言Japanese VocabularyOrganized by Composition

word

Meaning

Careless, Sloppy

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese adjective 'だらしない (darashinai)' primarily means 'sloppy' or 'careless'. It is used to describe someone or something that lacks discipline, tidiness, or attention to detail. This word often carries a negative connotation and can be used to criticize someone's appearance, behavior, or work. For example: His room is so sloppy「彼の部屋はだらしない」(かれのへやはだらしない). She is careless with her belongings「彼女は持ち物をだらしない」(かのじょはもちものをだらしない). The word can also imply a lack of self-control or moral discipline, as in: He is careless with money「彼はお金にだらしない」(かれはおかねにだらしない).

Part Of Speech

adjective

Frequency

7000

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Corn

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese noun 'とうもろこし' refers to 'corn', specifically the edible grain or the plant itself. It is commonly used in everyday conversation when discussing food, agriculture, or cooking. For example: I bought fresh corn「新鮮なとうもろこしを買いました」(しんせんなとうもろこしをかいました). Corn is delicious「とうもろこしは美味しい」(とうもろこしはおいしい). This word is often used in contexts related to cooking, such as grilling corn or adding it to salads. It is important to note that 'とうもろこし' specifically refers to sweet corn, not other types of corn like popcorn or field corn.

Part Of Speech

noun

Frequency

7018

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Fluttering

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese adverb 'ひらひら (hirahira)' describes the light, gentle, and fluttering movement of something, such as leaves, paper, or fabric. It conveys a sense of softness and delicacy in motion. For example: the petals are fluttering in the wind「花びらが風にひらひらしている」(はなびらがかぜにひらひらしている). The ribbon fluttered as she ran「リボンがひらひらと揺れた」(リボンがひらひらとゆれた). This word is often used to evoke a poetic or picturesque image of movement.

Part Of Speech

adverb

Frequency

7023

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Warm

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese adverb 'ぽかぽか' describes a pleasant, comfortable warmth, often associated with sunlight or a cozy atmosphere. It conveys a sense of gentle, soothing heat rather than intense or uncomfortable warmth. For example: The sun feels warm「日差しがぽかぽかする」(ひざしがぽかぽかする). This kotatsu is warm「このこたつはぽかぽかだ」(このこたつはぽかぽかだ). It is often used to describe weather, objects, or environments that provide a comforting and mild warmth.

Part Of Speech

adverb

Frequency

7032

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Loose

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese adjective 'だぶだぶ (だぶだぶ)' describes something that is loose or baggy, often referring to clothing that is too large for the wearer. It can also describe liquids that are sloshing around in a container. This word is onomatopoeic, conveying a sense of looseness or excess. For example: these pants are too loose「このズボンはだぶだぶだ」(このズボンはだぶだぶだ). The soup is sloshing in the bowl「スープがボウルの中でだぶだぶしている」(スープがボウルの中でだぶだぶしている). The word is often used in casual contexts and carries a slightly informal tone.

Part Of Speech

adjective

Frequency

7052

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Smooth, Slippery

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese adverb 'つるつる (つるつる)' is used to describe something that is slippery or smooth to the touch. It can refer to the texture of objects, such as a polished surface or a slippery floor, as well as the texture of food, like smooth noodles or slippery tofu. For example: The floor is slippery「床がつるつるだ」(ゆかがつるつるだ). The noodles are smooth「麺がつるつるしている」(めんがつるつるしている). Additionally, 'つるつる' can be used to describe hair that is smooth and shiny, as in 'Her hair is smooth「彼女の髪はつるつるだ」(かのじょのかみはつるつるだ).' This word is often used in a playful or descriptive manner to emphasize the tactile quality of something.

Part Of Speech

adverb

Frequency

7067

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Startled

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese adverb 'どきっと' describes a sudden feeling of surprise, shock, or being startled. It is often used to express a momentary physical or emotional reaction, such as a quickened heartbeat or a sudden realization. For example: I was startled by the loud noise「大きな音にどきっとした」(おおきなおとにどきっとした). She was startled when she saw the ghost「彼女は幽霊を見てどきっとした」(かのじょはゆうれいをみてどきっとした). This word is commonly used in casual conversations and literature to convey a vivid, immediate reaction.

