっとうをたべます). Natto is good for your health「納豆は健康に良いです」(なっとうはけんこうにいいです).

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    10

    JLPT

    N1

    Grade

    6

    Frequency

    904

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Party, Faction

    Reading

    onyomiとう

    tou

    Parts

    Older brother

    Example Word

    政党: political party. The Japanese noun '政党 (せいとう)' refers to a 'political party'. This term is used to describe an organized group of people who share similar political goals and work together to influence government policies and gain political power. For example: The new political party was established「新しい政党が設立された」(あたらしいせいとうがせつりつされた). He joined a major political party「彼は主要な政党に加入した」(かれはしゅようなせいとうかにゅうした). The term is commonly used in discussions about politics, elections, and governance.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    10

    JLPT

    N2

    Grade

    6

    Frequency

    1010

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Steal

    Reading

    kunyomiぬす

    nusu

    onyomiとう

    tou

    Parts

    Next Plate

    Example Word

    盗む: steal. The Japanese verb '盗む (ぬすむ)' means 'to steal'. It is used to describe the act of taking something that belongs to someone else without their permission. This verb can be used in various contexts, such as stealing physical objects, ideas, or even moments. For example: He stole my wallet「彼は私の財布を盗んだ」(かれはわたしのさいふをぬすんだ). She stole the idea from her colleague「彼女は同僚からそのアイデアを盗んだ」(かのじょはどうりょうからそのアイデアをぬすんだ). It's important to note that this verb carries a strong negative connotation and is considered a serious offense in Japanese culture.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    11

    JLPT

    N3

    Grade

    7

    Frequency

    1028

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Fight, Struggle

    Reading

    kunyomiたたか

    tataka

    onyomiとう

    tou

    Parts

    Gate Beans Measurement

    Example Word

    戦闘: battle. The Japanese noun '戦闘 (せんとう)' means 'battle' or 'combat'. It refers to a fight or conflict between armed forces, often in a war or military context. This word is commonly used in discussions about military operations, historical battles, or even metaphorical battles in non-physical contexts. For example: The battle was intense「戦闘は激しかった」(せんとうははげしかった). They engaged in combat「彼らは戦闘に参加した」(かれらはせんとうにさんかした). Note that '戦闘' is a formal term and is typically used in serious or professional contexts.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    18

    JLPT

    N1

    Grade

    7

    Frequency

    1108

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Chastise

    Reading

    kunyomi

    u

    onyomiとう

    tou

    Parts

    Say (言)Measurement

    Example Word

    検討: consideration or examination. The Japanese verbal noun '検討 (けんとう)' primarily means 'consideration' or 'examination'. It refers to the act of carefully thinking about or analyzing something, often in preparation for making a decision. This word is commonly used in formal or professional contexts, such as business meetings, academic discussions, or policy-making. For example: We will consider the proposal「提案を検討します」(ていあんをけんとうします). The committee is examining the plan「委員会はその計画を検討しています」(いいんかいはそのけいかくをけんとうしています). Note that '検討' often implies a thorough and deliberate process, and it is frequently paired with verbs like 'する' (to do) or '行う' (to carry out).

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    10

    JLPT

    N1

    Grade

    6

    Frequency

    1126

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Tang dynasty

    Reading

    kunyomiから

    kara

    onyomiとう

    tou

    Parts

    广Dotted cliff Mouth

    Example Word

    唐: China or Tang. The Japanese proper noun '唐 (とう)' primarily refers to the Tang Dynasty of China, which lasted from 618 to 907 AD. This term is often used in historical contexts to refer to this specific period. Additionally, '唐' can also be used more broadly to refer to China in general, especially in historical or literary contexts. For example: The Tang Dynasty was a golden age of Chinese culture「唐の時代は中国文化の黄金時代だった」(とうのじだいはちゅうごくぶんかのおうごんじだいだった). This art was influenced by Tang China「この芸術は唐の中国の影響を受けている」(このげいじゅつはとうのちゅうごくのえいきょうをうけている).

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    10

    Grade

    7

    Frequency

    1144

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Beans

    Reading

    kunyomiまめ

    mame

    onyomiとう

    tou

    zu

    Parts

    One Mouth Herbs

    Example Word

    納豆: natto. The Japanese noun '納豆 (なっとう)' refers to 'natto', a traditional Japanese food made from fermented soybeans. It is known for its strong smell, sticky texture, and unique flavor. Natto is often eaten for breakfast and is considered a healthy food due to its high protein and probiotic content. It is typically served with rice, mustard, and soy sauce. Example sentences: I eat natto every morning「毎朝納豆を食べます」(まいあさなっとうをたべます). Natto is good for your health「納豆は健康に良いです」(なっとうはけんこうにいいです).

