Jōyō KanjiOrganized by Stroke Count
17 Strokes
kanji
優Meaning
Superior, Gentle
Reading
yasa
すぐsugu
onyomiゆうyuu
Parts
亻Person (人)憂Anxious, Grief
Example Word
優秀: excellent. The Japanese adjectival noun '優秀 (ゆうしゅう)' means 'excellent' and is used to describe someone or something that is outstanding, superior, or of high quality. It is often used to praise people, such as students, employees, or professionals, for their exceptional abilities or achievements. For example: He is an excellent student「彼は優秀な学生です」(かれはゆうしゅうながくせいです). This is an excellent product「これは優秀な製品です」(これはゆうしゅうなせいひんです). The term carries a formal tone and is commonly used in academic, professional, or evaluative contexts.
Radical
人
Stroke Count
17JLPT
N3Grade
6Frequency
640
Handwriting
kanji
聴Meaning
Listen
Reading
ki
onyomiちょうchou
Parts
耳Ear 十Ten 罒Net 心Heart
Example Word
視聴: viewing. The Japanese noun '視聴 (しちょう)' refers to the act of watching or viewing something, often used in the context of media such as TV programs, videos, or broadcasts. It can also imply listening, especially in contexts where both visual and auditory elements are involved. For example: The viewing rate of the program was high「その番組の視聴率は高かった」(そのばんぐみのしちょうりつはたかかった). I watched the live broadcast「生放送を視聴した」(なまほうそうをしちょうした). This term is commonly used in discussions about media consumption and audience metrics.
Radical
耳
Stroke Count
17JLPT
N1Grade
8Frequency
802
Handwriting
kanji
厳Meaning
Severe, Strict
Reading
ogoso
きびkibi
onyomiげんgen
ごんgon
Parts
⺍Small 敢Daring 厂Cliff
Example Word
厳しい: severe or strict. The Japanese adjective '厳しい (きびしい)' can mean 'strict' or 'severe', depending on the context. When used to describe a person, it often refers to someone who is strict or demanding, such as a teacher or parent. For example: my teacher is strict「私の先生は厳しい」(わたしのせんせいはきびしい). When used to describe a situation or condition, it can mean 'severe' or 'harsh', such as in the case of weather or rules. For example: the winter is severe「冬は厳しい」(ふゆはきびしい). This adjective can also be used to describe something that is difficult or challenging, such as a test or competition. For example: the exam was tough「試験は厳しかった」(しけんはきびしかった).
Radical
厂
Stroke Count
17JLPT
N1Grade
6Frequency
920
Handwriting
kanji
闇Meaning
Darkness
Reading
yami
onyomiおんon
あんan
Parts
門Gate 音Sound
Example Word
闇: darkness. The Japanese noun '闇 (やみ)' means 'darkness'. It refers to the absence of light, often used to describe physical darkness, such as in a room or at night. It can also metaphorically represent emotional or moral darkness, such as despair, ignorance, or evil. For example: The room was filled with darkness「部屋は闇に包まれていた」(へやはやみにつつまれていた). He fell into the darkness of despair「彼は絶望の闇に落ちた」(かれはぜつぼうのやみにおちた). The word can also be used in idiomatic expressions, such as '闇取引 (やみとりひき)' (black market dealings).
Radical
門
Stroke Count
17JLPT
UnknownGrade
10Frequency
927
Handwriting
kanji
講Meaning
Lecture
Reading
kou
Parts
訁Say (言)冓
Example Word
講座: course. The Japanese noun '講座 (こうざ)' primarily means 'course', referring to a series of lessons or lectures on a particular subject. It is commonly used in educational contexts, such as university courses or specialized training programs. For example: I am taking a Japanese history course「私は日本史の講座を取っています」(わたしはにほんしのこうざをとっています). This course is very popular「この講座はとても人気です」(このこうざはとてもにんきです). Additionally, '講座' can sometimes refer to a lecture or seminar, but the primary meaning remains 'course'.
