kanji

Meaning

Day, Sun

Reading

Parts

口Mouth 一One

Example Word

火曜日: Tuesday. The Japanese noun '火曜日 (かようび)' means 'Tuesday'. It is one of the days of the week in the Japanese calendar. The word is derived from the kanji '火' meaning 'fire', which is associated with the planet Mars in traditional East Asian culture. Example sentences: I have a meeting on Tuesday「火曜日に会議があります」(かようびにかいぎがあります). Let's meet next Tuesday「来週の火曜日に会いましょう」(らいしゅうのかようびにあいましょう).

Radical

日

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

8

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Minute, Part

Reading

Parts

八Eight 刀Sword

Example Word

部分: part. The Japanese noun '部分 (ぶぶん)' means 'part'. It refers to a section or portion of a whole, and can be used in various contexts, such as physical objects, abstract concepts, or even time. For example: this is the most important part「これが最も重要な部分です」(これがもっともじゅうようなぶぶんです). I only understood part of the story「話の部分しか理解できなかった」(はなしのぶぶんしかりかいできなかった). The word is often used in combination with other nouns to specify a particular part, such as '車の部分 (くるまのぶぶん) (part of the car)' or '計画の部分 (けいかくのぶぶん) (part of the plan)'.

Radical

刀

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

10

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Center

Reading

Parts

口Mouth 丨Stick

Example Word

真っ最中: midst. The Japanese noun '真っ最中 (まっさいちゅう)' refers to being in the very middle or peak of an event, activity, or situation. It emphasizes the intensity or focus of the moment. For example: We are in the midst of a meeting「会議の真っ最中です」(かいぎのまっさいちゅうです). The festival is in full swing「祭りの真っ最中だ」(まつりのまっさいちゅうだ). This word is often used to describe ongoing situations where something is actively happening.

Radical

丨

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

11

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Direction

Reading

Parts

丶Dot 万Ten thousand

Example Word

平方: square. The Japanese noun '平方 (へいほう)' refers to 'square' in the mathematical sense, specifically indicating the square of a number or a unit of area. It is commonly used in contexts involving mathematics, geometry, and measurements. For example: the square of 5 is 25「5の平方は25です」(ごのへいほうはにじゅうごです). This room is 20 square meters「この部屋は20平方メートルです」(このへやはにじゅうへいほうメートルです). The term is often paired with units of measurement, such as '平方メートル (へいほうメートル)' (square meters) or '平方キロメートル (へいほうキロメートル)' (square kilometers).

Radical

方

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

22

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Hand

Reading

Parts

丿Katakana no 二Two 亅Barb

Example Word

左手: left hand. The Japanese noun '左手 (ひだりて)' means 'left hand'. It refers specifically to the hand on the left side of the body. This word is commonly used in everyday conversation and can be used in various contexts, such as describing actions, giving directions, or discussing physical attributes. For example: I write with my left hand「私は左手で書きます」(わたしはひだりてでかきます). He held the bag in his left hand「彼は左手でバッグを持っていた」(かれはひだりてでバッグをもっていた). The word is straightforward and does not carry additional nuanced meanings beyond its literal definition.

Radical

手

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

23

Radical Form

扌

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Heart

Reading

Parts

⺃Second (乙)丶Dot 丿Katakana no

Example Word

真心: sincerity. The Japanese noun '真心 (まごころ)' refers to 'sincerity' or 'genuine heart'. It conveys a deep sense of honesty, purity, and heartfelt emotion. This word is often used to describe actions or feelings that come from a place of true intention and goodwill, without any ulterior motives. For example: She accepted his sincerity「彼女は彼の真心を受け入れた」(かのじょはかれのまごころをうけいれた). His sincerity moved everyone「彼の真心はみんなを感動させた」(かれのまごころはみんなをかんどうさせた). The term is commonly used in contexts emphasizing genuine care, such as in relationships, art, or acts of kindness.

Radical

心

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

33

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Now

Reading

Parts

人Person 一One フKatakana fu

Example Word

今まで: until now. The Japanese adverb '今まで (いままで)' means 'until now' or 'so far'. It is used to refer to the period of time leading up to the present moment. This adverb is often used to describe situations, actions, or states that have persisted or occurred up to the current time. For example: I had never been there until now「今までそこに行ったことがなかった」(いままでそこにいったことがなかった). So far, everything has been fine「今まで、すべて順調だった」(いままで、すべてじゅんちょうだった).It can also be used to express a change in a state or situation, as in the example: Until now, I had never thought about it「今まで、それを考えたことがなかった」(いままで、それをかんがえたことがなかった).