Part Of Speech

adverb

Frequency

7075

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Slowly

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese adverb 'のろのろ (noronoro)' means 'slowly' and is used to describe actions or movements that are sluggish, unhurried, or lacking in speed. It often carries a nuance of something being slower than expected or desired. For example: The turtle is walking slowly「カメがのろのろ歩いている」(かめがのろのろあるいている). The traffic is moving slowly「交通がのろのろ進んでいる」(こうつうがのろのろすすんでいる). This word can also imply a sense of frustration or impatience, depending on the context, such as when someone is waiting for something to happen faster.

Part Of Speech

adverb

Frequency

7088

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Comfortably

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese adverb 'ゆったり (yuttari)' conveys a sense of comfort, spaciousness, or relaxation. It is often used to describe a state of being at ease, both physically and mentally. For example: I want to live comfortably「ゆったり暮らしたい」(ゆったりくらしたい). This sofa is very comfortable「このソファはゆったりしている」(このソファはゆったりしている). The word can also describe physical spaces that are spacious or not cramped, such as a room or clothing. For instance: This room feels spacious「この部屋はゆったりしている」(このへやはゆったりしている).

Part Of Speech

adverb

Frequency

7093

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Octopus

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese noun 'たこ' refers to an 'octopus', a sea creature with eight arms. It is commonly used in both everyday conversation and culinary contexts, as octopus is a popular ingredient in Japanese cuisine. For example: I ate octopus sushi「たこの寿司を食べた」(たこのすしをたべた). The octopus is swimming in the aquarium「たこが水族館で泳いでいる」(たこがすいぞくかんでおよいでいる). Additionally, 'たこ' can sometimes refer to a kite, but this is a less common usage and typically clarified by context. For example: The kite is flying high「たこが高く飛んでいる」(たこがたかくとんでいる).

Part Of Speech

noun

Frequency

7095

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Shiny

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese adverb 'ぴかぴか' (pikapika) describes something that is shiny, gleaming, or sparkling. It is often used to emphasize the brightness or cleanliness of an object, such as polished metal, clean surfaces, or even stars. This word is onomatopoeic, mimicking the visual effect of light reflecting off a surface. For example: The car is shiny「車がぴかぴかだ」(くるまがぴかぴかだ). The stars are sparkling「星がぴかぴか光っている」(ほしがぴかぴかひかっている). It can also be used metaphorically to describe something new or fresh, like a brand-new item or a freshly cleaned space.

Part Of Speech

adverb

Frequency

7099

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Excited

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese adverb 'わくわく' (wakuwaku) conveys a feeling of excitement, anticipation, or thrill. It is often used to describe the bubbling, joyful feeling one gets when looking forward to something enjoyable or new. For example: I'm excited for the trip「旅行がわくわくする」(りょこうがわくわくする). The children were excited about the festival「子供たちはお祭りにわくわくしていた」(こどもたちはおまつりにわくわくしていた). This word is commonly used in casual conversations and has a positive, lighthearted tone.

Part Of Speech

adverb

Frequency

7158

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Wasabi

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese noun 'わさび' refers to the plant 'wasabi', a pungent green paste commonly used as a condiment in Japanese cuisine, particularly with sushi and sashimi. It is known for its strong, sharp flavor and is often grated fresh. Example sentences: I like wasabi「わさびが好きです」(わさびがすきです). This sushi has a lot of wasabi「この寿司はわさびが多い」(このすしはわさびがおおい). Wasabi is spicy「わさびは辛い」(わさびはからい).

Part Of Speech

noun

Frequency

7165

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Smirk

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese adverb 'にやにや (niyaniya)' describes a sly or self-satisfied smile, often implying amusement, mischief, or secretive thoughts. It is used to depict someone smiling in a way that suggests they know something others don't or are quietly pleased about something. For example: He smirked when he saw the surprise「彼はそのサプライズを見てにやにやした」(かれはそのサプライズをみてにやにやした). She was smirking while reading the message「彼女はメッセージを読みながらにやにやしていた」(かのじょはメッセージをよみながらにやにやしていた). This word is often used to convey a sense of hidden amusement or mischief.

Part Of Speech

adverb

Frequency

7180

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Fluffy

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese adjective 'ふわふわ (fuwafuwa)' describes something that is soft, light, and airy, often with a fluffy or pillowy texture. It can be used to describe physical objects like pillows, clouds, or baked goods, as well as abstract feelings like a lighthearted mood. For example: This bread is fluffy「このパンはふわふわだ」(このパンはふわふわだ). She feels lighthearted today「彼女は今日ふわふわした気分だ」(かのじょはきょうふわふわしたきぶんだ). The word can also imply a sense of floating or being ungrounded, both physically and emotionally.

