言Japanese VocabularyOrganized by Composition

word

Meaning

Heart, Mind

Reading

Kanji

心Heart

Explanation

The Japanese noun '心 (こころ)' can mean both 'heart' and 'mind', depending on the context. It refers to the emotional or mental state of a person, encompassing feelings, thoughts, and intentions. For example: Her heart is kind「彼女の心は優しい」(かのじょのこころはやさしい). I want to understand his mind「彼の心を理解したい」(かれのこころをりかいしたい). The word is often used in expressions related to emotions, such as '心が痛む (こころがいたむ)' (to feel heartache) or '心を込める (こころをこめる)' (to put one's heart into something). It can also refer to the core or essence of something, as in '心の声 (こころのこえ)' (inner voice).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

171

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Era

Reading

Kanji

時Time, Hour 代Substitute, Era

Explanation

The Japanese noun '時代 (じだい)' refers to a period of time, often characterized by particular events, trends, or cultural aspects. It can be used to describe historical periods, such as the Edo era, or more abstract concepts like the 'digital age'. For example: the Edo era was a peaceful time「江戸時代は平和な時代だった」(えどじだいはへいわなじだいだった). We live in the digital age「私たちはデジタル時代に生きている」(わたしたちはでじたるじだいにいきている). The word can also be used to describe someone's personal 'era' or phase in life, such as 'my student days'「私の学生時代」(わたしのがくせいじだい).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

173

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

She, Girlfriend

Reading

Kanji

彼Third person pronoun, He 女Woman

Explanation

The Japanese pronoun '彼女 (かのじょ)' has two primary meanings. First, it is used to mean 'she', referring to a female person. For example: She is my friend「彼女は私の友達です」(かのじょはわたしのともだちです). Second, it can also mean 'girlfriend', referring to a romantic partner. For example: She is my girlfriend「彼女は私の彼女です」(かのじょはわたしのかのじょです). The context usually makes it clear which meaning is intended. When used to mean 'girlfriend', it is often clear from the situation or additional context in the conversation.

Part Of Speech

pronoun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

174

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

All

Reading

Kanji

全Whole, All 部Section, Department

Explanation

The Japanese adverb '全部 (ぜんぶ)' means 'all' or 'entirely'. It is used to refer to the whole quantity or extent of something, leaving nothing out. This word is commonly used in everyday conversation and can be applied to objects, actions, or abstract concepts. For example: I ate all the cake「ケーキを全部食べた」(ケーキをぜんぶたべた). All the students came「学生は全部来た」(がくせいはぜんぶきた). It can also be used in negative sentences, such as: I didn't understand all of it「全部は分からなかった」(ぜんぶはわからなかった). Note that '全部' is often used with verbs to emphasize completeness.

Part Of Speech

adverb

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

175

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

World

Reading

Kanji

世World, Generation 界World

Explanation

The Japanese noun '世界 (せかい)' means 'world'. It refers to the entire planet, the global community, or a specific realm or domain. This word is commonly used in contexts discussing global issues, geography, or abstract concepts like 'world of dreams'. For example: The world is vast「世界は広い」(せかいはひろい). I want to travel the world「世界を旅したい」(せかいをたびしたい). It can also be used metaphorically, as in 'the world of art'「芸術の世界」(げいじゅつのせかい).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

176

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Ninety

Reading

Kanji

十Ten 九Nine

Explanation

The Japanese noun '九十 (きゅうじゅう)' means 'ninety'. It is a number used to represent the quantity 90. This word is commonly used in contexts involving counting, age, or numerical values. For example: I am ninety years old「私は九十歳です」(わたしはきゅうじゅうさいです). The temperature is ninety degrees「温度は九十度です」(おんどはきゅうじゅうどです). Note that '九十' is often used in formal or written contexts, while '90' (in numerals) is more common in casual or modern settings.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

178

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Who

Reading

Kanji

誰Who

Explanation

The Japanese pronoun '誰 (だれ)' means 'who'. It is used to ask about the identity of a person or people. This pronoun is commonly used in questions to inquire about someone's name, role, or identity. For example: Who is that person?「あの人は誰ですか？」(あのひとはだれですか？). Who ate the cake?「誰がケーキを食べたの？」(だれがケーキをたべたの？). It can also be used in statements when the identity is unknown or unspecified, such as 'I don't know who did it'「誰がやったのかわからない」(だれがやったのかわからない). Note that '誰' is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

Part Of Speech

pronoun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

179

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

When

Reading

Kanji

時Time, Hour 何What

Explanation

The Japanese pronoun '何時 (いつ)' means 'when'. It is used to ask about or refer to a specific time or occasion. This word is commonly used in questions to inquire about the timing of events. For example: When will you come?「いつ来ますか？」(いつきますか？). When is your birthday?「誕生日はいつですか？」(たんじょうびはいつですか？). It can also be used in statements to refer to an unspecified time, as in 'I don't know when it will happen'「いつ起こるか分からない」(いつおこるかわからない).

Part Of Speech

pronoun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

180

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Where

Reading

Kanji

処Deal with 何What

Explanation

The Japanese pronoun '何処 (どこ)' means 'where'. It is used to ask about the location of something or someone. This pronoun is commonly used in questions to inquire about places or directions. For example: Where is the station?「駅は何処ですか？」(えきはどこですか？). Where did you go?「何処に行きましたか？」(どこにいきましたか？). It can also be used in statements to indicate an unknown or unspecified location, such as 'I don't know where it is'「何処にあるか分からない」(どこにあるかわからない). The word '何処' is often written in hiragana as 'どこ' in modern Japanese, but the kanji form is still used in formal or literary contexts.

Part Of Speech

pronoun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

181

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Woman

Reading

Kanji

女Woman

Explanation

The Japanese noun '女 (おんな)' means 'woman'. It refers to an adult human female. This term is commonly used in everyday conversation and can be neutral or slightly informal depending on the context. For example: that woman is my teacher「あの女は私の先生です」(あのおんなはわたしのせんせいです). The woman over there is waiting「あそこの女の人が待っています」(あそこのおんなのひとがまっています). Note that '女' can sometimes carry a slightly informal or direct tone, so in more polite or formal contexts, alternatives like '女性 (じょせい)' might be preferred.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

182

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Company

Reading

Kanji

社Company 会Meet

Explanation

The Japanese noun '会社 (かいしゃ)' means 'company' or 'corporation'. It refers to a business organization or enterprise. This word is commonly used in professional and everyday contexts to describe workplaces or businesses. For example: I work at a company「私は会社で働いています」(わたしはかいしゃではたらいています). That company is famous「その会社は有名です」(そのかいしゃはゆうめいです). The word can also be used in compound terms like '会社員 (かいしゃいん)' (company employee) or '会社案内 (かいしゃあんない)' (company introduction).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

183

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Voice

Reading

Kanji

声Voice

Explanation

The Japanese noun '声 (こえ)' means 'voice'. It refers to the sound produced by a person or animal when speaking, singing, or making noise. This word is commonly used in various contexts, such as describing someone's voice, expressing emotions through voice, or referring to vocal sounds in general. For example: Her voice is beautiful「彼女の声は美しい」(かのじょのこえはうつくしい). I heard a loud voice「大きな声が聞こえた」(おおきなこえがきこえた). The word can also be used metaphorically to represent opinions or support, as in 'the voice of the people'「人々の声」(ひとびとのこえ).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