Radical

人

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

35

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Five

Reading

Parts

丅Down (下)ユKatakana yu

Example Word

五つ: five. The Japanese noun '五つ (いつつ)' means 'five'. It is used to indicate the number five, often in contexts where counting objects or items. This word is part of the traditional Japanese counting system, which uses specific counters for different types of objects. For example: there are five apples「りんごが五つある」(りんごがいつつある). I bought five books「本を五つ買った」(ほんをいつつかった). Note that '五つ' is typically used for general counting, while other counters may be used for specific items, such as '五冊 (ごさつ)' for books.

Radical

二

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

55

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Not

Reading

Example Word

不規則: irregular. The Japanese adjectival noun '不規則 (ふきそく)' means 'irregular'. It is used to describe something that does not follow a set pattern, rule, or schedule. This term can be applied to various contexts, such as irregular schedules, irregular shapes, or irregular behavior. For example: His work hours are irregular「彼の仕事時間は不規則だ」(かれのしごとじかんはふきそくだ). The heartbeat was irregular「心拍が不規則だった」(しんぱくがふきそくだった). Note that '不規則' is often used in formal or technical contexts to describe deviations from the norm.

Radical

一

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

61

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Few

Reading

Parts

小Small 丿Katakana no

Example Word

少々: slightly. The Japanese adverb '少々 (しょうしょう)' means 'slightly' or 'a little'. It is often used to indicate a small degree or amount of something. This word is commonly used in polite or formal contexts, such as in restaurants or shops, to make requests or describe quantities. For example: Please wait a moment「少々お待ちください」(しょうしょうおまちください). Add a little salt「少々塩を加えてください」(しょうしょうしおをくわえてください). It can also be used to downplay a situation or request, making it sound less demanding or significant.

Radical

小

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

70

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Sentence

Reading

Parts

亠Lid 乂Govern

Example Word

人文科学: humanities. The Japanese noun '人文科学 (じんぶんかがく)' refers to the academic discipline of the humanities, which includes the study of human culture, history, literature, philosophy, and art. It is often contrasted with the natural sciences (自然科学, しぜんかがく). For example: I study humanities at university「私は大学で人文科学を勉強しています」(わたしはだいがくでじんぶんかがくをべんきょうしています). The humanities are important for understanding human culture「人文科学は人間の文化を理解するために重要です」(じんぶんかがくはにんげんのぶんかをりかいするためにじゅうようです). This term is commonly used in academic and educational contexts.

Radical

文

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

74

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Moon, Month

Reading

Parts

三Three 丿Katakana no 亅Barb

Example Word

三日月: crescent. The Japanese noun '三日月 (みかづき)' refers to a 'crescent moon'. It is commonly used to describe the shape of the moon when it is in its early phase, appearing as a thin, curved sliver. This word is often used in poetic or descriptive contexts to evoke imagery of the night sky. For example: The crescent moon is beautiful tonight「今夜の三日月は美しい」(こんやのみかづきはうつくしい). She drew a crescent moon on the paper「彼女は紙に三日月を描いた」(かのじょはかみにみかづきをかいた). The word can also be used metaphorically to describe something shaped like a crescent, such as a crescent-shaped pastry or object.

Radical

月

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

76

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Inside

Reading

Parts

冂Enclosure 人Person

Example Word

国内: domestic. The Japanese noun '国内 (こくない)' means 'domestic' and refers to something within a country, as opposed to international. It is commonly used in contexts such as domestic travel, domestic markets, or domestic affairs. For example: domestic travel is popular「国内旅行は人気です」(こくないりょこうはにんきです). The domestic market is growing「国内市場は成長しています」(こくないしじょうはせいちょうしています). This word is often used in contrast with '国際 (こくさい)', which means 'international'.

Radical

冂

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

107

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Water

Reading

Parts

亅Barb くHiragana ku フKatakana fu

Example Word

水田: paddy. The Japanese noun '水田 (すいでん)' refers to a 'paddy field', which is a flooded parcel of arable land used for growing rice. This term is specifically used in the context of agriculture and farming. Example sentences: The paddy fields are beautiful in the summer「夏の水田は美しい」(なつのすいでんはうつくしい). Farmers work hard in the paddy fields「農家は水田で一生懸命働く」(のうかはすいでんでいっしょうけんめいはたらく).