Radical
言
Stroke Count
17JLPT
N2Grade
5Frequency
1050
Handwriting
kanji
鮮Meaning
Fresh, Vivid
Reading
aza
onyomiせんsen
Parts
魚Fish 羊Sheep
Example Word
新鮮: fresh. The Japanese adjective '新鮮 (しんせん)' means 'fresh'. It is commonly used to describe food, produce, or ingredients that are recently harvested, prepared, or in good condition. It can also be used metaphorically to describe new or refreshing ideas, experiences, or perspectives. For example: This fish is fresh「この魚は新鮮だ」(このさかなはしんせんだ). I want to try fresh vegetables「新鮮な野菜を食べたい」(しんせんなやさいをたべたい). The presentation gave me a fresh perspective「そのプレゼンテーションは新鮮な視点を与えてくれた」(そ のプレゼンテーションはしんせんしてんをあたえてくれた).
Radical
魚
Stroke Count
17JLPT
N1Grade
7Frequency
1128
Handwriting
kanji
覧Meaning
Look, Perusal
Reading
ran
Parts
臣Servant, Retainer
Example Word
一覧: list. The Japanese noun '一覧 (いちらん)' means 'list'. It refers to a comprehensive or organized display of items, often presented in a table or chart format. This word is commonly used in contexts such as schedules, directories, or summaries. For example: Please check the list「一覧を確認してください」(いちらんをかくにんしてください). The list of participants is attached「参加者一覧が添付されています」(さんかしゃいちらんがてんぷされています). Note that '一覧' often implies a visual or structured presentation of information, making it distinct from more general terms like 'リスト (list)'.
Radical
見
Stroke Count
17JLPT
N1Grade
6Frequency
1129
Handwriting
kanji
謝Meaning
Apologize
Reading
ayama
onyomiしゃsha
Parts
訁Say (言)射Shoot
Example Word
月謝: tuition. The Japanese noun '月謝 (げっしゃ)' refers to a monthly fee or payment, most commonly used in the context of tuition for lessons, classes, or training. It is often associated with extracurricular activities like music lessons, sports clubs, or language schools. For example: I pay monthly tuition for piano lessons「ピアノの月謝を払っています」(ぴあののげっしゃをはらっています). The monthly fee for the swimming club is expensive「スイミングクラブの月謝は高いです」(すいみんぐくらぶのげっしゃはたかいです). This term is specific to regular, recurring payments and is not used for one-time fees or general expenses.
Radical
言
Stroke Count
17JLPT
N1Grade
5Frequency
1218
Handwriting
kanji
縮Meaning
Shrink
Reading
chiji
onyomiしゅくshuku
Parts
糸Thread 宿Lodging
Example Word
縮小: reduction. The Japanese verbal noun '縮小 (しゅくしょう)' means 'reduction'. It refers to the act of making something smaller in size, scale, or scope. This term is often used in formal or technical contexts, such as business, science, or policy discussions. For example: The company decided on a reduction in staff「会社は人員の縮小を決定した」(かいしゃはじんいんのしゅくしょうをけっていした). The government is planning a reduction in budget「政府は予算の縮小を計画している」(せいふはよさんのしゅくしょうをけいかくしている). It can also be used in everyday contexts, such as reducing the size of an image「画像の縮小を行った」(がぞうのしゅくしょうをおこなった).
Radical
糸
Stroke Count
17JLPT
N1Grade
6Frequency
1277
Handwriting
kanji
戴Meaning
Receive
Reading
itada
onyomiたいtai
Example Word
頂戴: receive. The Japanese verbal noun '頂戴 (ちょうだい)' is a polite and humble way to say 'receive' or 'accept'. It is often used when asking for something politely or when receiving something from someone of higher status. It can also be used as a humble way to say 'eat' or 'drink'. For example: Please give me that book「その本を頂戴」(そのほんをちょうだい). I received a gift from my teacher「先生からプレゼントを頂戴しました」(せんせいからプレゼントをちょうだいしました). It's important to note that this word is often used in formal or polite situations, and is not typically used in casual conversation.