184

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Work

Reading

Kanji

事Thing 仕Serve

Explanation

The Japanese noun '仕事 (しごと)' means 'work'. It refers to one's job, occupation, or tasks performed as part of employment. It can also refer to the act of working itself. This word is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts. For example: I have a lot of work today「今日は仕事が多い」(きょうはしごとがおおい). She loves her work「彼女は仕事が大好きです」(かのじょはしごとがだいすきです). The word can also be used in phrases like '仕事をする (しごとをする)' meaning 'to do work' or '仕事を探す (しごとをさがす)' meaning 'to look for a job'.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

185

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Companion

Reading

Kanji

共Together

Explanation

The Japanese noun '共 (とも)' primarily means 'companion' or 'someone who accompanies another'. It is often used to refer to a person who shares an experience or journey with someone else. For example: He is my companion「彼は私の共だ」(かれはわたしのともだ). We are companions in this journey「私たちはこの旅の共だ」(わたしたちはこのたびのともだ). Additionally, '共' can sometimes imply a sense of equality or shared status, as in '共に戦う (ともにたたかう) (to fight together)'. It is important to note that '共' is often used in a more formal or literary context, and in everyday conversation, words like '友達 (ともだち)' might be more commonly used to refer to friends or companions.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

186

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Years old

Reading

Kanji

歳Year, Years old

Explanation

The Japanese suffix '歳 (さい)' is used to indicate age, specifically meaning 'years old'. It is attached to numbers to express someone's age. For example: I am 20 years old「私は20歳です」(わたしはにじゅっさいです). He is 5 years old「彼は5歳です」(かれはごさいです). This suffix is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts when discussing age. It is important to note that the pronunciation of '歳' can change depending on the number it follows, such as 'いっさい' for 1 year old, 'はたち' for 20 years old, and 'さい' for most other numbers.

Part Of Speech

suffix

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

187

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Alone, One person

Reading

Kanji

人Person 一One

Explanation

The Japanese noun '一人 (ひとり)' has two distinct meanings. The first meaning is 'alone', referring to a state of being by oneself without others. The second meaning is 'one person', referring to a single individual. This word is commonly used in both literal and figurative contexts. For example: I live alone「私は一人で暮らしています」(わたしはひとりでくらしています). Only one person came to the meeting「会議には一人しか来なかった」(かいぎにはひとりしかこなかった). The word can also be used in phrases like '一人で (ひとりで)' meaning 'by oneself' or 'on one's own'.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

189

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Everyone

Reading

Kanji

皆All

Explanation

The Japanese noun '皆 (みな)' means 'everyone' or 'all'. It is used to refer to a group of people collectively, emphasizing inclusivity. This word is often used in both formal and informal contexts. For example: Everyone is here「皆がここにいます」(みながここにいます). Let's all do our best「皆で頑張りましょう」(みなでがんばりましょう). It can also be used in phrases like '皆さん (みなさん)', which is a polite way to address a group of people, similar to 'ladies and gentlemen' or 'everyone' in English.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

190

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Under

Reading

Kanji

下Down

Explanation

The Japanese noun '下 (した)' means 'under' or 'below'. It refers to a position or location that is beneath something else. This word is commonly used to describe physical placement, such as objects or people being under something. For example: the cat is under the table「猫はテーブルの下にいる」(ねこはテーブルのしたにいる). The book is under the chair「本は椅子の下にある」(ほんはいすのしたにある). It can also be used metaphorically to describe hierarchical relationships, such as being under someone's authority or supervision. For example: he is under my supervision「彼は私の下で働いている」(かれはわたしのしたではたらいている).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

192

Composition

kanji

Radical Form

丅

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Number, Amount

Reading

Kanji

数Number

Explanation

The Japanese noun '数 (すう)' primarily means 'number' or 'amount'. It refers to a numerical value or quantity of something. This word is often used in contexts involving counting, mathematics, or general quantities. For example: the number of students is increasing「学生の数が増えている」(がくせいのかずがふえている). The amount of work is too much「仕事の数が多すぎる」(しごとのかずがおおすぎる). Note that '数' can also imply a sense of 'several' or 'a few' when used in phrases like '数日 (すうじつ)' meaning 'several days'.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

194

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Sixty

Reading

Kanji

十Ten 六Six

Explanation

The Japanese noun '六十 (ろくじゅう)' means 'sixty'. It is a number used to represent the quantity or age of sixty. This word is commonly used in contexts involving counting, age, or numerical references. For example: He is sixty years old「彼は六十歳です」(かれはろくじゅうさいです). The price is sixty yen「値段は六十円です」(ねだんはろくじゅうえんです). Note that '六十' is often combined with counters or other words to specify context, such as '六十歳 (ろくじゅうさい)' for 'sixty years old'.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

195

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

More than, No more

Reading

Kanji

以By means of 上Up

Explanation

The Japanese noun '以上 (いじょう)'can mean 'more than' or 'no more', depending on the context.It is often used to indicate a threshold or limit, such as a minimum requirement or a maximum cap. For example: You need to be 18 years old or more「18歳以上が必要です」(18さいいじょうがひつようです). No more than 5 people can enter「5人以上は入れません」(5にんいじょうははいれません).It can also be used to conclude a statement, meaning 'thats all' or 'no more', as in the phrase '以上です (いじょうです)', which signals 'that's all' or a formal conclusion.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

197

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Meeting

Reading

Kanji

会Meet

Explanation

The Japanese noun '会 (かい)' primarily means 'meeting' or 'gathering'. It refers to an organized event where people come together for a specific purpose, such as a business meeting, social gathering, or club meeting. For example: I attended a meeting「会に出席した」(かいにしゅっせきした). The meeting starts at 3 PM「会は3時に始まります」(かいはさんじにはじまります). Additionally, '会' can also refer to an association or society, such as a cultural or professional group. For example: He joined the photography club「彼は写真の会に入った」(かれはしゃしんのかいにはいった).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

198

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Two people

Reading

Kanji

二Two 人Person

Explanation

The Japanese noun '二人 (ふたり)' specifically refers to 'two people'. It is commonly used to indicate a pair or duo, often in contexts involving relationships, partnerships, or simply two individuals together. For example: The two went to the park「二人は公園に行った」(ふたりはこうえんにいった). We are a couple「私たちは二人です」(わたしたちはふたりです). Note that '二人' is distinct from '二つ (ふたつ)', which refers to two objects or items, not people.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

199

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Eighty

Reading

Kanji

八Eight 十Ten

Explanation

The Japanese noun '八十 (はちじゅう)' means 'eighty'. It is a number used to represent the quantity or age of eighty. This word is commonly used in contexts involving counting, age, or numerical references. For example: my grandfather is eighty years old「私のおじいさんは八十歳です」(わたしのおじいさんははちじゅうさいです). There are eighty students in the school「学校には八十人の生徒がいます」(がっこうにははちじゅうにんのせいとがいます). Note that '八十' is often combined with counters or other words to specify context, such as '八十歳 (はちじゅうさい)' for 'eighty years old'.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

200

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Time, Period

Reading

Kanji

頃Approximate

Explanation

The Japanese noun '頃 (ころ)' refers to a specific time or period, often implying a general or approximate time frame rather than an exact moment. It is commonly used to describe a period in the past, present, or future, and can be associated with seasons, events, or life stages. For example: around this time last year「去年のこの頃」(きょねんのこのころ). When I was a child「子供の頃」(こどものころ). It can also be used to indicate a suitable or appropriate time for something, as in 'it's about time to leave'「そろそろ帰る頃だ」(そろそろかえるころだ). The word carries a nuance of vagueness, making it useful for expressing general time frames without precision.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