Radical

水

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

109

Radical Forms

氵, 氺, 冫

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Tree, Wood

Reading

Parts

十Ten 人Person

Example Word

木綿: cotton. The Japanese noun '木綿 (もめん)' refers to 'cotton', specifically the material or fabric made from cotton. It is commonly used in contexts related to clothing, textiles, and everyday items. For example: This shirt is made of cotton「このシャツは木綿です」(このシャツはもめんです). Cotton is soft and comfortable「木綿は柔らかくて快適です」(もめんはやわらかくてかいてきです). The word can also refer to cotton plants or cotton fibers, but its primary usage is in describing cotton fabric.

Radical

木

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

118

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Cut

Reading

Parts

刀Sword 七Seven

Example Word

切り替える: switch. The Japanese verb '切り替える (きりかえる)' means 'to switch' or 'to change over'. It is commonly used when referring to changing from one state, mode, or focus to another. This can apply to physical switches, mental states, or even tasks. For example: I switched the TV channel「テレビのチャンネルを切り替えた」(てれびのちゃんねるをきりかえた). She quickly switched her focus to the next task「彼女はすぐに次のタスクに切り替えた」(かのじょはすぐにつぎのタスクにきりかえた). The verb often implies a deliberate or necessary change, such as adapting to a new situation or shifting priorities.

Radical

刀

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

123

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Man, Husband

Reading

Parts

人Person 二Two

Example Word

大丈夫: okay. The Japanese adjectival noun '大丈夫 (だいじょうぶ)' means 'okay' or 'all right'. It is commonly used to express that something is fine, safe, or not a problem. It can also be used to reassure someone or to confirm that everything is going well. For example: Are you okay?「大丈夫ですか？」(だいじょうぶですか？). It's okay, don't worry「大丈夫、心配しないで」(だいじょうぶ、しんぱいしないで). This word is versatile and can be used in various contexts, such as checking on someone's well-being, confirming the safety of a situation, or reassuring someone about a potential concern.

Radical

大

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

133

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Heaven

Reading

Parts

一One 大Big

Example Word

天気予報: weather forecast. The Japanese noun '天気予報 (てんきよほう)' means 'weather forecast'. It refers to the prediction of weather conditions for a specific time and place, typically provided by meteorological services. This term is commonly used in daily conversations, news broadcasts, and weather reports. For example: The weather forecast says it will rain tomorrow「天気予報によると、明日は雨が降るそうです」(てんきよほうによると、あしたはあめがふるそうです). I always check the weather forecast before going out「出かける前にはいつも天気予報をチェックします」(でかけるまえにはいつもてんきよほうをチェックします).

Radical

大

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

136

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Father

Reading

Parts

八Eight 乂Govern

Example Word

お父さん: father. The Japanese noun 'お父さん (おとうさん)' means 'father'. It is a polite and affectionate term used to refer to one's own father or someone else's father. This term is commonly used in everyday conversation and is more casual than the formal term '父 (ちち)'. For example: my father is kind「私のお父さんは優しい」(わたしのおとうさんはやさしい). Where is your father?「あなたのお父さんはどこですか？」(あなたのおとうさんはどこですか？). It is important to note that 'お父さん' is often used by children when addressing their father directly.

Radical

父

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

137

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Pull

Reading

Parts

弓Bow 丨Stick

Example Word

値引き: discount. The Japanese verbal noun '値引き (ねびき)' refers to a reduction in price or a discount. It is commonly used in shopping contexts, negotiations, or when discussing price adjustments. For example: Can you give me a discount?「値引きしてくれませんか？」(ねびきしてくれませんか？). The store offered a 10% discount「その店は10％の値引きをした」(そのみせは10パーセントのねびきをした). This term is often used in business or retail settings to indicate a price reduction, and it can be applied to goods, services, or even bills.

Radical

弓

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

138

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Six

Reading

Parts

亠Lid 八Eight

Example Word

六千: six thousand. The Japanese noun '六千 (ろくせん)' means 'six thousand'. It is a numerical term used to denote the quantity of six thousand. This word is often used in contexts involving counting, pricing, or any situation where large numbers are discussed. For example: the price is six thousand yen「値段は六千円です」(ねだんはろくせんえんです). There are six thousand people in the audience「観客は六千人です」(かんきゃくはろくせんにんです). Note that '六千' is a specific number and is used in formal or written contexts, while in casual speech, numbers are often expressed in a more simplified manner.

Radical

八

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

140

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Thick, Fat

Reading

Parts

大Big 丶Dot

Example Word

太陽: sun. The Japanese noun '太陽 (たいよう)' means 'sun'. It refers to the star at the center of our solar system, which provides light and heat to Earth. This word is commonly used in both scientific and everyday contexts. For example: The sun is bright today「今日の太陽は明るい」(きょうのたいようはあかるい). 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). The word can also be used metaphorically to describe something or someone as a source of light or energy, such as in the phrase '彼は私の太陽 (かれはわたしのたいよう)' (He is my sun).