Part Of Speech

adjective

Frequency

7192

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Rub, Massage

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese verb 'もむ (momu)' primarily means 'to rub' or 'to massage'. It is used to describe the action of applying pressure and moving one's hands or fingers over a surface, often to relieve tension, pain, or stiffness. For example: I rubbed my sore shoulders「肩が痛かったので、もみました」(かたがいたかったので、もみました). She massaged her temples to relieve a headache「頭痛を和らげるためにこめかみをもんだ」(ずつうをやわらげるためにこめかみをもんだ). The verb can also be used metaphorically, such as in the phrase 'もみ合う (もみあう)', which means 'to jostle' or 'to scramble' in a crowd. Note that 'もむ' is often used in contexts involving physical touch, such as massaging muscles or kneading dough.

Part Of Speech

verb

Frequency

7197

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Careless

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese adjective 'ぞんざい (zonzai)' means 'careless' or 'sloppy'. It is used to describe actions, behavior, or speech that is done without proper attention or respect. It often carries a negative connotation, implying a lack of consideration or refinement. For example: His work is careless「彼の仕事はぞんざいだ」(かれのしごとはぞんざいだ). She spoke in a careless manner「彼女はぞんざいな話し方をした」(かのじょはぞんざいなはなしかたをした). The word can also describe something that is rough or crude in nature, such as 'ぞんざいな扱い (zonzai na atsukai)' (rough handling).

Part Of Speech

adjective

Frequency

7206

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Wardrobe

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese noun 'たんす' refers to a traditional Japanese wardrobe or chest of drawers used for storing clothes and other personal items. It is a common piece of furniture in Japanese households and is often made of wood. Example sentences: I bought a new wardrobe「新しいたんすを買いました」(あたらしいたんすをかいました). The wardrobe is in the bedroom「たんすは寝室にあります」(たんすはしんしつにあります).

Part Of Speech

noun

Frequency

7209

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Caught

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese verb 'つかまる' means 'to be caught' or 'to get caught'. It is often used in contexts where someone or something is captured, arrested, or held firmly. This verb is commonly used in situations involving law enforcement, accidents, or even metaphorical scenarios. For example: The thief was caught by the police「泥棒は警察につかまった」(どろぼうはけいさつにつかまった). I got caught in the rain「雨につかまった」(あめにつかまった). Note that 'つかまる' is an intransitive verb, meaning it describes a state or action that happens to the subject, rather than being performed by the subject.

Part Of Speech

verb

Frequency

7217

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Swallow

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese noun 'つばめ (tsubame)' refers to the bird known as a 'swallow'. Swallows are small, migratory birds often associated with spring and are commonly seen in Japan. They are known for their distinctive forked tails and swift flight. Example sentences: The swallow is flying「つばめが飛んでいる」(つばめがとんでいる). Swallows return in spring「つばめは春に戻る」(つばめははるにもどる). Swallows build nests under eaves「つばめは軒下に巣を作る」(つばめはのきしたにすをつくる).

Part Of Speech

noun

Frequency

7224

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Close

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese verb 'つぶる (tsuburu)' means 'to close' and is specifically used to describe closing one's eyes. It is often used in contexts where someone is intentionally shutting their eyes, such as to avoid seeing something, to concentrate, or to rest. For example: She closed her eyes and prayed「彼女は目をつぶって祈った」(かのじょはめをつぶっていのった). He closed his eyes to avoid the bright light「彼はまぶしい光を避けるために目をつぶった」(かれはまぶしいひかりをさけるためにめをつぶった). This verb is less commonly used for closing objects other than eyes, and it carries a nuance of a deliberate or momentary action.

Part Of Speech

verb

Frequency

7233

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Bud

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese noun 'つぼみ (tsubomi)' refers to a 'bud', specifically the undeveloped flower or leaf before it blooms. This word is commonly used in contexts related to plants, flowers, and nature. For example: the cherry blossoms are in bud「桜のつぼみがついている」(さくらのつぼみがついている). The rose bud is about to bloom「バラのつぼみが咲きそうだ」(ばらのつぼみがさきそうだ). The word can also be used metaphorically to describe something in its early stages of development, such as potential or talent.