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    7

    JLPT

    N1

    Grade

    3

    Frequency

    1155

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Pass through, Transparent

    Reading

    kunyomi

    su

    onyomiとう

    tou

    Parts

    Walk Excel, Excellent

    Example Word

    透き通る: transparent. The Japanese verb '透き通る (すきとおる)' means 'to be transparent' or 'to be clear'. It is used to describe something that allows light to pass through it, making it see-through. This verb can be used to describe physical objects like glass or water, as well as more abstract concepts like voices or emotions. For example: The glass is transparent「ガラスが透き通っている」(ガラスがすきとおっている). Her voice is clear and transparent「彼女の声は澄んでいて透き通っている」(かのじょのこえはすんでいてすきとおっている). It can also be used metaphorically to describe something that is pure or untainted, such as a transparent heart「透き通った心」(すきとおったこころ).

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    10

    JLPT

    N1

    Grade

    7

    Frequency

    1177

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Tower

    Reading

    onyomiとう

    tou

    Parts

    Soil

    Example Word

    塔: tower. The Japanese noun '塔 (とう)' refers to a 'tower', a tall structure that is often used for observation, communication, or as a landmark. This word is commonly used to describe both historical and modern towers, such as the Tokyo Tower or ancient pagodas. For example: The tower is tall「その塔は高い」(そのとうはたかい). We visited the old tower「私たちは古い塔を訪れた」(わたしたちはふるいとうをおとずれた). The word can also be used metaphorically to describe something that stands out prominently, like a 'tower of strength'.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    12

    JLPT

    N2

    Grade

    7

    Frequency

    1228

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Rice plant

    Reading

    kunyomiいな

    ina

    いね

    ine

    onyomiとう

    tou

    Parts

    Cereal Day, Sun

    Example Word

    稲: rice. The Japanese noun '稲 (いね)' refers specifically to the rice plant, particularly before it is harvested. This term is used in agricultural contexts and is distinct from '米 (こめ)', which refers to rice as a grain or food. '稲' is often associated with rice paddies and the cultivation process. For example: The rice plants are growing well「稲がよく育っている」(いねがよくそだっている). We planted rice in the field「田んぼに稲を植えた」(たんぼにいねをうえた).

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    14

    JLPT

    N1

    Grade

    7

    Frequency

    1357

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Peach

    Reading

    kunyomiもも

    momo

    onyomiとう

    tou

    Parts

    Tree, Wood Omen, Trillion

    Example Word

    桃: peach. The Japanese noun '桃 (もも)' refers to the fruit 'peach'. It is commonly used to describe the fruit itself, as well as things that are peach-colored or peach-shaped. In Japanese culture, peaches are often associated with longevity and good fortune, and they appear in various folktales and traditions. Example sentences: I ate a peach「桃を食べた」(ももをたべた). The peach is sweet「桃は甘い」(ももはあまい). This juice is made from peaches「このジュースは桃から作られている」(このジュースはももからつくられている).

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    10

    JLPT

    N1

    Grade

    7

    Frequency

    1437

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Pipe, Cylinder

    Reading

    kunyomiつつ

    tsutsu

    onyomiとう

    tou

    Parts

    Bamboo (竹)Same

    Example Word

    封筒: envelope. The Japanese noun '封筒 (ふうとう)' refers to an 'envelope', a flat paper container used to hold letters or documents. It is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts, such as mailing letters or storing important papers. Example sentences: Please put the letter in the envelope「手紙を封筒に入れてください」(てがみをふうとうにいれてください). I bought a pack of envelopes「封筒を一冊買いました」(ふうとうをいっさつかいました). The word is often paired with verbs like '入れる (いれる)' (to put in) or '送る (おくる)' (to send).

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    12

    JLPT

    N2

    Grade

    9

    Frequency

    1473

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Pottery

    Reading

    onyomiとう

    tou

    Parts

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    11

    JLPT

    N1

    Grade

    8

    Frequency

    1584

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Ridicule, Insult

    Reading

    kunyomiあざけ

    azake

    onyomiちょう

    chou

    とう

    tou

    Parts

    Mouth Morning

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    15

    Grade

    10

    Frequency

    1595

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Freeze, Frozen

    Reading

    kunyomiこお

    koo

    こご

    kogo

    onyomiとう

    tou

    Parts

    Ice (水)East

    Example Word

    凍る: freeze. The Japanese verb '凍る (こおる)' means 'to freeze'. It is used to describe the process of a liquid turning into a solid due to cold temperatures. This verb can be used for both natural phenomena and man-made situations. For example: the lake froze「湖が凍った」(みずうみがこおった). My hands are freezing「手が凍る」(てがこおる). It can also be used metaphorically to describe a situation or a person becoming emotionally cold or unresponsive. For example: his heart froze「彼の心が凍った」(かれのこころがこおった).