Radical

大

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

147

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Door

Reading

Parts

一One 尸Corpse

Example Word

戸棚: cupboard. The Japanese noun '戸棚 (とだな)' refers to a 'cupboard' or 'cabinet', typically used for storage. It is commonly found in kitchens, living rooms, or other areas of a home or workplace. The word is often used to describe furniture with doors and shelves for organizing items. For example: Please put the dishes in the cupboard「お皿を戸棚に入れてください」(おさらをとだなにいれてください). The cupboard is full of books「戸棚は本でいっぱいです」(とだなはほんでいっぱいです). This word is neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal settings.

Radical

戶

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

196

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Family name

Reading

Example Word

氏: surname. The Japanese noun '氏 (し)' refers to a person's surname or family name. It is often used in formal or written contexts, such as in official documents, news articles, or academic papers. For example: Mr. Tanaka's opinion「田中氏の意見」(たなかしのいけん). The term can also be used to refer to someone in a respectful manner, particularly when discussing their work or contributions. For instance: Dr. Suzuki's research「鈴木氏の研究」(すずきしのけんきゅう). Note that '氏' is typically used in third-person references and is not used when directly addressing someone.

Radical

氏

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

231

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Fire

Reading

Parts

人Person 丷Divide

Example Word

防火: fire prevention. The Japanese noun '防火 (ぼうか)' means 'fire prevention'. It refers to measures or actions taken to prevent fires. This term is commonly used in contexts related to safety, construction, and urban planning. For example: Fire prevention is important「防火は大切です」(ぼうかはたいせつです). They installed fire prevention equipment「彼らは防火設備を設置しました」(かれらはぼうかせつびをせっちしました). The term is often seen in signs and regulations, such as '防火区域 (ぼうかくいき)' which means 'fire prevention zone'.

Radical

火

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

232

Radical Form

灬

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Change

Reading

Parts

亻Person (人)匕Spoon

Example Word

変化: change or variation. The Japanese verbal noun '変化 (へんか)' primarily means 'change' or 'variation'. It refers to a transformation or alteration in state, form, or condition. This word is often used in contexts involving physical, chemical, or abstract changes. For example: The weather changes quickly「天気が急に変化する」(てんきがきゅうにへんかする). There is a variation in color「色に変化がある」(いろにへんかがある). It can also be used in scientific contexts, such as describing chemical changes or biological mutations. The word is neutral and can be applied to both positive and negative changes.

Radical

匕

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

236

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Public

Reading

Parts

八Eight 厶Private

Example Word

公式: official. The Japanese adjectival noun '公式 (こうしき)' means 'official'. It is used to describe something that is formally recognized, authorized, or endorsed by an organization, institution, or authority. This term is often used in contexts such as official statements, announcements, or events. For example: This is the official announcement「これは公式の発表です」(これはこうしきのはっぴょうです). The official website is easy to use「公式ウェブサイトは使いやすい」(こうしきウェブサイトはつかいやすい). It can also refer to mathematical formulas, but in everyday usage, it predominantly refers to official matters.

Radical

八

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

295

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Origin

Reading

Parts

二Two 儿Legs

Example Word

元々: originally. The Japanese adverb '元々 (もともと)' means 'originally' or 'from the start'. It is used to indicate that something has been a certain way since the beginning or to emphasize the inherent nature of something. This word is often used to clarify that a situation or condition is not new but has always existed. For example: I was originally from Kyoto「元々京都出身です」(もともときょうとしゅっしんです). This place was originally a park「元々ここは公園でした」(もともとここはこうえんでした). The word can also imply that something is natural or expected, as in '元々彼は優しい人です (もともとかれはやさしいひとです) (He was originally a kind person).'

Radical

儿

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

304

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Anti

Reading

Parts

厂Cliff 又Again

Example Word

反: anti. The Japanese prefix '反 (はん)' means 'anti' or 'against'. It is commonly used to form words that express opposition or resistance to something. For example: anti-war「反戦」(はんせん), anti-government「反政府」(はんせいふ), anti-social「反社会的」(はんしゃかいてき). This prefix is often attached to nouns to create compound words that convey a sense of opposition or contrast. It is important to note that '反 (はん)' is a prefix and not a standalone word, so it always appears at the beginning of a compound word.