Radical
戈
Stroke Count
17JLPT
UnknownGrade
10Frequency
1383
Handwriting
kanji
醜Meaning
Ugly
Reading
miniku
しこshiko
onyomiしゅうshuu
Parts
酉Bird of the zodiac 鬼Demon, Ogre
Example Word
醜い: ugly. The Japanese adjective '醜い (みにくい)' means 'ugly'. It is used to describe something or someone that is unattractive in appearance or behavior. This word can also be used metaphorically to describe actions or situations that are morally reprehensible or disgraceful. For example: That painting is ugly「その絵は醜い」(そのえはみにくい). His actions were ugly「彼の行動は醜かった」(かれのこうどうはみにくかった). It's important to note that this adjective can carry a strong negative connotation, so it should be used with caution.
Radical
酉
Stroke Count
17JLPT
N1Grade
9Frequency
1406
Handwriting
kanji
環Meaning
Ring, Surround
Reading
kan
Parts
王King 睘
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
玉
Stroke Count
17JLPT
N1Grade
7Frequency
1416
Handwriting
kanji
鍵Meaning
Key
Reading
kagi
onyomiけんken
Parts
釒Gold (金)建Build
Example Word
鍵: key. The Japanese noun '鍵 (かぎ)' means 'key'. It refers to a physical object used to lock or unlock something, such as a door, a safe, or a car. This word is commonly used in everyday situations. For example: I lost my key「鍵をなくしました」(かぎをなくしました). Do you have the key to this door?「このドアの鍵を持っていますか?」(このドアのかぎをもっていますか?). Additionally, '鍵' can also metaphorically refer to something essential or crucial, as in 'the key to success' (成功の鍵, せいこうのかぎ).
Radical
金
Stroke Count
17JLPT
UnknownGrade
10Frequency
1454
Handwriting
kanji
療Meaning
Cure, Heal
Reading
ryou
Parts
疒Sick 尞
Example Word
診療: medical care. The Japanese noun '診療 (しんりょう)' refers to medical care or treatment provided by a doctor or medical professional. It encompasses the process of diagnosing and treating patients. This term is often used in contexts related to hospitals, clinics, or healthcare services. For example: The hospital provides excellent medical care「その病院は優れた診療を提供します」(そのびょういんはすぐれたしんりょうをていきょうします). The doctor is in charge of medical care「その医師は診療を担当しています」(そのいしはしんりょうをたんとうしています). Note that '診療' is commonly used in formal or professional settings and is distinct from general health-related terms like '治療 (ちりょう)' (treatment) or '診察 (しんさつ)' (medical examination).
Radical
疒
Stroke Count
17JLPT
N2Grade
7Frequency
1517
Handwriting
kanji
霜Meaning
Frost
Reading
shimo
onyomiそうsou
Parts
雨Rain 相Mutual
Example Word
霜: frost. The Japanese noun '霜 (しも)' refers to 'frost', which is the thin layer of ice that forms on surfaces when the temperature drops below freezing. This word is often used in weather-related contexts or to describe the natural phenomenon of frost forming on plants, windows, or the ground. For example: The frost is beautiful this morning「今朝の霜は美しい」(けさのしもはうつくしい). The garden was covered in frost「庭が霜で覆われていた」(にわがしもでおおわれていた). Frost can also symbolize coldness or the arrival of winter in poetic or literary contexts.
Radical
雨
Stroke Count
17JLPT
N1Grade
9Frequency
1560
Handwriting
kanji
齢Meaning
Age
Reading
yowai
onyomiれいrei
Parts
歯Tooth 令Orders
Example Word
高齢: old age. The Japanese noun '高齢 (こうれい)' refers to 'old age' or 'advanced age'. It is commonly used to describe elderly people or the state of being elderly. This term is often used in formal contexts, such as in discussions about healthcare, social welfare, or demographics. For example: The population is aging「人口は高齢化している」(じんこうはこうれいかしている). Elderly care is important「高齢者のケアは重要です」(こうれいしゃのけあはじゅうようです). Note that '高齢' is typically used in a respectful or neutral tone when referring to older individuals.