Part Of Speech

noun

Frequency

7239

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Stumble

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese verb 'つまずく (つまずく)' means 'to stumble' or 'to trip'. It is used to describe the physical act of losing one's balance, often due to an obstacle or uneven surface. It can also be used metaphorically to describe encountering difficulties or setbacks in life. For example: I stumbled on the stairs「階段でつまずいた」(かいだんでつまずいた). He stumbled in his career「彼はキャリアでつまずいた」(かれはキャリアでつまずいた). The verb is often used in both literal and figurative contexts, making it versatile in everyday conversation.

Part Of Speech

verb

Frequency

7242

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Uneven

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese verbal noun 'でこぼこ (でこぼこ)' means 'uneven' or 'rough'. It is used to describe surfaces or textures that are not smooth, such as bumpy roads or uneven ground. This word can also metaphorically describe situations or conditions that are irregular or inconsistent. For example: The road is uneven「道がでこぼこだ」(みちがでこぼこだ). The surface of the table is rough「テーブルの表面はでこぼこしている」(テーブルのひょうめんはでこぼこしている). Note that 'でこぼこ' can also function as an adjective when combined with 'する' to describe the state of being uneven or rough.

Part Of Speech

verbal noun

Frequency

7248

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Pork cutlet

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese noun 'とんかつ (tonkatsu)' refers to a popular Japanese dish consisting of a breaded, deep-fried pork cutlet. It is typically served with shredded cabbage, rice, miso soup, and a thick, savory sauce called 'tonkatsu sauce'. The dish is a staple of Japanese cuisine and is commonly found in restaurants and bento boxes. Example sentences: I ate tonkatsu for lunch「昼ごはんにとんかつを食べた」(ひるごはんにとんかつをたべた). This restaurant's tonkatsu is delicious「この店のとんかつは美味しい」(このみせのとんかつはおいしい).

Part Of Speech

noun

Frequency

7260

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

How

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese adverb 'どんなに (どんなに)' is used to express 'how' in terms of degree or extent, often emphasizing the intensity or extremity of a situation. It is commonly used in questions or exclamatory sentences to inquire about or emphasize the degree of something. For example: How hard did you study?「どんなに勉強しましたか？」(どんなにべんきょうしましたか？). No matter how much I try, I can't do it「どんなに頑張ってもできない」(どんなにがんばってもできない). This adverb is versatile and can be used in various contexts to emphasize the extent of an action or state.

Part Of Speech

adverb

Frequency

7266

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Carefree

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese adjectival noun 'のんき (nonki)' means 'carefree'. It describes a state of being relaxed, easygoing, or free from worry. This word is often used to describe a person's personality or attitude, but it can also describe situations or lifestyles. For example: He is a carefree person「彼はのんきな人だ」(かれはのんきなひとだ). Living a carefree life is nice「のんきに暮らすのはいいね」(のんきにくらすのはいいね). Note that 'のんき' can sometimes carry a slightly negative nuance, implying a lack of seriousness or responsibility, depending on the context.

Part Of Speech

adjectival noun

Frequency

7278

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Fly

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese noun 'はえ' refers to a 'fly', the small flying insect. This word is commonly used in everyday conversation when referring to the insect. For example: There is a fly in the room「部屋にはえがいる」(へやにはえがいる). I don't like flies「はえが嫌いだ」(はえがきらいだ). It's important to note that 'はえ' specifically refers to the insect and not the verb 'to fly'.

Part Of Speech

noun

Frequency

7283

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Ridiculous

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese adjective 'ばかばかしい (ばかばかしい)' means 'ridiculous' or 'absurd'. It is used to describe something that is so foolish or nonsensical that it becomes laughable. This word often carries a tone of disbelief or exasperation. For example: That idea is ridiculous「その考えはばかばかしい」(そのかんがえはばかばかしい). It's ridiculous to think that way「そんな風に考えるのはばかばかしい」(そんなふうにかんがえるのはばかばかしい). The word can also be used to express frustration or annoyance with a situation that seems utterly pointless or illogical.

Part Of Speech

adjective

Frequency

7285

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Scale

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese noun 'はかり (hakari)' refers to a 'scale', a device used for measuring weight. It is commonly used in contexts such as cooking, science, or commerce. For example: I weighed the apples on the scale「りんごをはかりで量った」(りんごをはかりではかった). The scale is broken「はかりが壊れている」(はかりがこわれている). This word can also refer to the act of measuring or weighing, depending on the context, but its primary meaning is the physical device.