202

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Woman

Reading

Kanji

女Woman 性Gender, Sex

Explanation

The Japanese noun '女性 (じょせい)' means 'woman'. It refers to an adult human female and is commonly used in formal and everyday contexts. This term is neutral and can be used in various settings, such as describing someone's gender, discussing women in society, or referring to a group of women. For example: She is a strong woman「彼女は強い女性です」(かのじょはつよいじょせいです). Many women work in this company「この会社には多くの女性が働いています」(このかいしゃにはおおくのじょせいがはたらいています). The word is distinct from '女の人 (おんなのひと)', which is more casual and conversational.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

203

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Ahead, Tip

Reading

Kanji

先Before, Previous

Explanation

The Japanese noun '先 (さき)' has two primary meanings. The first is 'ahead', referring to the space or time in front of something or someone. For example: Let's go ahead「先に行こう」(さきにいこう). The second meaning is 'tip', referring to the end or extremity of an object. For example: The tip of the pencil is broken「鉛筆の先が折れている」(えんぴつのさきがおれている). The word can also be used metaphorically to refer to the future or what lies ahead in time. It's important to note that '先' is often used in compound words to specify direction or position, such as '先月 (せんげつ)' (last month) or '先端 (せんたん)' (the forefront).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

206

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Law, Method

Reading

Kanji

法Law, Method

Explanation

The Japanese noun '法 (ほう)' has two primary meanings. The first is 'law', referring to legal rules or regulations established by a governing body. For example: This is against the law「これは法に反する」(これはほうにはんする). The second meaning is 'method', referring to a way or technique of doing something. For example: This is a new method「これは新しい法だ」(これはあたらしいほうだ). The context in which '法' is used will determine whether it refers to 'law' or 'method'. It's important to note that while '法' can stand alone as a noun, it is often combined with other kanji to form compound words that specify the type of law or method, such as '法律 (ほうりつ)' for 'legislation' or '方法 (ほうほう)' for 'way/method'.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

207

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Not

Reading

Kanji

不Not

Explanation

The Japanese prefix '不 (ふ)' is used to negate or express the absence of a quality, state, or action. It is commonly attached to nouns or adjectives to form words that mean the opposite of the original term. For example: '不安 (ふあん)' means 'unease' or 'anxiety' (literally 'not peace'), and '不満 (ふまん)' means 'dissatisfaction' (literally 'not satisfaction'). This prefix is versatile and widely used in both formal and informal contexts. Example sentences: He is not satisfied「彼は不満です」(かれはふまんです). This situation is uncertain「この状況は不確かです」(このじょうきょうはふたしかです).

Part Of Speech

prefix

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

209

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

I

Reading

Kanji

俺Me, I

Explanation

The Japanese pronoun '俺 (おれ)' is a casual and masculine way to say 'I'. It is commonly used by men in informal settings, such as among friends or family, and can convey a sense of toughness or assertiveness. However, it is considered rude or inappropriate in formal situations or when speaking to someone of higher status. For example: I will do it「俺がやる」(おれがやる). I am strong「俺は強い」(おれはつよい). Note that women typically do not use this pronoun, as it is strongly associated with male speech.

Part Of Speech

pronoun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

210

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Possible

Reading

Kanji

能Ability 可Possible

Explanation

The Japanese adjectival noun '可能 (かのう)' means 'possible'. It is used to describe something that can be done or achieved, or something that has the potential to happen. This word is often used in formal or technical contexts. For example: it is possible to finish this project by tomorrow「このプロジェクトは明日までに終わらせることは可能です」(このプロジェクトはあしたまでにおわらせることはかのうです). Is it possible to change the schedule?「スケジュールを変更することは可能ですか？」(スケジュールをへんこうすることはかのうですか？). Note that '可能' is often used in combination with verbs to express the possibility of doing something, as in '可能にする (かのうにする)' (to make possible).

Part Of Speech

adjectival noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

213

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Partner

Reading

Kanji

相Mutual 手Hand

Explanation

The Japanese noun '相手 (あいて)' primarily means 'partner' or 'opponent'. It refers to someone you interact with, whether in a cooperative or competitive context. For example: my tennis partner「私のテニスの相手」(わたしのテニスのあいて). He is a strong opponent「彼は強い相手だ」(かれはつよいあいてだ). The word can also imply a sense of mutual engagement, such as in a conversation or relationship. For instance: she is a good listener「彼女は良い聞き手の相手だ」(かのじょはよいききてのあいてだ). Note that the context often determines whether '相手' refers to a partner, opponent, or someone you are interacting with.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

214

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Truth

Reading

Kanji

本Book, Origin 当Hit, Appropriate

Explanation

The Japanese noun '本当 (ほんとう)' means 'truth' or 'reality'. It is often used to express something that is genuine, real, or true. It can also be used in questions or exclamations to confirm the validity of a statement. For example: Is that true?「それは本当ですか？」(それはほんとうですか？). This is the truth「これは本当です」(これはほんとうです). It can also be used in phrases like '本当に (ほんとうに)' to mean 'really' or 'truly', emphasizing sincerity or seriousness.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

216

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

School

Reading

Kanji

校School 学Learn

Explanation

The Japanese noun '学校 (がっこう)' means 'school'. It refers to an institution where students receive education, typically ranging from elementary to high school levels. The word is commonly used in everyday conversations and formal contexts. For example: I go to school「私は学校に行きます」(わたしはがっこうにいきます). The school is big「その学校は大きい」(そのがっこうはおおきい). It can also be used in compound words, such as '小学校 (しょうがっこう)' (elementary school) or '学校生活 (がっこうせいかつ)' (school life).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

218

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Point, Mark

Reading

Kanji

点Point

Explanation

The Japanese noun '点 (てん)' primarily means 'point' or 'mark'. It can refer to a dot or spot, as in a punctuation mark or a point on a graph. It is also used to denote a score or grade, such as in tests or games. Additionally, it can signify a particular aspect or detail of a broader topic. For example: The teacher gave me full points「先生は私に満点をくれた」(せんせいはわたしにまんてんをくれた). There is a red dot on the paper「紙に赤い点がある」(かみにあかいてんがある). This point is important「この点は重要だ」(このてんはじゅうようだ).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

219

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Student

Reading

Kanji

大Big 生Life 学Learn

Explanation

The Japanese noun '大学生 (だいがくせい)' refers specifically to a 'university student' or 'college student'. It is a compound word formed from '大学 (だいがく)', meaning 'university', and '生 (せい)', meaning 'student' or 'life'. This term is used to describe someone who is currently enrolled in and attending a university. For example: She is a university student「彼女は大学生です」(かのじょはだいがくせいです). I want to become a university student「私は大学生になりたい」(わたしはだいがくせいになりたい). The word is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to refer to individuals pursuing higher education.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

223

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Mother

Reading

Kanji

母Mother

Explanation

The Japanese noun '母 (はは)' means 'mother'. It is a formal and respectful term used to refer to one's own mother. It is commonly used in polite or formal contexts, such as when speaking to others about one's mother. For example: My mother is kind「私の母は優しい」(わたしのはははやさしい). I will call my mother「母に電話します」(ははにでんわします). Note that '母 (はは)' is more formal than 'お母さん (おかあさん)', which is used in casual or familial settings. The term carries a sense of respect and is often used in written language or formal speech.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