Radical
齒
Stroke Count
17JLPT
N2Grade
7Frequency
1574
Handwriting
kanji
頻Meaning
Frequently, Frequent
Reading
shiki
onyomiひんhin
Parts
步 頁Page
Example Word
頻り: frequently or eagerly. The Japanese adverb '頻り (しきり)' has two distinct meanings. The first meaning is 'frequently', which is used to describe something that happens often or repeatedly. For example: It rained frequently yesterday「昨日は頻りと雨が降った」(きのうはしきりとあめがふった). The second meaning is 'eagerly', which is used to describe doing something with enthusiasm or intensity. For example: She eagerly asked questions「彼女は頻りに質問をした」(かのじょはしきりにしつもんをした). The nuance of this word often conveys a sense of persistence or intensity in the action being described.
Radical
頁
Stroke Count
17JLPT
N1Grade
9Frequency
1575
Handwriting
kanji
犠Meaning
Sacrifice
Reading
gi
Parts
牛Cow 義Righteousness
Example Word
犠牲: sacrifice. The Japanese noun '犠牲 (ぎせい)' means 'sacrifice'. It refers to the act of giving up something valuable or important for the sake of others or a greater cause. This word is often used in contexts involving personal loss, such as in war, accidents, or even in daily life when someone makes a significant compromise. For example: He made a great sacrifice for his family「彼は家族のために大きな犠牲を払った」(かれはかぞくのためにおおきなぎせいをはらった). The victims of the disaster were a tragic sacrifice「その災害の犠牲者は悲劇的な犠牲だった」(そのさいがいのぎせいしゃはひげきてきなぎせいだった).
Radical
牛
Stroke Count
17JLPT
N1Grade
8Frequency
1626
Handwriting
kanji
鍋Meaning
Pot
Reading
nabe
onyomiかka
Parts
金Gold 咼
Example Word
鍋: pot. The Japanese noun '鍋 (なべ)' refers to a 'pot', typically used for cooking. It can describe various types of pots, such as those used for boiling, stewing, or frying. In Japanese cuisine, '鍋' is also associated with hot pot dishes, where ingredients are cooked together in a communal pot. Example sentences: I bought a new pot「新しい鍋を買いました」(あたらしいなべをかいました). Let's make hot pot tonight「今夜は鍋を作りましょう」(こんやはなべをつくりましょう). The pot is on the stove「鍋がコンロの上にあります」(なべがコンロのうえにあります).
Radical
金
Stroke Count
17JLPT
UnknownGrade
10Frequency
1632
Handwriting
kanji
臆Meaning
Cowardice
Reading
mune
おくするokusuru
onyomiおくoku
よくyoku
Parts
月Moon, Month 意Idea ⺼
Example Word
臆病: cowardly. The Japanese adjectival noun '臆病 (おくびょう)' means 'cowardly'. It is used to describe someone who lacks courage or is easily frightened. This term often carries a negative connotation, implying timidity or fearfulness in situations where bravery is expected. For example: he is too cowardly to face the challenge「彼は臆病でその挑戦に立ち向かえない」(かれはおくびょうでそのちょうせんにたちむかえない). Don't be so cowardly!「そんなに臆病にならないで!」(そんなにおくびょうにならないで!). The word can also describe a cautious or overly timid approach to something, such as 'a cowardly attitude' (臆病な態度, おくびょうなたいど).
Radical
肉
Stroke Count
17JLPT
UnknownGrade
10Frequency
1655
Handwriting
kanji
瞳Meaning
Pupil
Reading
hitomi
onyomiどうdou
とうtou
Parts
目Eye 童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
目
Stroke Count
17JLPT
N1Grade
10Frequency
1674
Handwriting
kanji
謙Meaning
Humble, Modesty
Reading
ken
Parts
訁Say (言)兼Combine, Concurrently
Example Word
謙遜: modesty. The Japanese verbal noun '謙遜 (けんそん)' refers to the act of being modest or humble, often in the context of downplaying one's own abilities, achievements, or status. It is a valued trait in Japanese culture and is frequently used in social interactions to show politeness and respect. For example: He responded with modesty「彼は謙遜して答えた」(かれはけんそんしてこたえた). She always speaks with modesty「彼女はいつも謙遜して話す」(かのじょはいつもけんそんしてはなす). This term is often used in formal or professional settings to avoid appearing boastful.