Part Of Speech

noun

Frequency

7290

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Ladder

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese noun 'はしご (hashigo)' means 'ladder'. It refers to a tool used for climbing up or down, typically consisting of rungs or steps fixed between two long uprights. This word is commonly used in everyday contexts, such as in construction, home maintenance, or emergency situations. For example: He climbed the ladder to fix the roof「彼は屋根を直すためにはしごを登った」(かれはやねをなおすためにはしごをのぼった). The firefighter used a ladder to rescue the cat「消防士は猫を助けるにはしごを使った」(しょうぼうしはねこをたすけるにはしごをつかった). Additionally, 'はしご' can also refer to a series of bars or steps used metaphorically, such as in 'career ladder'. However, this usage is less common in Japanese compared to English.

Part Of Speech

noun

Frequency

7292

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Barefoot

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese noun 'はだし (hadashi)' means 'barefoot'. It refers to the state of not wearing any footwear, with the feet directly touching the ground or surface. This word is often used to describe someone who is walking or standing without shoes, or to emphasize a natural or informal state. For example: The child is running barefoot「子供がはだしで走っている」(こどもがはだしではしっている). I walked barefoot on the beach「私ははだしでビーチを歩いた」(わたしははだしでビーチをあるいた). The word can also be used metaphorically to describe something in its most basic or unadorned form.

Part Of Speech

noun

Frequency

7296

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Jump

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese verb 'はねる (haneru)' primarily means 'to jump'. It is used to describe the action of leaping or springing off the ground or another surface. This verb can be used in various contexts, such as describing physical actions or metaphorical leaps. For example: The rabbit jumps「うさぎがはねる」(うさぎがはねる). He jumped over the puddle「彼は水たまりをはねた」(かれはみずたまりをはねた). Additionally, 'はねる' can sometimes imply a sense of bouncing or rebounding, depending on the context.

Part Of Speech

verb

Frequency

7304

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Foot (measure)

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese noun 'ふもと' refers to the 'foot' or 'base' of a mountain or hill. It is used to describe the area where the mountain or hill meets the ground. This term is often used in geographical contexts or when giving directions. For example: Let's meet at the foot of the mountain「山のふもとで会いましょう」(やまのふもとであいましょう). The village is located at the foot of the hill「その村は丘のふもとにあります」(そのむらはおかのふもとにあります). It's important to note that 'ふもと' specifically refers to the base of elevated landforms and is not used for the feet of animals or people.

Part Of Speech

noun

Frequency

7317

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Navel

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese noun 'へそ (heso)' refers to the 'navel' or 'belly button,' the small, central scar on the abdomen left after the umbilical cord is cut at birth. It is a common word used in everyday conversation and can also appear in idiomatic expressions or metaphors. For example: My navel is cute「私のへそはかわいい」(わたしのへそはかわいい). He pointed at his navel「彼は自分のへそを指さした」(かれはじぶんのへそをゆびさした). In some contexts, 'へそ' can also be used humorously or metaphorically to describe the center or core of something, such as the 'navel' of a fruit or the central point of an object.

Part Of Speech

noun

Frequency

7324

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Sticky

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese adjective 'べたべた (betabeta)' describes something that is sticky or gooey. It is often used to describe surfaces or substances that adhere to other things, such as glue, syrup, or tape. It can also be used metaphorically to describe overly clingy behavior in relationships. For example: the floor is sticky「床がべたべたしている」(ゆかがべたべたしている). She is too clingy「彼女はべたべたしている」(かのじょはべたべたしている). The word can also imply a sense of messiness or discomfort due to the sticky nature of something.

Part Of Speech

adjective

Frequency

7329

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Untie

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese verb 'ほどく (hodoku)' means 'to untie' or 'to undo'. It is used when referring to the action of loosening or unfastening something that is tied, such as a knot, a rope, or a bundle. For example: I untied the rope「ロープをほどいた」(ロープをほどいた). She untied her hair「彼女は髪をほどいた」(かのじょはかみをほどいた). This verb can also be used metaphorically to describe resolving a complicated situation or unraveling a mystery. For instance: He untangled the complex problem「彼は複雑な問題をほどいた」(かれはふくざつなもんだいをほどいた).