224

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

High school student

Reading

Kanji

高High, Expensive 生Life 校School

Explanation

The Japanese noun '高校生 (こうこうせい)' refers to a 'high school student'. This term is used to describe someone who is currently attending high school, typically between the ages of 15 and 18. It is a compound of '高校 (こうこう)', meaning 'high school', and '生 (せい)', meaning 'student'. For example: She is a high school student「彼女は高校生です」(かのじょはこうこうせいです). Many high school students work part-time「多くの高校生はアルバイトをしています」(おおくのこうこうせいはアルバイトをしています). The term is widely used in everyday conversation and is a common way to refer to individuals in this age group.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

226

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Zero

Reading

Kanji

零Zero

Explanation

The Japanese noun '零 (れい)' means 'zero'. It is used to denote the number zero, often in contexts such as mathematics, scores, or temperatures. For example: The temperature is zero degrees「温度は零度です」(おんどはれいどです). The score is zero「スコアは零です」(スコアはれいです). This word can also be used metaphorically to indicate nothingness or the absence of something, as in 'He has zero experience「彼は経験が零です」(かれはけいけんがれいです)'. Note that '零' is more formal than the alternative 'ゼロ', which is also commonly used in Japanese.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

227

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Study

Reading

Kanji

勉Exertion 強Strong

Explanation

The Japanese verbal noun '勉強 (べんきょう)' primarily means 'study'. It refers to the act of learning or acquiring knowledge, often through formal education or self-directed efforts. This word is commonly used in contexts related to education, such as studying for exams or learning new skills. For example: I study Japanese every day「毎日日本語を勉強します」(まいにちにほんごをべんきょうします). She is studying hard for her exams「彼女は試験のために一生懸命勉強しています」(かのじょはしけんのためにいっしょうけんめいべんきょうしています). Additionally, '勉強' can sometimes imply a sense of effort or hard work, not just academic study. It can also be used in a broader sense to mean 'learning through experience' or 'gaining knowledge through practice'.

Part Of Speech

verbal noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

229

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Seventy

Reading

Kanji

七Seven 十Ten

Explanation

The Japanese noun '七十 (ななじゅう)' means 'seventy'. It is a number used to denote the quantity or age of seventy. This word is commonly used in contexts involving counting, age, or numerical references. For example: I am seventy years old「私は七十歳です」(わたしはななじゅうさいです). There are seventy books on the shelf「本棚に七十冊の本があります」(ほんだなにななじゅうさつのほんがあります).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

230

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Shape

Reading

Kanji

形Shape

Explanation

The Japanese noun '形 (かたち)' primarily means 'shape'. It refers to the physical form or outline of an object. This word is often used to describe the appearance or structure of something, whether it's a tangible object or an abstract concept. For example: The shape of the mountain is beautiful「山の形が美しい」(やまのかたちがうつくしい). I want to preserve the shape of this tradition「この伝統の形を守りたい」(このでんとうのかたちをまもりたい). Additionally, '形' can sometimes imply the 'form' or 'state' of something, such as in the phrase '形になる' (かたちになる), which means 'to take shape' or 'to materialize'.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

233

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Question

Reading

Kanji

質Quality 問Question, Problem

Explanation

The Japanese verbal noun '質問 (しつもん)' means 'question'. It is used to refer to an inquiry or a query that someone asks to seek information or clarification. This word is commonly used in both formal and informal settings, such as in classrooms, meetings, or casual conversations. For example: I have a question「質問があります」(しつもんがあります). Please answer my question「私の質問に答えてください」(わたしのしつもんにこたえてください). The word can also be used as a verb when combined with the auxiliary verb 'する', as in '質問する (しつもんする)', which means 'to ask a question'.

Part Of Speech

verbal noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

235

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Method

Reading

Kanji

法Law, Method 方Direction

Explanation

The Japanese noun '方法 (ほうほう)' means 'method' or 'way'. It refers to a systematic procedure or approach to accomplish something. This word is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to describe techniques, strategies, or processes. For example: a new method「新しい方法」(あたらしいほうほう). What is the best way to solve this problem?「この問題を解決するための最良の方法は何ですか？」(このもんだいをかいけつするためのさいりょうのほうほうはなんですか？). It can also be used in phrases like 'study method' (勉強方法, べんきょうほうほう) or 'cooking method' (調理方法, ちょうりほうほう).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

236

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Company

Reading

Kanji

業Business 企Plan, Project

Explanation

The Japanese noun '企業 (きぎょう)' refers to a 'company' or 'enterprise'. It is commonly used to describe a business organization engaged in commercial, industrial, or professional activities. This term is often used in formal contexts, such as business discussions, news, or academic writing. For example: That company is growing rapidly「あの企業は急速に成長している」(あのきぎょうはきゅうそくにせいちょうしている). Many companies are adopting new technologies「多くの企業が新しい技術を採用している」(おおくのきぎょうがあたらしいぎじゅつをさいようしている). The word can also be used in compound terms like '大企業 (だいきぎょう)' (large corporation) or '中小企業 (ちゅうしょうきぎょう)' (small and medium-sized enterprises).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

240

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Information

Reading

Kanji

報Report, News 情Feeling, Emotion

Explanation

The Japanese noun '情報 (じょうほう)' means 'information'. It refers to knowledge or data that is communicated, received, or understood. This word is commonly used in various contexts, such as technology, news, and everyday conversations. For example: I need more information「もっと情報が必要です」(もっとじょうほうがひつようです). This information is important「この情報は重要です」(このじょうほうはじゅうようです). The word can also be used in compound nouns, such as '情報技術 (じょうほうぎじゅつ)' (information technology) or '情報源 (じょうほうげん)' (source of information).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

242

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Only

Reading

Kanji

唯Only, Solely

Explanation

The Japanese adverb '唯 (ただ)' means 'only' or 'merely'. It is used to emphasize that something is limited to a specific condition, state, or action, often implying simplicity or lack of complexity. For example: I only want to help「ただ助けたいだけです」(ただたすけたいだけです). It's just a rumor「ただの噂です」(ただのうわさです). This word can also carry a nuance of humility or modesty, as in 'I am just a student'「私はただの学生です」(わたしはただのがくせいです). Note that '唯' is often used in formal or literary contexts, while 'だけ' is more common in casual speech.

Part Of Speech

adverb

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

243

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Head

Reading

Kanji

頭Head

Explanation

The Japanese noun '頭 (あたま)' primarily means 'head'. It refers to the physical head of a person or animal, but it can also be used metaphorically to refer to intelligence or leadership. For example: my head hurts「頭が痛い」(あたまがいたい). He is the head of the company「彼は会社の頭だ」(かれはかいしゃのあたまだ). Additionally, '頭' can be used in idiomatic expressions, such as '頭がいい (あたまがいい)' meaning 'smart' or 'intelligent'.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

247

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Teacher

Reading

Kanji

生Life 先Before, Previous

Explanation

The Japanese noun '先生 (せんせい)' primarily means 'teacher'. It is a respectful term used to address or refer to educators, instructors, or mentors, such as school teachers, professors, or even professionals like doctors and lawyers. The term conveys respect and is commonly used in formal or polite contexts. For example: The teacher is kind「先生は優しい」(せんせいはやさしい). I asked the teacher a question「先生に質問をしました」(せんせいしつもんをしました). Note that '先生' is also used as a title, similar to 'Mr.', 'Ms.', or 'Dr.' in English, and is often appended to the person's name, e.g., '田中先生 (たなかせんせい)' (Teacher Tanaka).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

252

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Name

Reading

Kanji

名Name

Explanation

The Japanese noun '名 (な)' means 'name'. It refers to the word or words by which a person, place, or thing is known. This term is often used in formal contexts or when referring to the concept of a name in a general sense. For example: What is your name?「あなたの名は何ですか？」(あなたのなはなんですか？). The name of this flower is beautiful「この花の名は美しい」(このはなのなはうつくしい). Note that '名 (な)' is more formal and less commonly used in everyday conversation compared to '名前 (なまえ)', which is the more casual term for 'name'.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

254

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Generation

Reading

Kanji

代Substitute, Era

Explanation

The Japanese suffix '代 (だい)' is used to indicate a generation or era. It is commonly attached to numbers or names to specify a particular generation or time period. For example: the 80s generation「80代」(はちじゅうだい). The Heisei era「平成代」(へいせいだい). This suffix can also be used to refer to a person's age group, such as '20代 (にじゅうだい)' meaning 'in one's 20s'. It is important to note that '代' can also mean 'price' or 'cost' in other contexts, but this is a separate and unrelated meaning.