Radical
言
Stroke Count
17JLPT
N1Grade
9Frequency
1681
Handwriting
kanji
績Meaning
Achievement
Reading
seki
Parts
糸Thread 責Blame, Liability
Example Word
業績: achievement or performance. The Japanese noun '業績 (ぎょうせき)' refers to achievements or performance, particularly in the context of business, work, or academic endeavors. It is often used to describe measurable results, such as financial performance, sales figures, or academic accomplishments. For example: The company's performance improved this year「今年の業績は向上した」(ことしのぎょうせきはこうじょうした). His academic achievements are impressive「彼の学業成績は素晴らしい」(かれのがくぎょうせいせきはすばらしい). Note that '業績' is commonly used in formal or professional settings and emphasizes quantifiable results.
Radical
糸
Stroke Count
17JLPT
N2Grade
5Frequency
1692
Handwriting
kanji
瞭Meaning
Clear
Reading
ryou
Parts
目Eye 尞
Example Word
明瞭: clear. The Japanese adjectival noun '明瞭 (めいりょう)' means 'clear' and is used to describe something that is easy to understand, distinct, or unambiguous. It is often used in contexts where clarity of speech, thought, or expression is emphasized. For example: His explanation was clear「彼の説明は明瞭だった」(かれのせつめいはめいりょうだった). The image on the screen is clear「画面の映像は明瞭だ」(がめんのえいぞうはめいりょうだ). This word is commonly used in formal or technical contexts to describe precision and clarity.
Radical
目
Stroke Count
17JLPT
N1Grade
10Frequency
1722
Handwriting
kanji
擦Meaning
Rub, Grate
Reading
su
こすkosu
onyomiさつsatsu
Parts
扌Hand (手)察Guess
Example Word
擦る: rub. The Japanese verb '擦る (する)' means 'to rub'. This verb is used when describing the action of moving one object back and forth against another, often to clean, polish, or cause friction. It can also imply applying pressure while moving. For example: I rubbed my eyes「目を擦った」(めをすった). She rubbed the stain with a cloth「彼女はその染みを布で擦った」(かのじょはそのしみをぬのですった). Additionally, '擦る' can sometimes imply a sense of scraping or grinding, depending on the context. It is important to note that this verb is transitive and typically requires a direct object.
Radical
手
Stroke Count
17JLPT
N1Grade
8Frequency
1729
Handwriting
kanji
鍛Meaning
Forge, Train
Reading
kita
onyomiたんtan
Parts
釒Gold (金)段Step, Stairs
Example Word
鍛える: train. The Japanese verb '鍛える (きたえる)' primarily means 'to train' or 'to forge'. It is often used in the context of physical training, such as building strength or endurance, but can also refer to mental or skill-based training. For example: He trains his body every day「彼は毎日体を鍛える」(かれはまいにちからだをきたえる). She is training her mind through meditation「彼女は瞑想で心を鍛えている」(かのじょはめいそうでこころをきたえている). Additionally, '鍛える' can be used metaphorically to describe refining or honing a skill, such as '鍛える技術 (きたえるぎじゅつ)' (honing a skill).
Radical
金
Stroke Count
17JLPT
N1Grade
8Frequency
1751
Handwriting
kanji
償Meaning
Recompense, Reparation
Reading
tsuguna
onyomiしょうshou
Parts
亻Person (人)賞Prize
Example Word
賠償: compensation. The Japanese noun '賠償 (ばいしょう)' refers to 'compensation', particularly in the context of legal or financial reparation for damages, losses, or injuries. It is commonly used in legal settings, such as lawsuits or insurance claims, where one party is required to compensate another for harm caused. For example: The company paid compensation for the damages「会社は損害の賠償を支払った」(かいしゃはそんがいのばいしょうをしはらった). He demanded compensation for the accident「彼は事故の賠償を要求した」(かれはじこのばいしょうをようきゅうした). This term is often associated with formal or serious situations where restitution is necessary.
