Jōyō KanjiOrganized by Stroke Count
9 Strokes
kanji
看Meaning
Watch
Reading
kan
Parts
手Hand 目Eye
Example Word
看護: nursing. The Japanese verbal noun '看護 (かんご)' refers to the act or profession of nursing, which involves caring for the sick or infirm. It is commonly used in contexts related to healthcare and medical services. For example: She is studying nursing「彼女は看護を勉強しています」(かのじょはかんごをべんきょうしています). The hospital needs more nursing staff「病院はもっと看護スタッフが必要です」(びょういんはもっとかんごスタッフがひつようです). This term is often associated with professional caregiving roles and is a key concept in medical and healthcare settings.
Radical
目
Stroke Count
9JLPT
N1Grade
6Frequency
1053
Handwriting
kanji
省Meaning
Ministry, Conserve
Reading
kaeri
はぶhabu
onyomiしょうshou
せいsei
Parts
少Few 目Eye
Example Word
省: ministry. The Japanese suffix '省 (しょう)' refers to a government ministry or department. It is commonly used in the names of various ministries in Japan, such as '外務省 (がいむしょう)' (Ministry of Foreign Affairs) or '財務省 (ざいむしょう)' (Ministry of Finance). This suffix is attached to the name of the specific area of governance to denote the corresponding ministry. For example: Ministry of Education「文部科学省」(もんぶかがくしょう). Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare「厚生労働省」(こうせいろうどうしょう). The term is formal and is used in official contexts to refer to government bodies.
Radical
目
Stroke Count
9JLPT
N2Grade
4Frequency
1058
Handwriting
kanji
則Meaning
Rule
Reading
soku
Parts
貝Shellfish 刂Sword (刀)
Example Word
法則: law. The Japanese noun '法則 (ほうそく)' refers to a 'law' or 'principle' that governs natural phenomena, scientific rules, or general patterns. It is often used in contexts related to science, mathematics, or philosophy to describe universal rules or consistent patterns. For example: Newton's law of motion「ニュートンの運動法則」(にゅーとんのうんどうほうそく). This principle applies universally「この法則は普遍的に適用される」(このほうそくはふへんてきにてきようされる). The word can also be used metaphorically to describe patterns in human behavior or societal rules, such as 'the law of supply and demand'「需要と供給の法則」(じゅようときょうきゅうのほうそく).
Radical
刀
Stroke Count
9JLPT
N2Grade
5Frequency
1065
Handwriting
kanji
畑Meaning
Field
Reading
hata
はたけhatake
Parts
火Fire 田Rice field
Example Word
田畑: fields. The Japanese noun '田畑 (たはた)' refers to cultivated fields, specifically rice fields (田) and other crop fields (畑). It is used to describe agricultural land where crops are grown. This word is often used in rural or farming contexts. For example: the fields stretch far and wide「田畑が広がっている」(たはたがひろがっている). Farmers work in the fields「農家は田畑で働く」(のうかはたはたではたらく). Note that '田畑' is a compound noun combining two types of fields, emphasizing the broader agricultural landscape.
Radical
田
Stroke Count
9JLPT
UnknownGrade
3Frequency
1077
Handwriting
kanji
柱Meaning
Pillar
Reading
hashira
onyomiちゅうchuu
Parts
木Tree, Wood 主Master
Example Word
柱: pillar or support. The Japanese noun '柱 (はしら)' primarily means 'pillar', referring to a vertical structural element that supports a building or structure. It can also metaphorically mean 'support', as in a person or thing that provides essential backing or stability. For example: The temple's pillars are strong「その寺の柱は強い」(そのてらのはしらはつよい). He is the pillar of our team「彼は私たちのチームの柱だ」(かれはわたしたちのチームのはしらだ). The word can be used both literally and figuratively, depending on the context.