Part Of Speech

suffix

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

255

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Economy

Reading

Kanji

経Manage, Elapse 済Finish, Settle

Explanation

The Japanese noun '経済 (けいざい)' means 'economy'. It refers to the system of production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services in a country or region. This word is commonly used in discussions about economic policies, market conditions, and financial systems. For example: The economy is growing「経済が成長している」(けいざいがせいちょうしている). Studying economics is important「経済学を勉強することは重要だ」(けいざいがくをべんきょうすることはじゅうようだ). The word can also appear in compound terms like '経済政策 (けいざいせいさく)' (economic policy) or '経済成長 (けいざいせいちょう)' (economic growth).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

257

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

University

Reading

Kanji

大Big 学Learn

Explanation

The Japanese noun '大学 (だいがく)' means 'university'. It refers to an institution of higher education and research, which awards academic degrees in various subjects. This term is commonly used to describe both the institution itself and the experience of attending it. For example: I go to university「私は大学に行きます」(わたしはだいがくにいきます). He graduated from Tokyo University「彼は東京大学を卒業しました」(かれはとうきょうだいがくをそつぎょうしました). The word can also be used in compound nouns, such as '大学院 (だいがくいん)' (graduate school) or '大学生 (だいがくせい)' (university student).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

258

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Father

Reading

Kanji

父Father

Explanation

The Japanese noun '父 (ちち)' means 'father'. It is a common and respectful term used to refer to one's own father. This word is typically used in formal or polite contexts, and it carries a sense of respect and affection. For example: my father is kind「私の父は優しい」(わたしのちちはやさしい). I talked to my father yesterday「昨日、父と話しました」(きのう、ちちとはなしました). It's important to note that '父 (ちち)' is used when referring to one's own father, while 'お父さん (おとうさん)' is a more casual and commonly used term, often used when addressing or referring to someone else's father.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

259

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Shop

Reading

Kanji

店Shop

Explanation

The Japanese noun '店 (みせ)' means 'shop'. It refers to a place where goods or services are sold. This word is commonly used in everyday conversation to describe various types of shops, such as a grocery store, clothing store, or restaurant. For example: I went to the shop「店に行きました」(みせにいきました). This shop sells delicious bread「この店は美味しいパンを売っています」(このみせはおいしいパンをうっています). The word '店' can also be part of compound words, such as '本屋 (ほんや) (bookstore)' or '喫茶店 (きっさてん) (coffee shop)', where it retains its meaning of a place of business.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

260

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Mouth

Reading

Kanji

口Mouth

Explanation

The Japanese noun '口 (くち)' primarily means 'mouth'. It refers to the physical opening in the face used for eating, speaking, and breathing. However, it can also be used metaphorically to describe openings or entrances, such as the mouth of a river or a bottle. For example: Please close your mouth「口を閉じてください」(くちをとじてください). The mouth of the river is wide「川の口は広い」(かわのくちはひろい). Additionally, '口' can be used in idiomatic expressions, such as '口が重い (くちがおもい)', meaning 'to be tight-lipped' or 'reluctant to speak'.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

261

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Brown

Reading

Kanji

色Color 茶Tea

Explanation

The Japanese noun '茶色 (ちゃいろ)' means 'brown'. This color term is derived from the color of tea, specifically green tea, and is used to describe objects, clothing, or anything that has a brown hue. It is a common color term in Japanese and can be used in various contexts. For example: The table is brown「テーブルは茶色です」(てーぶるはちゃいろです). I bought a brown bag「茶色のバッグを買いました」(ちゃいろのばっぐをかいました). The word '茶色' can also be used metaphorically to describe something as plain or ordinary, similar to how 'brown' might be used in English to describe something as unremarkable.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

262

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Why

Reading

Kanji

故Reason, Deceased 何What

Explanation

The Japanese adverb '何故 (なぜ)' means 'why'. It is used to ask for the reason or cause of something. This word is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts. For example: Why did you come?「何故来たの？」(なぜきたの？). Why is it so expensive?「何故そんなに高いの？」(なぜそんなにたかいの？). The word '何故' can also be written as 'なぜ' in hiragana, and it is often used interchangeably with other words that mean 'why', such as 'どうして' and 'なんで', though '何故' can sometimes carry a slightly more formal or literary tone.

Part Of Speech

adverb

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

264

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Present, Current

Reading

Kanji

在Be, Exist 現Appear, Current

Explanation

The Japanese noun '現在 (げんざい)' refers to the concept of the 'present' or 'current' time. It is often used to describe the current state or situation of something. For example: the current situation is serious「現在の状況は深刻です」(げんざいのじょうきょうはしんこくです). I am currently living in Tokyo「私は現在東京に住んでいます」(わたしはげんざいとうきょうにすんでいます). The word can also be used in a more abstract sense to refer to the present moment in time, as in 'the present moment is all we have'「現在の瞬間がすべてです」(げんざいのしゅんかんがすべてです).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

265

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Line

Reading

Kanji

線Line

Explanation

The Japanese noun '線 (せん)' primarily means 'line'. It refers to a straight or curved continuous mark or path, such as a drawn line, a railway line, or a boundary line. It can also metaphorically represent a sequence or connection, such as a line of thought. Example sentences: Draw a straight line「まっすぐな線を引いて」(まっすぐなせんをひいて). The train is on the wrong line「電車が間違った線に乗っている」(でんしゃがまちがったせんにのっている). The line between right and wrong is sometimes unclear「正しいことと間違っていることの線は時には曖昧だ」(ただしいこととまちがっていることのせんはときにはあいまいだ).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

269

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Club

Reading

Kanji

部Section, Department

Explanation

The Japanese suffix '部 (ぶ)' is commonly used to denote a club, group, or department, particularly in schools or organizations. It is attached to a noun to specify the type of club or department. For example: tennis club「テニス部」(てにすぶ). This suffix is widely used in educational settings to refer to extracurricular activities. Another example: music club「音楽部」(おんがくぶ). It can also refer to departments within a company, such as sales department「営業部」(えいぎょうぶ). The suffix is versatile and context-dependent, but it consistently refers to a group or division with a specific focus.