Radical
人
Stroke Count
17JLPT
N1Grade
9Frequency
1861
Handwriting
kanji
濯Meaning
Wash, Rinse
Reading
susu
そそぐsosogu
ゆすyusu
onyomiたくtaku
Parts
氵Water (水)翟Surname
Example Word
洗濯機: washing machine. The Japanese noun '洗濯機 (せんたくき)' means 'washing machine'. It refers to the household appliance used for washing clothes. This word is commonly used in everyday conversations when discussing household chores or appliances. For example: I bought a new washing machine「新しい洗濯機を買いました」(あたらしいせんたくきをかいました). The washing machine is broken「洗濯機が壊れています」(せんたくきがこわれています). It's important to note that this noun is often used in contexts related to home maintenance, laundry, or shopping for appliances.
Radical
水
Stroke Count
17JLPT
N2Grade
9Frequency
1890
Handwriting
kanji
燥Meaning
Dry, Parch, Dry up
Reading
hasha
onyomiそうsou
Parts
火Fire 喿
Example Word
乾燥: drying or dryness. The Japanese verbal noun '乾燥 (かんそう)' primarily refers to the state of being dry or the process of drying. It is commonly used in contexts related to weather, food preservation, and materials. For example: The dryness of the air is intense「空気の乾燥が激しい」(くうきのかんそうがはげしい). Drying clothes in the sun「服を乾燥させる」(ふくをかんそうさせる). This word can also be used in scientific or technical contexts, such as in describing the drying process of paint or other substances.
Radical
火
Stroke Count
17JLPT
N2Grade
7Frequency
1939
Handwriting
kanji
繊Meaning
Fine, Fiber
Reading
sen
Parts
糸Thread
Example Word
繊維: fiber. The Japanese noun '繊維 (せんい)' refers to 'fiber', which can denote natural or synthetic threads used in textiles, or biological fibers in living organisms. It is commonly used in contexts related to materials, textiles, and biology. For example: cotton fiber「綿の繊維」(わたのせんい). This fabric is made from synthetic fibers「この布は合成繊維でできています」(このぬのはごうせいせんいでできています). The word can also be used metaphorically to describe something delicate or fine, like the fibers of a relationship.
Radical
糸
Stroke Count
17JLPT
N1Grade
9Frequency
1948
Handwriting
kanji
曖Meaning
Dark, Not clear
Reading
kura
onyomiあいai
Parts
日Day, Sun 愛Love
Example Word
曖昧: vague. The Japanese adjective '曖昧 (あいまい)' means 'vague' or 'ambiguous'. It is used to describe something that is unclear, not well-defined, or open to interpretation. This word can be applied to statements, ideas, situations, or even feelings. For example: His explanation was vague「彼の説明は曖昧だった」(かれのせつめいはあいまいだった). The meaning of this sentence is ambiguous「この文の意味は曖昧だ」(このぶんのいみはあいまいだ). '曖昧' often carries a slightly negative connotation, implying a lack of clarity or precision. It is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts.
Radical
日
Stroke Count
17JLPT
UnknownGrade
10Frequency
1972
Handwriting
kanji
購Meaning
Purchase, Subscription
Reading
kou
Parts
貝Shellfish 冓
Example Word
購入: purchase. The Japanese verbal noun '購入 (こうにゅう)' means 'purchase'. It refers to the act of buying or acquiring something, typically in a formal or commercial context. This term is often used in business settings, online shopping, or when discussing transactions. For example: I purchased a new car「新しい車を購入しました」(あたらしいくるまをこうにゅうしました). The company purchased new equipment「会社は新しい設備を購入しました」(かいしゃはあたらしいせつびをこうにゅうしました). It is important to note that '購入' is more formal than the verb '買う (かう)', which also means 'to buy' but is used in more casual contexts.
Radical
貝
Stroke Count
17JLPT
N1Grade
9Frequency
1976
Handwriting