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    10

    JLPT

    N2

    Grade

    8

    Frequency

    1616

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Pupil

    Reading

    kunyomiひとみ

    hitomi

    onyomiどう

    dou

    とう

    tou

    Parts

    Eye Juvenile

    Example Word

    瞳: pupil. The Japanese noun '瞳 (ひとみ)' primarily refers to the 'pupil' of the eye, the black circular opening in the center of the iris. It can also poetically or metaphorically refer to the eyes themselves, often evoking a sense of beauty or depth. For example: Her pupils are beautiful「彼女の瞳は美しい」(かのじょのひとみはうつくしい). The child's eyes sparkled「子供の瞳が輝いていた」(こどものひとみがかがやいていた). This word is often used in literary or emotional contexts to emphasize the expressiveness or allure of someone's eyes.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    17

    JLPT

    N1

    Grade

    10

    Frequency

    1674

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Block, Ridgepole

    Reading

    kunyomiむね

    mune

    むな

    muna

    onyomiとう

    tou

    Parts

    Tree, Wood East

    Example Word

    棟: building. The Japanese suffix '棟 (とう)' is used to denote a building or a structure, often in the context of counting or identifying specific buildings within a complex. It is commonly used in addresses, building names, or when referring to multiple buildings. For example: building number 3「3棟」(さんとう). The main building「本棟」(ほんとう). This suffix is particularly useful in contexts like schools, hospitals, or office complexes where there are multiple buildings. Note that '棟' can also refer to a specific wing or section of a larger building.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    12

    JLPT

    N1

    Grade

    9

    Frequency

    1757

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Sugar

    Reading

    onyomiとう

    tou

    Parts

    Rice Tang dynasty

    Example Word

    砂糖: sugar. The Japanese noun '砂糖 (さとう)' means 'sugar'. It refers to the sweet crystalline substance used to flavor food and drinks. This word is commonly used in everyday contexts, such as cooking or discussing food. For example: I put sugar in my coffee「コーヒーに砂糖を入れました」(コーヒーにさとうをいれました). This cake has a lot of sugar「このケーキは砂糖が多い」(このケーキはさとうがおおい). The word '砂糖' is neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal settings.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    16

    JLPT

    N1

    Grade

    6

    Frequency

    1785

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Rise, Inflation

    Reading

    kunyomiのぼ

    nobo

    あが

    aga

    onyomiとう

    tou

    Parts

    Moon, Month

    Example Word

    沸騰: boiling. The Japanese verbal noun '沸騰 (ふっとう)' means 'boiling'. It refers to the process of a liquid reaching its boiling point and bubbling vigorously due to heat. This term is commonly used in both scientific and everyday contexts. For example: the water is boiling「お湯が沸騰している」(おゆがふっとうしている). The excitement reached a boiling point「興奮が沸騰点に達した」(こうふんがふっとうてんにたっした). In a figurative sense, it can also describe a situation or emotions reaching a peak or climax, such as 'the crowd's excitement was boiling over'「群衆の興奮が沸騰していた」(ぐんしゅうのこうふんがふっとうしていた).

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    20

    JLPT

    N1

    Grade

    9

    Frequency

    1839

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Reward, Repay

    Reading

    kunyomiむく

    muku

    onyomiしゅ

    shu

    とう

    tou

    しゅう

    shuu

    Parts

    Bird of the zodiac State

    Example Word

    報酬: reward or compensation. The Japanese noun '報酬 (ほうしゅう)' refers to a reward or compensation given in return for services, work, or effort. It is commonly used in professional or contractual contexts to describe payment, bonuses, or other forms of remuneration. For example: The company paid a generous reward for his hard work「会社は彼の努力に対して寛大な報酬を支払った」(かいしゃはかれのどりょくにたいしてかんだいなほうしゅうをしはらった). The compensation for the project was fair「そのプロジェクトの報酬は公平だった」(そのプロジェクトのほうしゅうはこうへいだった). Note that '報酬' often implies a formal or agreed-upon exchange, distinguishing it from casual gifts or tips.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    13

    JLPT

    N1

    Grade

    9

    Frequency

    1878

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Yearn, Long for

    Reading

    kunyomiあこが

    akoga

    onyomiしょう

    shou

    どう

    dou

    とう

    tou

    Parts

    Juvenile

    Example Word

    憧れ: longing. The Japanese noun '憧れ (あこがれ)' refers to a feeling of longing or yearning, often for something or someone that is admired or idealized. It conveys a sense of aspiration or desire for something unattainable or distant. This word is commonly used to describe admiration for a person, a lifestyle, or a dream. For example: I have a longing for Paris「私はパリに憧れている」(わたしはパリにあこがれている). She has always had a longing to become a singer「彼女は歌手になることに憧れていた」(かのじょはかしゅになることにあこがれていた). The nuance of '憧れ' often carries a positive and romanticized tone, emphasizing the beauty or allure of the object of desire.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    15

    JLPT

    N1

    Grade

    10

    Frequency

    1926

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Smallpox, Pox

    Reading

    onyomiとう

    tou

    Parts

    Sick Beans

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    12

    JLPT

    N1

    Grade

    8

    Frequency

    2036

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Mourn, Lament

    Reading

    kunyomiいた

    ita

    onyomiとう

    tou

    Parts

    Eminent

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    11

    JLPT

    N1

    Grade

    9

    Frequency

    2089

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Copy, Mimeograph

    Reading

    onyomiとう

    tou

    Parts

    Moon, Month

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    17

    JLPT

    N1

    Grade

    9

    Frequency

    2124

    Handwriting

    kanji

    Meaning

    Board

    Reading

    onyomiとう

    tou

    Parts

    Hand (手)

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    12

    JLPT

    N1

    Grade

    9

    Frequency

    2132

    Handwriting

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Onyomi reading Groups

Group 5 of 305