Radical
木
Stroke Count
9JLPT
N2Grade
3Frequency
1087
Handwriting
kanji
律Meaning
Law, Rhythm
Reading
ritsu
りちrichi
Parts
彳Stop 聿Brush
Example Word
法律: law. The Japanese noun '法律 (ほうりつ)' refers to 'law' in the sense of a system of rules established by a government or authority. It is used to describe legal statutes, regulations, or the body of laws governing a society. This term is often used in formal or legal contexts. For example: This law protects the environment「この法律は環境を守る」(このほうりつはかんきょうをまもる). He studies law at university「彼は大学で法律を勉強している」(かれはだいがくでほうりつをべんきょうしている). The nuance of '法律' is broader than specific rules or regulations, as it refers to the overall legal framework.
Radical
彳
Stroke Count
9JLPT
N2Grade
6Frequency
1095
Handwriting
kanji
革Meaning
Reform, Leather
Reading
kawa
onyomiかくkaku
Example Word
革新: innovation. The Japanese noun '革新 (かくしん)' refers to 'innovation' or a significant change that introduces new methods, ideas, or products. It is often used in contexts related to technology, business, or societal changes. For example: The company is known for its innovation「その会社は革新で知られている」(そのかいしゃはかくしんでしられている). This technology represents a major innovation「この技術は大きな革新を表している」(このぎじゅつはおおきなかくしんをあらわしている). The word emphasizes the introduction of something new and transformative, often leading to improvements or advancements in a particular field.
Radical
革
Stroke Count
9JLPT
N2Grade
6Frequency
1100
Handwriting
kanji
専Meaning
Exclusive, Specialty
Reading
moppa
onyomiせんsen
Parts
叀 寸Measurement
Example Word
専門家: expert. The Japanese noun '専門家 (せんもん か)' means 'expert'. It refers to a person who has specialized knowledge, skills, or experience in a particular field. This term is often used in professional or academic contexts to describe someone who is highly skilled or knowledgeable in their area of expertise. For example: He is an expert in economics「彼は経済の専門家です」(かれはけいざいのせんもんかです). We need to consult an expert「専門家に相談する必要があります」(せんもんかにそうだんするひつようがあります). The word can also imply a level of authority or trustworthiness in the given field.
Radical
寸
Stroke Count
9JLPT
N2Grade
6Frequency
1132
Handwriting
kanji
狭Meaning
Narrow
Reading
sema
せばseba
onyomiきょうkyou
Parts
犬Dog 夹
Example Word
狭まる: narrow. The Japanese verb '狭まる (せばまる)' means 'to narrow' or 'to become narrow'. It describes the process of something becoming physically or metaphorically narrower. This verb is often used to describe spaces, gaps, or even abstract concepts like differences or options. For example: the gap between the two teams narrowed「二つのチームの差が狭まった」(ふたつのチームのさがせばまった). The road narrows ahead「この先、道が狭まります」(このさき、みちがせばまります). It is important to note that '狭まる' is an intransitive verb, meaning it does not take a direct object and focuses on the subject undergoing the change.
Radical
犬
Stroke Count
9JLPT
N1Grade
7Frequency
1150
Handwriting
kanji
拭Meaning
Wipe
Reading
fu
ぬぐnugu
onyomiしょくshoku
しきshiki
Parts
扌Hand (手)式Style, Ceremony
Example Word
拭く: wipe. The Japanese verb '拭く (ふく)' means 'to wipe'. It is commonly used when cleaning or drying surfaces by removing dirt, dust, or moisture. For example: I wiped the table「テーブルを拭いた」(テーブルをふいた). She wiped her tears「彼女は涙を拭いた」(かのじょはなみだをふいた). This verb can also be used metaphorically, such as wiping away worries or problems. It is important to note that '拭く' is often used with objects like cloths or tissues, as in '布で拭く (ぬのでふく) (wipe with a cloth)'.
Radical
手
Stroke Count
9JLPT
UnknownGrade
10Frequency
1156
Handwriting
kanji
厚Meaning
Thick, Kind
Reading
atsu
onyomiこうkou
Parts
厂Cliff 日Day, Sun 子Child
Example Word
厚い: thick or kind. The Japanese adjective '厚い (あつい)' has two primary meanings. The first meaning is 'thick', referring to the physical thickness of an object, such as a book or a piece of clothing. For example: this book is thick「この本は厚い」(このほんはあつい). The second meaning is 'kind' or 'deep', often used to describe someone's kindness or the depth of a relationship. For example: he is very kind「彼はとても厚い人だ」(かれはとてもあついひとだ). It's important to note that the context in which '厚い' is used will determine whether it refers to physical thickness or emotional depth.