Part Of Speech

suffix

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

270

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

City

Reading

Kanji

市City, Market

Explanation

The Japanese noun '市 (し)' means 'city'. It refers to a large and permanent human settlement, typically with a local government. This term is often used in the names of cities, such as '東京市 (とうきょうし)' (Tokyo City) or '大阪市 (おおさかし)' (Osaka City). Example sentences: I live in a city「私は市に住んでいます」(わたしはしにすんでいます). This city is very big「この市はとても大きい」(このしはとてもおおきい). Note that '市' can also be part of compound words, such as '市場 (いちば)' (market) or '市民 (しみん)' (citizen), but in these cases, it takes on a different meaning and reading.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

271

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Library

Reading

Kanji

書Write 館Building 図Map

Explanation

The Japanese noun '図書館 (としょかん)' refers to a 'library', a place where books, magazines, and other materials are kept for reading, studying, or borrowing. It is a common word used in everyday conversation and formal contexts. For example: I went to the library「図書館に行きました」(としょかんにいきました). The library is quiet「図書館は静かです」(としょかんはしずかです). This word is often used in combination with other words to specify the type of library, such as 'public library' (公立図書館, こうりつとしょかん) or 'university library' (大学図書館, だいがくとしょかん).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

274

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

China

Reading

Kanji

中Center 国Country

Explanation

The Japanese proper noun '中国 (ちゅうごく)' refers to the country 'China'. It is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to denote the nation. For example: I went to China last year「去年中国に行きました」(きょねんちゅうごくにいきました). China has a long history「中国は長い歴史があります」(ちゅうごくはながいれきしがあります). The term is also used in compound words like '中国語 (ちゅうごくご)' meaning 'Chinese language'.

Part Of Speech

proper noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

275

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Word

Reading

Kanji

語Language, Word

Explanation

The Japanese noun '語 (ご)' refers to a 'word' or 'language'. It is often used as a suffix to denote a specific type of language or terminology, such as '日本語 (にほんご)' meaning 'Japanese language' or '専門語 (せんもんご)' meaning 'technical term'. Example sentences: I study Japanese words「私は日本語を勉強します」(わたしはにほんごをべんきょうします). This is a technical term「これは専門語です」(これはせんもんごです). The word '語' can also be used in compound words to specify a particular language or dialect, such as '英語 (えいご)' for 'English' or '方言 (ほうげん)' for 'dialect'.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

276

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Water

Reading

Kanji

水Water

Explanation

The Japanese noun '水 (みず)' means 'water'. It refers to the clear, colorless, and odorless liquid essential for life. This word is commonly used in everyday conversations and can refer to drinking water, water in nature, or water as a substance. For example: Please give me some water「水をください」(みずをください). The water in this river is clean「この川の水はきれいです」(このかわのみずはきれいです). It can also be used in compound words like '水泳 (すいえい)' (swimming) or '水族館 (すいぞくかん)' (aquarium).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

277

Composition

kanji

Radical Forms

冫, 氵, 氺

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Two thousand

Reading

Kanji

二Two 千Thousand

Explanation

The Japanese noun '二千 (にせん)' means 'two thousand'. It is a number used to denote the quantity or count of 2000. This word is commonly used in contexts involving numbers, such as counting, dates, or quantities. For example: two thousand yen「二千円」(にせんえん). The year two thousand「二千の年」(にせんのとし). It is important to note that this word is a specific numerical term and is used in the same way as other numbers in Japanese.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

283

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Times (counter for occurrences)

Reading

Kanji

回Revolve, Times (counter for occurrences)

Explanation

The Japanese suffix '回 (かい)' is used to indicate the number of times an action occurs. It is commonly attached to numbers to express frequency or repetition. For example: three times「三回」(さんかい). I have been to Japan twice「日本に二回行ったことがある」(にほんにかいあったことがある). This suffix is versatile and can be used in various contexts to denote occurrences, such as in sports, events, or daily activities. It is important to note that '回' is often used in combination with verbs to specify how many times an action has been performed.

Part Of Speech

suffix

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

286

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Result

Reading

Kanji

結Tie, Bind 果Fruit

Explanation

The Japanese noun '結果 (けっか)' means 'result'. It refers to the outcome or consequence of an action, event, or process. This word is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to describe the end product of something. For example: the result of the experiment was surprising「実験の結果は驚くべきものだった」(じっけんのけっかはおどろくべきものだった). What was the result of the meeting?「会議の結果はどうでしたか？」(かいぎのけっかはどうでしたか？). It can also be used in phrases like '良い結果 (よいけっか)' (good result) or '悪い結果 (わるいけっか)' (bad result).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

290

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Doctrine, Principle

Reading

Kanji

義Righteousness 主Master

Explanation

The Japanese noun '主義 (しゅぎ)' refers to a principle, doctrine, or ideology that forms the basis of a system of thought, belief, or behavior. It is often used in contexts related to political, social, or philosophical systems. For example: He follows the principle of non-violence「彼は非暴力の主義を守る」(かれはひぼうりょくのしゅぎをまもる). This party's doctrine is based on equality「この党の主義は平等に基づいている」(このとうのしゅぎはびょうどうにもとづいている). The word can also be used to describe personal beliefs or guiding principles, such as in '彼の主義は正直さだ' (かれのしゅぎはしょうじきさだ) (His principle is honesty).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

291

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Side

Reading

Kanji

側Side

Explanation

The Japanese noun '側 (がわ)' means 'side'. It refers to one of the surfaces or edges of an object, or a position relative to something. It can also indicate a group or faction in a broader sense. For example: the left side of the road「道路の左側」(どうろのひだりがわ). He is on my side「彼は私の側にいる」(かれはわたしのがわにいる). This word is often used to describe physical positions or metaphorical alignments, such as being on someone's side in an argument.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

292

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Ground

Reading

Kanji

地Ground

Explanation

The Japanese noun '地 (ち)' primarily means 'ground' or 'earth'. It refers to the solid surface of the earth, as opposed to the sky or water. It can also be used metaphorically to describe the foundation or basis of something. For example: the ground is wet「地が濡れている」(ちがぬれている). This land is fertile「この地は肥沃だ」(このちはひよくだ). Additionally, '地' can be used in compound words to denote specific types of land or areas, such as '地図 (ちず)' (map) or '地元 (じもと)' (hometown).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

294

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Writing

Reading

Kanji

書Write

Explanation

The Japanese suffix '書 (しょ)' means 'writing' or 'document'. It is commonly used as a suffix in compound words to indicate something related to writing, documents, or books. For example: a letter「手紙」(てがみ) becomes 'a written letter' when combined as「手紙書」(てがみしょ). Another example: a guidebook「案内書」(あんないしょ). This suffix is often attached to nouns to specify that the noun is a written or documented form of something. Example sentences: This is a guidebook for tourists「これは観光客のための案内書です」(これはかんこうきゃくのためのあんないしょです). Please submit the application form「申込書を提出してください」(もうしこみしょをていしゅつしてください).

Part Of Speech

suffix

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

295

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Today

Reading

Kanji

今Now 日Day, Sun

Explanation

The Japanese noun '今日 (きょう)' means 'today'. It is used to refer to the current day, the day on which something is happening or being discussed. It is a very common word in daily conversation and can be used in various contexts. For example: Today is sunny「今日は晴れです」(きょうははれです). I have a meeting today「今日は会議があります」(きょうはかいぎがあります). It's important to note that '今日' is often used in combination with other time-related words to specify a particular day, such as '今日の朝 (きょうのあさ)' (this morning) or '今日の夜 (きょうのよる)' (tonight).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

299

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

A bit

Reading

Kanji

寸Measurement 一One

Explanation

The Japanese adverb '一寸 (ちょっと)' means 'a bit' or 'a little'. It is commonly used to indicate a small amount, degree, or extent of something. It can also be used to soften requests or statements, making them sound more polite or less direct. For example: Can you wait a bit?「ちょっと待ってくれますか？」(ちょっとまってくれますか？). I'm a bit busy「ちょっと忙しいです」(ちょっといそがしいです). Additionally, 'ちょっと' can be used to express hesitation or difficulty in answering a question, as in 'ちょっと難しいです (ちょっとむずかしいです) (It's a bit difficult).'