Radical

又

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

326

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Well

Reading

Parts

二Two

Example Word

天井: ceiling. The Japanese noun '天井 (てんじょう)' refers to the ceiling of a room or structure. It is commonly used to describe the upper interior surface of a space. For example: the ceiling is high「天井が高い」(てんじょうがたかい). The light is attached to the ceiling「照明が天井に取り付けられている」(しょうめいがてんじょうにとりつけられている). In some contexts, it can also metaphorically represent a limit or boundary, such as in financial or performance terms, though this usage is less common.

Radical

二

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

329

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Friend

Reading

Parts

𠂇Cliff (厂)又Again

Example Word

友達: friend. The Japanese noun '友達 (ともだち)' means 'friend'. It refers to a person whom one knows, likes, and trusts. This word is commonly used in everyday conversation and is neutral in terms of formality. It can be used to describe both close friends and casual acquaintances. For example: I have many friends「友達がたくさんいます」(ともだちがたくさんいます). She is my best friend「彼女は私の親友です」(かのじょはわたしのしんゆうです). Note that '友達' is often used in informal contexts, while '友人 (ゆうじん)' is a more formal alternative.

Radical

又

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

336

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

King

Reading

Parts

一One 土Soil

Example Word

女王: queen. The Japanese noun '女王 (じょおう)' means 'queen'. It refers to a female monarch or the wife of a king. This term is used in both historical and modern contexts to denote a woman who holds the highest position of power in a monarchy. It can also be used metaphorically to describe a woman who is preeminent in a particular field or domain. Example sentences: The queen is loved by her people「女王は国民に愛されている」(じょおうはこくみんにあいされている). She is the queen of the fashion world「彼女はファッション界の女王だ」(かのじょはファッションかいのじょおうだ).

Radical

玉

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

363

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Stop

Reading

Parts

上Up 丨Stick

Example Word

廃止: abolition. The Japanese verbal noun '廃止 (はいし)' means 'abolition' or 'discontinuation'. It refers to the act of officially ending or stopping something, such as a system, law, or practice. This term is often used in formal or official contexts. For example: The government decided on the abolition of the law「政府はその法律の廃止を決定した」(せいふはそのほうりつのはいしをけっていした). The company announced the discontinuation of the service「その会社はサービスの廃止を発表した」(そのかいしゃはサービスのはいしをはっぴょうした). Note that '廃止' is typically used in written or formal speech, and its usage implies a permanent termination.

Radical

止

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

365

Radical Form

龰

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Fragment, One sided

Reading

Example Word

片方: one or side. The Japanese noun '片方 (かたほう)' refers to 'one' of a pair or 'one side' of something. It is often used when referring to one of two items, sides, or directions. For example: I lost one of my gloves「片方の手袋をなくした」(かたほうのてぶくろをなくした). Please look to one side「片方を見てください」(かたほうをみてください). The word emphasizes the existence of a pair or counterpart, and it is commonly used in contexts where only one part of a pair is being discussed or is relevant.

Radical

片

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

391

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Circle, Yen

Reading

Parts

冂Enclosure 丄Up (上)

Example Word

円: yen. The Japanese noun '円 (えん)' refers to the Japanese currency, the yen. It is used to denote monetary value in Japan. For example: This costs 100 yen「これは100円です」(これはひゃくえんです). I have 500 yen「500円持っています」(ごひゃくえんもっています). The word can also be used in contexts discussing currency exchange rates, prices, or financial transactions. It's important to note that '円' can also mean 'circle' in different contexts, but as a standalone noun with the reading 'えん', it primarily refers to the currency.

Radical

冂

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

520

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Mediate, Jammed in

Reading

Parts

人Person 丿Katakana no 丨Stick

Example Word

介入: intervention. The Japanese noun '介入 (かいにゅう)' means 'intervention'. It refers to the act of becoming involved in a situation, often to influence or change its outcome. This word is commonly used in contexts such as politics, medicine, or conflicts, where an external party steps in to alter the course of events. For example: The government's intervention was necessary「政府の介入が必要だった」(せいふのかいにゅうがひつようだった). The doctor recommended medical intervention「医者は医療介入を勧めた」(いしゃはいりょうかいにゅうをすすめた). Note that '介入' carries a neutral to formal tone and is often used in serious or professional contexts.

Radical

人

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

591

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Fur

Reading

Parts

乇Depend 丿Katakana no

Example Word

毛: hair. The Japanese noun '毛 (け)' refers to 'hair'. This word is used to describe the fine, thread-like strands that grow on the skin of humans and animals. It can refer to hair on the head, body hair, or even the fur of animals. For example: my hair is long「私の毛は長い」(わたしのけはながい). The cat's fur is soft「猫の毛は柔らかい」(ねこのけはやわらかい). It's important to note that '毛 (け)' is often used in compound words to specify different types of hair or fur, such as '頭の毛 (あたまのけ)' (head hair) or '動物の毛 (どうぶつのけ)' (animal fur).