Radical
厂
Stroke Count
9JLPT
N2Grade
5Frequency
1170
Handwriting
kanji
拾Meaning
Pick up
Reading
hiro
onyomiしゅうshuu
Parts
扌Hand (手)合Fit, Match
Example Word
拾う: pickup. The Japanese verb '拾う (ひろう)' means 'to pick up'. It is used when someone picks up something from the ground or a surface, often implying that the object was dropped or lost. This verb can also be used metaphorically to mean picking up on something, such as a signal or a hint. For example: I picked up a coin「私はコインを拾った」(わたしはこいんをひろう). He picked up on her subtle hint「彼は彼女の微妙なヒントを拾った」(かれはかのじょのびみょうなヒントをひろう). Note that this verb is transitive and requires a direct object.
Radical
手
Stroke Count
9JLPT
N2Grade
3Frequency
1175
Handwriting
kanji
封Meaning
Seal
Reading
hou
ふうfuu
Parts
圭 寸Measurement
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
寸
Stroke Count
9JLPT
N2Grade
8Frequency
1176
Handwriting
kanji
祝Meaning
Celebrate
Reading
iwa
onyomiしゅうshuu
しゅくshuku
Parts
礻Cult (示)兄Older brother
Example Word
祝う: celebrate. The Japanese verb '祝う (いわう)' means 'to celebrate'. It is used to express the act of celebrating an event, occasion, or achievement. This verb can be used in various contexts, such as celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, or cultural festivals. For example: We celebrated the New Year「新年を祝った」(しんねんをいわった). They celebrated their wedding anniversary「彼らは結婚記念日を祝った」(かれらはけっこんきねんびをいわった). The verb can also be used in more formal or ceremonial contexts, such as celebrating a company milestone or a national holiday. It is important to note that '祝う' often implies a sense of joy and festivity.
Radical
示
Stroke Count
9JLPT
N2Grade
4Frequency
1182
Handwriting
kanji
臭Meaning
Stinking, Bad smell
Reading
kusa
onyomiしゅうshuu
Parts
自Self 大Big
Example Word
臭い: smelly. The Japanese adjective '臭い (くさい)' means 'smelly' or 'having a bad odor'. It is used to describe something that emits an unpleasant smell. This word can also be used metaphorically to describe something suspicious or fishy in a non-literal sense. For example: This cheese is smelly「このチーズは臭い」(このチーズはくさい). Something about this situation seems fishy「この状況は何か臭い」(このじょうきょうはなにかくさい). Note that '臭い' can sometimes carry a negative connotation, so it should be used carefully in conversation.
Radical
自
Stroke Count
9JLPT
N1Grade
9Frequency
1192
Handwriting
kanji
拶Meaning
Draw close, Be imminent
Reading
satsu
Example Word
挨拶: greeting. The Japanese verbal noun '挨拶 (あいさつ)' primarily means 'greeting'. It refers to the act of greeting someone, which can include saying hello, goodbye, or other polite expressions. This word is deeply rooted in Japanese culture, emphasizing politeness and social harmony. It can also refer to formal speeches or remarks made at events. Example sentences: He gave a greeting「彼は挨拶をした」(かれはあいさつをした). Please say hello to everyone「みんなに挨拶してください」(みんなにあいさつしてください). In a formal setting, '挨拶' might refer to a speech: The president made an opening greeting「社長が開会の挨拶をした」(しゃちょうがかいかいのあいさつをした).