Part Of Speech

adverb

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

300

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Marriage

Reading

Kanji

結Tie, Bind 婚Marriage

Explanation

The Japanese verbal noun '結婚 (けっこん)' means 'marriage'. It refers to the state of being married or the act of getting married. This word is commonly used in various contexts, such as discussing marriage plans, marital status, or ceremonies. For example: They got married last year「彼らは去年結婚しました」(かれらはきょねんけっこんしました). I want to get married next year「来年結婚したいです」(らいねんけっこんしたいです). The word can also be used in compound forms, such as '結婚式 (けっこんしき)' (wedding ceremony) or '結婚生活 (けっこんせいかつ)' (married life).

Part Of Speech

verbal noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

301

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Prefecture

Reading

Kanji

県Prefecture

Explanation

The Japanese noun '県 (けん)' refers to a 'prefecture', which is an administrative division in Japan, similar to a state or province in other countries. Japan is divided into 47 prefectures, each with its own local government. This term is commonly used in addresses, official documents, and when discussing regional differences. For example: I live in Tokyo Prefecture「私は東京都に住んでいます」(わたしはとうきょうとにすんでいます). Kyoto Prefecture is beautiful「京都県は美しい」(きょうとけんはうつくしい). Note that some prefectures, like Tokyo (東京都, とうきょうと), use '都' instead of '県' in their names.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

303

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Bicycle

Reading

Kanji

自Self 転Revolve 車Car

Explanation

The Japanese noun '自転車 (じてんしゃ)' means 'bicycle'. It refers to a two-wheeled vehicle powered by pedals, commonly used for transportation or recreation. This word is widely used in everyday conversations and is neutral in tone. Example sentences: I ride a bicycle to school「私は自転車で学校に行きます」(わたしはじてんしゃでがっこうにいきます). This bicycle is new「この自転車は新しいです」(このじてんしゃはあたらしいです). The word can also be used in compound phrases, such as '電動自転車 (でんどうじてんしゃ)' (electric bicycle).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

304

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Road, Way

Reading

Kanji

道Way

Explanation

The Japanese noun '道 (みち)' primarily means 'road' or 'path', referring to a physical route for traveling. It can also mean 'way' in a more abstract sense, such as a method, principle, or journey. For example: This road is long「この道は長い」(このみちはながい). The way to success is hard「成功への道は難しい」(せいこうへのみちはむずかしい). The word is versatile and can be used in both literal and metaphorical contexts. It is also commonly found in compound words, such as '歩道 (ほどう)' (sidewalk) or '武道 (ぶどう)' (martial arts).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

308

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Different

Reading

Kanji

別Separate

Explanation

The Japanese adjectival noun '別 (べつ)' primarily means 'different' or 'separate'. It is used to indicate that something is distinct or not the same as another thing. It can also imply a sense of division or separation. For example: That's a different matter「それは別の問題だ」(それはべつのもんだいだ). Let's consider it separately「別に考えましょう」(べつにかんがえましょう). In some contexts, '別' can also imply 'another' or 'additional', as in '別の日 (べつのひ) (another day)'. It's important to note that '別' is often used in formal or written contexts, and it can be combined with other words to form compound nouns, such as '別荘 (べっそう) (vacation home)'.

Part Of Speech

adjectival noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

310

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Illness

Reading

Kanji

気Spirit 病Illness

Explanation

The Japanese verbal noun '病気 (びょうき)' means 'illness' or 'disease'. It refers to a state of poor health or a specific medical condition. This word is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to describe physical or mental health issues. For example: He has a serious illness「彼は重い病気です」(かれはおもいびょうきです). I caught a cold and got sick「風邪をひいて病気になりました」(かぜをひいてびょうきになりました). It can also be used metaphorically to describe societal or systemic issues, such as 'the illness of society' (社会の病気, しゃかいのびょうき).

Part Of Speech

verbal noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

312

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Two hundred

Reading

Kanji

二Two 百Hundred

Explanation

The Japanese noun '二百 (にひゃく)' means 'two hundred'. This word is used to denote the number 200 in various contexts, such as counting objects, money, or age. It is a combination of '二 (に)' meaning 'two' and '百 (ひゃく)' meaning 'hundred'. For example: I have two hundred yen「私は二百円を持っています」(わたしはにひゃくえんをもっています). The store is two hundred meters away「その店は二百メートル先です」(そのみせはにひゃくメートルさきです).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

313

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Mountain

Reading

Kanji

山Mountain

Explanation

The Japanese noun '山 (やま)' means 'mountain'. It refers to a large landform that rises prominently above its surroundings, typically with steep slopes and a peak. This word is commonly used in both literal and figurative contexts. For example: I climbed the mountain「山に登った」(やまにのぼった). There is a beautiful mountain in the distance「遠くに美しい山がある」(とおくにうつくしいやまがある). In Japanese culture, mountains often hold spiritual significance and are associated with nature and tranquility. The word can also be used metaphorically to describe a large pile or a challenging task, such as 'a mountain of work' (仕事の山, しごとのやま).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

316

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Airplane

Reading

Kanji

飛Fly 行Go 機Machine, Opportunity

Explanation

The Japanese noun '飛行機 (ひこうき)' means 'airplane'. It refers to a powered flying vehicle with fixed wings and a weight greater than that of the air it displaces. This word is commonly used in everyday conversation when discussing travel, transportation, or aviation. For example: I will go to America by airplane「私は飛行機でアメリカに行きます」(わたしはひこうきでアメリカにいきます). The airplane is flying in the sky「飛行機が空を飛んでいます」(ひこうきがそらをとんでいます). It's important to note that '飛行機' specifically refers to airplanes and not other types of aircraft like helicopters or gliders.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

318

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Wind

Reading

Kanji

風Wind, Style

Explanation

The Japanese noun '風 (かぜ)' primarily means 'wind'. It refers to the natural movement of air, especially in the form of a current of air blowing from a particular direction. This word is commonly used in weather-related contexts. For example: The wind is strong today「今日は風が強い」(きょうはかぜがつよい). I can hear the sound of the wind「風の音が聞こえる」(かぜのおとがきこえる). Additionally, '風' can sometimes be used metaphorically to describe trends or influences, such as in '時代の風 (じだいのかぜ)', meaning 'the wind of the times', referring to the trends or spirit of an era.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

321

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Place

Reading

Kanji

場Place

Explanation

The Japanese noun '場 (ば)' primarily means 'place' or 'scene'. It refers to a specific location, setting, or situation where something occurs. This word is often used in contexts involving events, gatherings, or environments. For example: This is the place where we met「ここは私たちが出会った場です」(ここはわたしたちがであったばです). The atmosphere at the scene was tense「その場の雰囲気は緊張していた」(そのばのふんいきはきんちょうしていた). Additionally, '場' can also imply a 'moment' or 'occasion' in certain contexts, such as in 'その場で決める (そのばできめる)' (to decide on the spot).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

324

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

People

Reading

Kanji

人Person

Explanation

The Japanese noun '人々 (ひとびと)' means 'people'. It refers to a group of individuals or a collective of persons. This word is often used to describe people in a general sense, without specifying any particular group. For example: Many people gathered in the park「人々が公園に集まった」(ひとびとがこうえんにあつまった). People were surprised by the news「人々はそのニュースに驚いた」(ひとびとはそのニュースにおどろいた). The term can be used in both formal and informal contexts, and it carries a neutral tone.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