Radical

毛

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

602

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Compare, Ratio

Reading

Example Word

比率: ratio. The Japanese noun '比率 (ひりつ)' means 'ratio'. It refers to the quantitative relation between two amounts showing the number of times one value contains or is contained within the other. This term is commonly used in mathematical, scientific, and financial contexts to describe proportions or comparative relationships. For example: The ratio of men to women is 2:1「男性と女性の比率は2:1です」(だんせいとじょせいのひりつは2:1です). The ratio of sugar to flour in this recipe is 1:3「このレシピの砂糖と小麦粉の比率は1:3です」(このレシピのさとうとこむぎこのひりつは1:3です).

Radical

比

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

604

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Buddha

Reading

Parts

亻Person (人)厶Private

Example Word

念仏: prayer. The Japanese noun '念仏 (ねんぶつ)' refers to the act of chanting or reciting Buddhist prayers, specifically the name of Amida Buddha (Amitabha Buddha). This practice is central to certain schools of Pure Land Buddhism, where it is believed that chanting 'Namu Amida Butsu' (南無阿弥陀仏) can lead to rebirth in the Pure Land. The term can also be used more broadly to refer to any Buddhist prayer or invocation. For example: He chants prayers every morning「彼は毎朝念仏を唱える」(かれはまいあさねんぶつをとなえる). The old woman devoted her life to prayer「その老女は念仏に人生を捧げた」(そのろうじょはねんぶつにじんせいをささげた).

Radical

人

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

622

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Beforehand

Reading

Parts

亅Barb 乛Second (乙)マKatakana ma

Example Word

予算: budget. The Japanese noun '予算 (よさん)' means 'budget'. It refers to a financial plan or estimate of income and expenses for a set period of time. This term is commonly used in both personal and organizational contexts, such as government budgets, company budgets, or household budgets. For example: The budget for this project is tight「このプロジェクトの予算は厳しい」(このプロジェクトのよさんはきびしい). We need to adjust the budget「予算を調整する必要がある」(よさんをちょうせいするひつようがある). The word can also be used in compound terms like '予算案 (よさんあん)' (budget proposal) or '予算編成 (よさんへんせい)' (budget formulation).

Radical

亅

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

647

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Dog

Reading

Parts

大Big 丶Dot

Example Word

犬: dog. The Japanese noun '犬 (いぬ)' means 'dog'. This word is used to refer to the domesticated animal known for its loyalty and companionship. It is commonly used in everyday conversation and can be found in various contexts, such as describing pets, breeds, or even in idiomatic expressions. For example: That dog is cute「あの犬はかわいい」(あのいぬはかわいい). I have a dog「私は犬を飼っています」(わたしはいぬをかっています). The word '犬' can also be used metaphorically in phrases like '犬猿の仲 (けんえんのなか)', which means 'like cats and dogs' or 'having a bad relationship'.

Radical

犬

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

681

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Noon

Reading

Parts

𠂉Person (人)十Ten

Example Word

午前: morning or AM. The Japanese noun '午前 (ごぜん)' refers to the time period from midnight to noon, commonly known as 'morning' or 'AM' in English. It is often used in contexts related to time, schedules, or appointments. For example: The meeting is at 10 AM「会議は午前10時です」(かいぎはごぜんじゅうじです). I wake up early in the morning「私は午前中に早く起きます」(わたしはごぜんちゅうにはやくおきます). Note that '午前' is typically used in formal or written contexts, while '朝 (あさ)' is more commonly used in casual speech to refer to the morning.

Radical

十

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

753

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Cow

Reading

Parts

𠂉Person (人)十Ten

Example Word

牛: cow or ox. The Japanese noun '牛 (うし)' refers to cattle, specifically cows or oxen. It is commonly used to describe the animal itself, whether in a domestic or wild context. The word can also be used metaphorically or in idiomatic expressions. For example: The cow is grazing in the field「牛が野原で草を食べている」(うしがのはらでくさをたべている). We saw an ox at the farm「農場で牛を見た」(のうじょうでうしをみた). The term can also appear in compound words, such as '牛肉 (ぎゅうにく)' meaning 'beef'.

Radical

牛

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

821

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Mutual

Reading

Parts

一One 二Two 彑

Example Word

お互い: each other. The Japanese noun 'お互い (おたがい)' means 'each other' or 'mutually'. It is used to describe a reciprocal relationship or action between two or more parties. This word is often used in contexts where people are doing something for or to each other. For example: We should help each other「私たちはお互いを助けるべきです」(わたしたちはおたがいをたすけるべきです). They respect each other「彼らはお互いを尊重します」(かれらはおたがいをそんちょうします). 'お互い' can also imply a sense of shared understanding or commonality, as in 'お互い様 (おたがいさま)', which means 'it's mutual' or 'we're in the same boat'.