Radical
手
Stroke Count
9JLPT
UnknownGrade
10Frequency
1195
Handwriting
kanji
眉Meaning
Eyebrows
Reading
mayu
onyomiみmi
Parts
目Eye
Example Word
眉毛: eyebrow. The Japanese noun '眉毛 (まゆげ)' refers to the 'eyebrow', the strip of hair above the eye. This word is commonly used in everyday conversation and can be found in various contexts, such as describing facial features or discussing grooming. For example: Her eyebrows are thick「彼女の眉毛は濃い」(かのじょのまゆげはこい). I plucked my eyebrows「眉毛を抜いた」(まゆげをぬいた). The word is straightforward and does not carry additional nuanced meanings, making it easy to use in both casual and formal settings.
Radical
目
Stroke Count
9JLPT
N1Grade
10Frequency
1201
Handwriting
kanji
卑Meaning
Mean, Lowly
Reading
iya
onyomiひhi
Parts
白White 丿Katakana no 十Ten
Example Word
卑しい: vulgar or greedy. The Japanese adjective '卑しい (いやしい)' can mean 'greedy' or 'vulgar'. When used to mean 'greedy', it describes someone who is excessively desirous of wealth or possessions. For example: He is greedy for money「彼は金に卑しい」(かれはかねにいやしい). When used to mean 'vulgar', it describes something or someone that is lacking in refinement or good taste. For example: Her manners are vulgar「彼女のマナーは卑しい」(かのじょのマナーはいやしい). The word carries a negative connotation and is often used to criticize someone's behavior or character.
Radical
十
Stroke Count
9JLPT
N1Grade
8Frequency
1213
Handwriting
kanji
枯Meaning
Wither
Reading
ka
onyomiこko
Parts
木Tree, Wood 古Old
Example Word
木枯らし: winter wind. The Japanese noun '木枯らし (こがらし)' refers to a cold, dry wind that blows in late autumn or early winter, signaling the arrival of winter. It is often associated with the withering of leaves and the transition to colder weather. This word carries a poetic nuance and is frequently used in literature and seasonal descriptions. Example sentences: The winter wind blows through the trees「木枯らしが木々を通り抜ける」(こがらしがききをとおりぬける). I felt the chill of the winter wind「木枯らしの冷たさを感じた」(こがらしのつめたさをかんじた).
Radical
木
Stroke Count
9JLPT
N2Grade
7Frequency
1217
Handwriting
kanji
宣Meaning
Proclaim, Promulgate
Reading
sen
Parts
宀Roof 亘
Example Word
宣伝: advertising. The Japanese verbal noun '宣伝 (せんでん)' primarily means 'advertising' or 'promotion'. It refers to the act of spreading information about a product, service, or event to attract public attention. This term is commonly used in both commercial and non-commercial contexts. For example: The company is advertising a new product「会社は新しい製品を宣伝しています」(かいしゃはあたらしいせいひんをせんでんしています). They are promoting the event on TV「彼らはそのイベントをテレビで宣伝していま す」(かれらはそのイベントをテレビでせんでんしています). '宣伝' can also imply a sense of exaggeration or hype, depending on the context, so it's important to consider the nuance when using or interpreting this word.
Radical
宀
Stroke Count
9JLPT
N1Grade
6Frequency
1244
Handwriting
kanji
柔Meaning
Soft, Gentle
Reading
yawa
onyomiじゅうjuu
にゅうnyuu
Parts
木Tree, Wood 矛Halberd
Example Word
柔軟: flexible. The Japanese adjective '柔軟 (じゅうなん)' means 'flexible'. It is used to describe something that can bend or adapt easily without breaking. This can refer to physical objects, such as materials, or abstract concepts, like thinking or attitudes. For example: She has a flexible mind「彼女は柔軟な考え方を持っている」(かのじょはじゅうなんなかんがえかたをもっている). This rubber is very flexible「このゴムはとても柔軟だ」(このゴムはとてもじゅうなんだ). The word can also imply adaptability or openness to change, as in '柔軟な対応 (じゅうなんなたいおう) (flexible response)'.