325

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Figure

Reading

Kanji

姿Shape, Figure

Explanation

The Japanese noun '姿 (すがた)' refers to a person's figure, appearance, or form. It is often used to describe the physical shape or silhouette of someone or something, and can also imply the presence or absence of a person. For example: her figure disappeared into the crowd「彼女の姿は群衆の中に消えた」(かのじょのすがたはぐんしゅうのなかにきえた). The figure of a mountain in the distance「遠くに山の姿が見える」(とおくにやまのすがたがみえる). This word can also be used metaphorically to describe the state or condition of something, such as 'the figure of a company'「会社の姿」(かいしゃのすがた).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

326

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Condition

Reading

Kanji

状Form, Condition 態Appearance, Condition

Explanation

The Japanese noun '状態 (じょうたい)' refers to the state or condition of something. It is commonly used to describe the current state of an object, situation, or even a person's health. For example: The condition of the machine is bad「機械の状態が悪い」(きかいのじょうたいがわるい). The patient's condition is stable「患者の状態は安定している」(かんじゃのじょうたいはあんていしている). This word is versatile and can be applied to various contexts, such as physical states, emotional states, or the status of a project.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

330

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Room

Reading

Kanji

屋Shop, Roof 部Section, Department

Explanation

The Japanese noun '部屋 (へや)' means 'room'. It refers to a space within a building, enclosed by walls, a floor, and a ceiling, typically used for a specific purpose such as living, sleeping, or working. This word is commonly used in everyday conversation to describe rooms in homes, offices, or other buildings. For example: This room is bright「この部屋は明るい」(このへやはあかるい). I cleaned my room「私は部屋を掃除した」(わたしはへやをそうじした). The word can also be used in compound nouns, such as '寝室 (しんしつ) (bedroom)' or '会議室 (かいぎしつ) (meeting room)', but '部屋' alone generally refers to a generic room.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

334

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Part

Reading

Kanji

部Section, Department 分Minute, Part

Explanation

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)'.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

336

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Truth

Reading

Kanji

実Fruit, Truth

Explanation

The Japanese noun '実 (じつ)' primarily means 'truth' or 'reality'. It refers to something that is genuine, factual, or real, as opposed to something imagined or false. This word is often used in contexts where the authenticity or actual state of something is being emphasized. For example: He told the truth「彼は実を言った」(かれはじつをいった). The reality is different from what we expected「実は私たちが予想したのとは違う」(じつはわたしたちがよそうしたのとはちがう). Additionally, '実' can sometimes refer to 'fruit' in a botanical context, but this is a separate and less common meaning.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

337

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Study

Reading

Kanji

学Learn

Explanation

The Japanese noun '学 (がく)' primarily means 'study' or 'learning'. It refers to the act of acquiring knowledge or the field of academic pursuit. This word is often used in compound words related to education, such as '学校 (がっこう)' (school) or '学生 (がくせい)' (student). For example: I enjoy studying「私は学が好きです」(わたしはがくがすきです). He is a scholar of history「彼は歴史の学です」(かれはれきしのがくです). The word can also imply a deeper sense of scholarly pursuit or academic discipline.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

339

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Incident

Reading

Kanji

事Thing 件Matter, Affair

Explanation

The Japanese noun '事件 (じけん)' refers to an 'incident' or 'event', often implying something noteworthy, unusual, or involving trouble, such as a crime or accident. It is commonly used in news reports, discussions about legal matters, or everyday conversations to describe significant occurrences. For example: The police are investigating the incident「警察は事件を調査しています」(けいさつはじけんをちょうさしています). This incident shocked everyone「この事件は皆を驚かせた」(このじけんはみんなをおどろかせた). The word can also be used in a broader sense to describe any notable event, but it often carries a connotation of seriousness or disruption.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

344

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Foreign student

Reading

Kanji

生Life 学Learn 留Stay, Detain

Explanation

The Japanese noun '留学生 (りゅうがくせい)' means 'foreign student'. This term refers to a student who is studying in a country other than their own, typically for higher education or long term study programs. It is a common term used in Japanese campuses and academic contexts. For example: He is a foreign student from China「彼は中国からの留学生です」(かれはちゅうごくからのりゅうがくせいです).The university has many foreign students「その大学には留学生がたくさんいます」(そのだいがくにはりゅうがくせいがたくさんいます).The word is a combination of '留学'(りゅうがく), meaning 'studying abroad', and '生'(せい), meaning 'student' or 'life'.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

345

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

General

Reading

Kanji

般Sort, Carrier 一One

Explanation

The Japanese noun '一般 (いっぱん)' means 'general' and refers to something that is common, widespread, or applicable to the majority. It is often used to describe concepts, rules, or ideas that are not specific or specialized. For example: general public「一般の人々」(いっぱんのひとびと). This is a general rule「これは一般のルールです」(これはいっぱんのルールです). It can also be used in phrases like '一般向け (いっぱんむけ)' meaning 'for the general public' or '一般論 (いっぱんろん)' meaning 'general theory'.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

349

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Most

Reading

Kanji

番Turn 一One

Explanation

The Japanese adverb '一番 (いちばん)' means 'most' or 'number one'. It is used to indicate the highest degree of something, often in comparisons. For example: This is the most delicious「これが一番美味しい」(これがいちばんおいしい). She is the fastest「彼女が一番速い」(かのじょがいちばんはやい). It can also be used to indicate the first in a sequence, such as in '一番目 (いちばんめ) (first in order)'. The word is versatile and can be used in various contexts to emphasize superiority or priority.

Part Of Speech

adverb

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

350

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Beginning

Reading

Kanji

初Beginning, First 最Most

Explanation

The Japanese noun '最初 (さいしょ)' means 'beginning' or 'the first'. It refers to the very start of something, such as an event, process, or period. This word is often used to emphasize the initial stage or point in time. For example: At the beginning, it was difficult「最初は難しかった」(さいしょはむずかしかった). Let's start from the beginning「最初から始めましょう」(さいしょからはじめましょう). It can also be used to describe the first occurrence of something, as in '最初の試み (さいしょのこころみ) (the first attempt)'. Note that '最初' is distinct from '始め (はじめ)', which can also mean 'beginning' but often refers to the start of an action or process rather than a specific point in time.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

352

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Area

Reading

Kanji

域Area, Limits 地Ground

Explanation

The Japanese noun '地域 (ちいき)' refers to a specific 'area' or 'region'. It is commonly used to describe a geographical area, such as a district, zone, or locality. This word can also be used in contexts discussing regional characteristics, such as culture, economy, or climate. For example: This area is famous for its hot springs「この地域は温泉で有名です」(このちいきはおんせんでゆうめいです). The government is investing in rural areas「政府は地方地域に投資しています」(せいふはちほうちいきにとうししています). Note that '地域' often implies a defined or bounded space, whether physical or conceptual.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

354

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Reason

Reading

Kanji

由Reason 理Reason

Explanation

The Japanese noun '理由 (りゆう)' means 'reason'. It refers to the cause, explanation, or justification for something. This word is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to explain why something happened or why someone did something. For example: What is the reason for your absence?「欠席の理由は何ですか？」(けっせきのりゆうはなんですか？). There is no reason to worry「心配する理由はない」(しんぱいするりゆうはない). It can also be used in legal or logical contexts to denote grounds or rationale.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

355

Composition

kanji

Handwriting