Radical

二

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

835

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Foot

Reading

Parts

尸Corpse

Example Word

尺: length. The Japanese suffix '尺 (しゃく)' refers to a traditional unit of length, approximately equivalent to 30.3 centimeters. It is derived from the Chinese 'chi' and was historically used in Japan for measuring cloth, paper, and other materials. While it is less commonly used in modern times, it may still appear in traditional contexts or specific industries. For example: this cloth is two shaku long「この布は二尺です」(このぬのはにしゃくです). The room is ten shaku wide「この部屋は十尺の広さです」(このへやはじゅっしゃくのひろさです). Note that '尺' can also appear in compound words, such as '巻尺 (まきじゃく)' (measuring tape).

Radical

尸

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

1027

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Lack

Reading

Example Word

欠ける: lack or chip. The Japanese verb '欠ける (かける)' has two distinct meanings. The first meaning is 'to lack' or 'to be missing', often used to describe something that is incomplete or insufficient. For example: this plan lacks a clear goal「この計画は明確な目標が欠けている」(このけいかくはめいかくなもくひょうがかけている). The second meaning is 'to chip' or 'to break off', referring to a physical object losing a piece. For example: the cup chipped when it fell「カップは落ちて欠けた」(カップはおちてかけた). These meanings are unrelated and depend on the context in which the verb is used.

Radical

欠

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

1037

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

District

Reading

Parts

匸Side enclosure 乂Govern

Example Word

区切る: divide or separate. The Japanese verb '区切る (くぎる)' means 'to divide' or 'to separate'. It is used to describe the action of splitting something into distinct parts or sections, often by setting boundaries or markers. This verb can be applied to physical spaces, time periods, or abstract concepts. For example: divide the text into paragraphs「文章を段落で区切る」(ぶんしょうをだんらくでくぎる). Separate the room with a curtain「部屋をカーテンで区切る」(へやをカーテンでくぎる). The verb can also imply creating clear distinctions or organizing something into manageable parts.

Radical

匸

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

1042

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Cinnabar, Rust colored

Reading

Parts

丶Dot 冂Enclosure

Radical

丶

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

1044

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Obtain

Reading

Parts

丩 又Again

Example Word

徴収: collection. The Japanese noun '徴収 (ちょうしゅう)' refers to the act of collecting something, typically fees, taxes, or dues, often in an official or mandatory capacity. It is commonly used in contexts involving government or organizational procedures. For example: The government collects taxes「政府は税金を徴収する」(せいふはぜいきんをちょうしゅうする). The company collects membership fees「会社は会費を徴収する」(かいしゃはかいひをちょうしゅうする). This term is formal and is often used in administrative or legal contexts.

Radical

又

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

1107

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Scanty, Scarce

Reading

Parts

丿Katakana no 之

Example Word

貧乏: poor. The Japanese adjectival noun '貧乏 (びんぼう)' means 'poor' in the sense of lacking financial resources. It describes a state of poverty or being impoverished. This word is often used to describe individuals, families, or situations where there is a lack of money or material wealth. For example: he is poor「彼は貧乏だ」(かれはびんぼうだ). We grew up poor「私たちは貧乏に育った」(わたしたちはびんぼうにそだった). It can also be used in compound words like '貧乏人 (びんぼうにん)' (poor person) or '貧乏生活 (びんぼうせいかつ)' (life of poverty). Note that this word carries a neutral to slightly negative connotation and is not typically used in formal contexts.

Radical

丿

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

1139

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Hole, Cavity

Reading

Parts

子Child 乚

Radical

子

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

1214

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Fragrance, Scent

Reading

Parts

勹Wrap 匕Spoon

Example Word

匂う: smell or suggest. The Japanese verb '匂う (におう)' has two primary meanings. The first is 'to smell', which refers to emitting an odor, either pleasant or unpleasant. For example: The flowers smell good「花がいい匂いがする」(はながいいにおいがする). The second meaning is 'to suggest' or 'to hint at', often used to imply something indirectly. For example: His words suggest a hidden meaning「彼の言葉には何か匂うものがある」(かれのことばにはなかににおうものがある). The verb can be used in both literal and figurative contexts, making it versatile in Japanese.