Radical
木
Stroke Count
9JLPT
N2Grade
7Frequency
1246
Handwriting
kanji
悔Meaning
Repent, Regret
Reading
ku
くやkuya
onyomiかいkai
Parts
忄 毎Every
Example Word
悔しい: frustrating. The Japanese adjective '悔しい (くやしい)' conveys a feeling of frustration, regret, or vexation, often arising from a sense of missed opportunity, failure, or unfairness. It is commonly used to express emotional distress when something does not go as planned or when one feels they could have done better. For example: It's frustrating to lose the game「試合 に負けて悔しい」(しあいにまけてくやしい). I feel frustrated because I couldn't say what I wanted「言いたいことが言えなくて悔しい」(いいたいことがいえなくてくやしい). This word is deeply tied to personal emotions and is often used in contexts where one reflects on their own actions or circumstances.
Radical
心
Stroke Count
9JLPT
N1Grade
8Frequency
1290
Handwriting
kanji
昭Meaning
Shining
Reading
shou
Parts
日Day, Sun 召Seduce, Summon
Example Word
昭和: Showa. The Japanese noun '昭和 (しょうわ)' refers to the Showa era, which was the period of Japanese history corresponding to the reign of Emperor Hirohito, from December 25, 1926, to January 7, 1989. This era is often associated with significant events in Japan, including World War II, the post-war economic miracle, and the country's rise as a global economic power. The term is also used to describe things or cultural aspects from that period. For example: The Showa era was a time of great change「昭和時代は大きな変化の時代でした」(しょうわじだいはおおきなへんかのじだいでした). This is a Showa-style house「これは昭和風の家です」(これはしょうわふうのいえです).
Radical
日
Stroke Count
9JLPT
N1Grade
3Frequency
1291
Handwriting
kanji
県Meaning
Prefecture
Reading
ken
Parts
𠃊Second (乙)目Eye 小Small
Example Word
県庁: prefecture office. The Japanese noun '県庁 (けんちょう)' refers to the 'prefecture office' or 'prefectural government office'. This is the administrative center of a prefecture in Japan, where local government affairs are managed. It is typically the main building where the governor and other government officials work. Example sentences include: The prefecture office is near the station 「県庁は駅の近くです」 (けんちょうはえきのちかくです). I went to the prefecture office today 「今日は県庁に行きました」 (きょうはけんちょうにいきました). Note that '県庁' is specifically used for the prefectural level, distinct from city or ward offices.
Radical
目
Stroke Count
9JLPT
N2Grade
3Frequency
1295
Handwriting
kanji
孤Meaning
Orphan, Solitary
Reading
ko
Parts
子Child 瓜
Example Word
孤独: loneliness. The Japanese adjectival noun '孤独 (こどく)' means 'loneliness'. It describes the state of being alone, isolated, or feeling disconnected from others. This word often carries an emotional weight, emphasizing the sadness or emptiness associated with being alone. For example: he felt deep loneliness「彼は深い孤独を感じた」(かれはふかいこどくをかんじた). Loneliness is a common theme in literature「孤独は文学のよくあるテーマだ」(こどくはぶんがくのよくあるテーマだ). It can also be used to describe a physical state of being alone, but it is more commonly associated with emotional isolation.
Radical
子
Stroke Count
9JLPT
N1Grade
8Frequency
1318
Handwriting
kanji
奏Meaning
Play music
Reading
kana
onyomiそうsou
Parts
禾Cereal
Example Word
演奏: performance. The Japanese verbal noun '演奏 (えんそう)' refers to the act of performing music, typically on an instrument or as part of an ensemble. It is commonly used in contexts involving concerts, recitals, or any musical presentation. For example: The piano performance was beautiful「ピアノの演奏は美しかった」(ぴあののえんそうはうつくしかった). I will attend a violin performance tomorrow「明日、バイオリンの演奏を聴きに行きます」(あした、ばいおりんのえんそうをききにいきます). This word is often associated with formal or artistic settings and emphasizes the act of playing music rather than just listening to it.