Radical

勹

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

1256

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Illusion

Reading

Parts

幺Slight

Example Word

幻想: illusion or fantasy. The Japanese noun '幻想 (げんそう)' can mean both 'illusion' and 'fantasy', depending on the context. It refers to something that is imagined or perceived but not real. When used to mean 'illusion', it often describes a deceptive or misleading perception. For example: he lives in an illusion「彼は幻想の中に生きている」(かれはげんそうのなかにいきている). When used to mean 'fantasy', it refers to a creative or imaginative idea. For example: her story is full of fantasy「彼女の物語は幻想に満ちている」(かのじょのものがたりはげんそうにみちている). The word is commonly used in literature, art, and discussions about perception versus reality.

Radical

幺

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

1286

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Benevolent, Humanity

Reading

Parts

亻Person (人)二Two

Radical

人

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

1292

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Equal, Counter for animals

Reading

Parts

匚 儿Legs

Example Word

匹: counter. The Japanese suffix '匹 (ひき)' is a counter used for small animals, such as cats, dogs, fish, and insects. It is one of the most common counters in Japanese and is essential for counting animals. The reading 'ひき' changes depending on the number it follows due to rendaku (voicing) and phonetic rules. For example: one cat「猫一匹」(ねこいっぴき), two dogs「犬二匹」(いぬにひき), three fish「魚三匹」(さかなさんびき). Note that the counter does not change based on the size of the animal, but rather the category (small animals). This suffix is widely used in everyday conversation and is a fundamental part of Japanese counting systems.

Radical

匸

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

1326

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Both, Pair

Reading

Parts

又Again

Example Word

双方: both. The Japanese noun '双方 (そうほう)' means 'both' or 'both parties'. It is used to refer to two sides, parties, or aspects of a situation. This term is often used in formal or legal contexts to emphasize the involvement or agreement of two parties. For example: Both parties agreed「双方が同意した」(そうほうがどういした). Both sides are responsible「双方が責任を負う」(そうほうがせきにんをおう). The word is neutral and can be applied to people, groups, or abstract concepts.

Radical

又

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

1392

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Redundant, Superfluous

Reading

Parts

冖Crown 几

Example Word

冗談: joke. The Japanese noun '冗談 (じょうだん)' means 'joke'. It refers to something said or done to provoke laughter or amusement, often in a playful or lighthearted manner. This word is commonly used in casual conversations and can be part of phrases like '冗談を言う (じょうだんをいう)', which means 'to tell a joke'. For example: That was just a joke「それはただの冗談だった」(それはただのじょうだんだった). Don't take it seriously, it's a joke「真剣に受け取らないで、冗談だよ」(しんけんにうけとらないで、じょうだんだよ). The word can also imply teasing or sarcasm depending on the context.

Radical

冖

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

1469

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Claw

Reading

Example Word

爪: nail. The Japanese noun '爪 (つめ)' refers to the 'nail' on a finger or toe. It is used to describe the hard, keratinous covering at the end of digits in humans and animals. For example: I cut my nails「爪を切った」(つめをきった). Her nails are long「彼女の爪は長い」(かのじょのつめはながい). This word can also be used metaphorically to describe something sharp or claw-like, but its primary meaning is related to the physical nail.

Radical

爪

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

1492

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Misfortune, Unlucky

Reading

Parts

厂Cliff 㔾

Example Word

厄介: trouble. The Japanese noun '厄介 (やっかい)' primarily means 'trouble' or 'bother'. It refers to something that is troublesome, inconvenient, or difficult to deal with. This word can be used to describe situations, tasks, or even people who are causing difficulty. For example: He is a troublesome person「彼は厄介な人だ」(かれはやっかいなひとだ). This problem is a real hassle「この問題は本当に厄介だ」(このもんだいはほんとうにやっかいだ). The word can also imply a sense of burden or responsibility, as in taking care of someone who is dependent on you.

Radical

厂

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

1613

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Reap, Clip

Reading

Parts

㐅Katakana me 刂Sword (刀)

Radical

刀

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

1698

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Ladle, Dipper

Reading

Radical

斗

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

1772

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Sho, Measuring box

Reading

Parts

十Ten 廾Twenty

Radical

十

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

1809

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Villain, Bad luck

Reading

Parts

凵Open box 㐅Katakana me

Radical

凵

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

1875

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Flexed, Hooked

Reading

Parts

勹Wrap 厶Private

Radical

勹

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

2014

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Mourn, Condolence

Reading

Parts

弓Bow 丨Stick

Radical

弓

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

2026

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Barracks, Station troops

Reading

Radical

屮

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

2061

Handwriting

kanji

Meaning

Axe, Catty

Reading

Radical

斤

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

2067

Handwriting