Radical
大
Stroke Count
9JLPT
N1Grade
6Frequency
1324
Handwriting
kanji
胆Meaning
Gallbladder, Guts
Reading
kimo
onyomiたんtan
Parts
肉Meat 旦Dawn
Example Word
大胆: daring or bold. The Japanese adjectival noun '大胆 (だいたん)' primarily means 'bold' or 'daring'. It is used to describe actions, plans, or personalities that are fearless, adventurous, or unconventional. This term often carries a positive connotation, suggesting courage and a willingness to take risks. For example: His bold plan succeeded「彼の大胆な計画は成功した」(かれのだいたんなけいかくはせいこうした). She is known for her daring fashion sense「彼女は大胆なファッションセンスで知られている」(かのじょはだいたんなファッションセンスでしられている). Note that '大胆' can also imply a certain level of audacity or recklessness, depending on the context.
Radical
肉
Stroke Count
9JLPT
N1Grade
8Frequency
1331
Handwriting
kanji
荘Meaning
Solemn, Villa
Reading
houki
あごそagoso
onyomiそうsou
しょうshou
ちゃんchan
Parts
艹Grass 壮Grand, Robust
Example Word
荘: villa. The Japanese suffix '荘 (しょう)' is used to denote a villa, mansion, or a type of residence, often implying a certain level of elegance or grandeur. It is commonly found in the names of residential buildings, hotels, or estates. For example: a luxurious villa「豪華な荘」(ごうかなしょう). This suffix can also be part of the name of a place, such as a hotel or a resort, indicating a place of lodging or retreat. For instance: staying at a mountain villa「山荘に泊まる」(さんしょうにとまる). The usage of '荘' often conveys a sense of traditional or upscale accommodation.
Radical
艸
Stroke Count
9JLPT
N1Grade
9Frequency
1334
Handwriting
kanji
恨Meaning
Grudge
Reading
ura
onyomiこんkon
Parts
忄 艮Stopping
Example Word
恨み: resentment. The Japanese noun '恨み (うらみ)' means 'resentment'. It refers to a deep-seated feeling of bitterness or anger towards someone due to a perceived wrong or injustice. This word is often used in contexts involving personal grievances or long-held grudges. For example: she felt resentment towards her friend「彼女は友達に恨みを抱いていた」(かのじょはともだちにうらみをいだいていた). His resentment grew over time「彼の恨みは時間とともに強くなった」(かれのうらみはじかんとともにつよくなった). The term can also be used in literary or dramatic contexts to describe intense emotional conflicts.
Radical
心
Stroke Count
9JLPT
N1Grade
8Frequency
1342
Handwriting
kanji
炭Meaning
Charcoal
Reading
sumi
onyomiたんtan
Parts
山Mountain 灰Ashes
Example Word
石炭: coal. The Japanese noun '石炭 (せきたん)' refers to 'coal', a combustible black or brownish-black sedimentary rock used as a fuel. This word is commonly used in contexts related to energy, mining, or historical references to industrialization. For example: Coal is an important energy resource「石炭は重要なエネルギー資源です」(せきたんはじゅうようなエネルギーしげんです). They used coal to heat the house「彼らは家を暖めるために石炭を使いました」(かれらはいえをあたためるためにせきたんをつかいました). The word is neutral in tone and is typically used in technical, historical, or everyday contexts.
Radical
火
Stroke Count
9JLPT
N2Grade
3Frequency
1356
Handwriting
kanji
某Meaning
A certain
Reading
nanigashi
それがしsoregashi
onyomiぼうbou
Parts
甘Sweet 木Tree, Wood
Example Word
某: certain. The Japanese noun '某 (ぼう)' is used to refer to a certain or unspecified person, place, or thing. It is often used when the speaker does not want to or cannot specify the exact identity of the subject. For example: a certain person came to visit「某が訪ねてきた」(ぼうがたずねてきた). I heard it from a certain source「某から聞いた」(ぼうからきいた). The word is somewhat formal and is commonly used in written language or formal speech. It can also be used to anonymize or generalize a subject in a narrative or report.
Radical
木
Stroke Count
9JLPT
N1Grade
8Frequency
1444
Handwriting
kanji
施Meaning
Alms, Carry out
Reading
hodoko
onyomiしshi
せse
Parts
方Direction
Example Word
実施: implementation. The Japanese verbal noun '実施 (じっし)' means 'implementation' or 'carrying out'. It refers to the act of putting a plan, policy, or system into effect. This word is commonly used in formal or professional contexts, such as business, government, or education. For example: The new policy will be implemented next month「新しい政策は来月実施されます」(あたらしいせいさくはらいげつじっしされます). The company conducted a survey「その会社は調査を実施した」(そのかいしゃはちょうさをじっしした). Note that '実施' is often used with verbs like する (to do) or される (to be done) to indicate the action of implementation.
Radical
方
Stroke Count
9JLPT
N1Grade
8Frequency
1496
Handwriting
kanji
浄Meaning
Clean
Reading
kiyo
onyomiじょうjou
せいsei
Parts
氵Water (水)争Dispute
Example Word
浄土: paradise. The Japanese noun '浄土 (じょうど)' refers to 'paradise' or 'pure land', particularly in the context of Buddhism. It signifies a realm of purity and bliss, often associated with the afterlife or a spiritual destination free from suffering. This term is deeply rooted in Buddhist teachings and is frequently used in religious or philosophical discussions. For example: He wishes to be reborn in the Pure Land「彼は浄土に生まれ変わりたいと願っている」(かれはじょうどにうまれかわりたいとねがっている). The Pure Land is a place of eternal peace「浄土は永遠の平和の場所です」(じょうどはえいえんのへいわのばしょです).
Radical
水
Stroke Count
9JLPT
N1Grade
9Frequency
1502
Handwriting
kanji
盾Meaning
Shield
Reading
tate
onyomiじゅんjun
Parts
十Ten 目Eye ⺁
Example Word
矛盾: contradiction. The Japanese verbal noun '矛盾 (むじゅん)' means 'contradiction'. It refers to a situation where two or more statements, ideas, or actions are mutually incompatible or inconsistent. This term is often used in logical, philosophical, or everyday contexts to describe conflicting elements. For example: there is a contradiction in his story「彼の話には矛盾がある」(かれのはなしにはむじゅんがある). The policy is full of contradictions「その政策は矛盾だらけだ」(そのせいさくはむじゅんだらけだ). The word originates from an ancient Chinese fable about a spear that could pierce any shield and a shield that could block any spear, highlighting the inherent contradiction.
Radical
目
Stroke Count
9JLPT
N1Grade
7Frequency
1510
Handwriting
kanji
盆Meaning
Tray, Basin
Reading
bon
Parts
分Minute, Part 皿Plate
Example Word
盆: festival or tray. The Japanese noun '盆 (ぼん)' has two distinct meanings. The first meaning refers to a 'tray', typically a flat, shallow container used for carrying or serving items. For example: Please bring the tray「盆を持ってきてください」(ぼんをもってきてください). The second meaning refers to the 'Obon Festival', a traditional Buddhist event held in mid-August to honor the spirits of deceased ancestors. For example: During Obon, we visit our family grave「盆には家族のお墓参りをします」(ぼんにはかぞくのおはかまいりをします). These two meanings are unrelated, with the first being a physical object and the second being a cultural event.
Radical
皿
Stroke Count
9JLPT
N1Grade
7Frequency
1540
Handwriting
kanji
促Meaning
Urge, Press
Reading
unaga
onyomiそくsoku
Parts
亻Person (人)足Foot, Sufficient
Example Word
催促: demand or urging. The Japanese verbal noun '催促 (さいそく)' refers to the act of urging or pressing someone to do something, often in the context of requesting payment, action, or a response. It can also imply a demand or insistence. For example: I received a demand for payment「支払いの催促を受けました」(しはらいのさいそくをうけました). He urged me to reply quickly「彼は早く返事をするように催促した」(かれははやくへんじをするようにさいそくした). This term is commonly used in formal or business settings, where timely responses or actions are required.
Radical
人
Stroke Count
9JLPT
N1Grade
8Frequency
1557
Handwriting
kanji
峠Meaning
Mountain peak, Mountain pass
Reading
touge
Parts
山Mountain 上Up 下Down
Example Word
峠: mountain pass. The Japanese noun '峠 (とうげ)' refers to a 'mountain pass'. It is used to describe the highest point or the most challenging part of a mountain road, often marking the boundary between two regions. This word can also metaphorically represent a critical or decisive point in a situation. For example: We crossed the mountain pass「私たちは峠を越えた」(わたしたちはとうげをこえた). The project has reached its peak「プロジェクトは峠を越えた」(プロジェクトはとうげをこえた).
Radical
山
Stroke Count
9JLPT
N1Grade
7Frequency
1577
Handwriting
kanji
牲Meaning
Sacrifice, Offering
Reading
sei
Parts
牛Cow 生Life
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
9JLPT
N1Grade
8Frequency
1582
Handwriting
kanji
耐Meaning
Proof, Withstand
Reading
ta
onyomiたいtai
Parts
而 寸Measurement
Example Word
耐える: endure. The Japanese verb '耐える (たえる)' means 'to endure' or 'to withstand'. It is used to describe the ability to tolerate or bear something difficult, such as pain, hardship, or stress. This verb can also imply resilience or patience in the face of challenges. For example: He endured the pain「彼は痛みに耐えた」(かれはいたみにたえた). I can't endure this heat「この暑さに耐えられない」(このあつさにたえられない). Note that '耐える' is often used in contexts involving physical or emotional strain, and it can be paired with particles like 'に' to indicate what is being endured.
Radical
而
Stroke Count
9JLPT
N1Grade
7Frequency
1583
Handwriting
kanji
怠Meaning
Lazy, Neglect
Reading
nama
おこたokota
onyomiたいtai
Parts
心Heart 台Pedestal, Machine
Example Word
怠ける: neglect or laze. The Japanese verb '怠ける (なまける)' has two distinct meanings. The first meaning is 'to laze' or 'to be idle', referring to avoiding work or effort. For example: He lazed around all day「彼は一日中怠けていた」(かれはいちにちじゅうなまけていた). The second meaning is 'to neglect', implying a failure to fulfill responsibilities or duties. For example: She neglected her studies「彼女は勉強を怠けた」(かのじょはべんきょうをなまけた). The verb can carry a negative connotation, suggesting laziness or irresponsibility depending on the context.
Radical
心
Stroke Count
9JLPT
N1Grade
8Frequency
1596
Handwriting
kanji
冒Meaning
Risk
Reading
oka
onyomiぼうbou
Parts
日Day, Sun 目Eye
Example Word
冒頭: beginning. The Japanese noun '冒頭 (ぼうとう)' refers to the 'beginning' or 'start' of something, such as a speech, story, or event. It is often used in formal or literary contexts to describe the opening part of a narrative or presentation. For example: at the beginning of the story「冒頭の部分」(ぼうとうのぶぶん). The speaker started with a joke at the beginning「スピーカーは冒頭でジョークを言った」(スピーカーはぼうとうでジョークをいった). This word emphasizes the initial part of something, setting the stage for what follows.
Radical
冂
Stroke Count
9JLPT
N1Grade
7Frequency
1610
Handwriting
kanji
砕Meaning
Smash
Reading
kuda
onyomiさいsai
Parts
石Stone 卆
Example Word
砕く: break or crush. The Japanese verb '砕く (くだく)' primarily means 'to crush' or 'to break'. It is used to describe the action of physically breaking something into smaller pieces, such as rocks, ice, or other hard materials. It can also be used metaphorically to describe breaking down abstract concepts, such as breaking down a problem or someone's spirit. For example: He crushed the ice with a hammer「彼はハンマーで氷を砕いた」(かれはハンマーでこおりをくだいた). The news broke her heart「その知らせは彼女の心を砕いた」(そのしらせはかのじょのこころをくだいた). Note that '砕く' often implies a deliberate or forceful action, and it is commonly used in both literal and figurative contexts.
Radical
石
Stroke Count
9JLPT
N1Grade
9Frequency
1680
Handwriting