Part Of Speech

verb

Frequency

7341

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Cheek

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese noun 'ほほ (hoho)' refers to the 'cheek', the part of the face below the eye and beside the nose. It is commonly used in everyday conversation and literature to describe this part of the body. For example: Her cheeks turned red「彼女のほほが赤くなった」(かのじょのほほがあかくなった). I kissed the baby's cheek「赤ちゃんのほほにキスをした」(あかちゃんのほほにきすをした). The word can also be written as '頬' in kanji, but 'ほほ' is more commonly used in hiragana in casual contexts.

Part Of Speech

noun

Frequency

7346

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Summary

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese noun 'まとめ (まため)' means 'summary'. It refers to a concise and organized presentation of the main points or key information from a larger body of content. This word is commonly used in contexts such as summarizing articles, meetings, or discussions. For example: Please give me a summary of the report「レポートのまとめをください」(レポートのまためをください). The summary of the meeting is ready「会議のまとめができました」(かいぎのまためができました). It can also imply the act of organizing or compiling information, as in 'I will summarize the data'「データをまとめます」(データをまためます).

Part Of Speech

noun

Frequency

7356

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Imitate

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese verb 'まねる' means 'to imitate' or 'to mimic'. It is used when someone copies the actions, behavior, or style of another person or thing. This verb can be applied in various contexts, such as imitating someone's speech, gestures, or artistic style. For example: The child imitated his father「子供は父親をまねた」(こどもはちちおやをまねた). She imitated the famous singer's dance「彼女は有名な歌手のダンスをまねた」(かのじょはゆうめいなかしゅのダンスをまねた). The word can also imply learning by copying, often used in a positive sense when referring to mastering skills by observing and imitating others.

Part Of Speech

verb

Frequency

7364

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Eyelid

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese noun 'まぶた' refers to the 'eyelid', the thin fold of skin that covers and protects the eye. It is commonly used in everyday conversation and medical contexts. For example: Her eyelids are heavy「彼女のまぶたが重い」(かのじょのまぶたがおもい). I can't open my eyelids「まぶたが開かない」(まぶたがあかない). The word can also be used metaphorically, as in 'the eyelids of night' to describe the closing of the day.

Part Of Speech

noun

Frequency

7368

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Rare

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese adjective 'まれ (mare)' means 'rare'. It is used to describe something that is uncommon, infrequent, or unusual. This word can be applied to events, occurrences, or even objects that are not often seen or experienced. For example: a rare event「まれな出来事」(まれなできごと). It is rare to see such kindness「そんな親切はまれだ」(そんなしんせつはまれだ). The word 'まれ' often carries a nuance of something being exceptional or noteworthy due to its scarcity.

Part Of Speech

adjective

Frequency

7372

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Profit

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese verb 'もうかる (moukaru)' means 'to profit' or 'to make a gain'. It is commonly used in contexts related to business, finance, or any situation where a financial or material gain is achieved. For example: His business is profitable「彼のビジネスはもうかっている」(かれのビジネスはもうかっている). We made a profit this year「今年はもうかった」(ことしはもうかった). The verb can also imply a sense of luck or unexpected gain, such as in gambling or investments. It is often used in casual conversations to describe financial success.

Part Of Speech

verb

Frequency

7388

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Profit

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese noun 'もうけ' (mouke) refers to 'profit' or 'gain', particularly in a financial or business context. It is used to describe the earnings or benefits obtained from an activity or transaction. For example: The company made a big profit「会社は大きなもうけを出した」(かいしゃはおおきなもうけをだした). He is always looking for profit「彼はいつももうけを狙っている」(かれはいつももうけをねらっている). This word can also imply a sense of advantage or benefit in a broader sense, not strictly limited to money.

Part Of Speech

noun

Frequency

7393

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Maybe

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese adverb 'もしかしたら (もしかしたら)' means 'maybe' or 'perhaps'. It is used to express uncertainty or possibility about a situation or outcome. This word is often used when speculating or considering a hypothetical scenario. It can be paired with phrases like 'かもしれない (かもしれない)' to further emphasize uncertainty. For example: Maybe it will rain tomorrow「もしかしたら明日は雨が降るかもしれない」(もしかしたらあしたはあめがふるかもしれない). Perhaps he forgot about the meeting「もしかしたら彼は会議のことを忘れたのかもしれない」(もしかしたらかれはかいぎのことをわすれたのかもしれない). Note that 'もしかしたら' is slightly more formal and speculative than other similar words like 'たぶん (たぶん)' (probably).

Part Of Speech

adverb

Frequency

7396

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Popular

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese verb 'もてる (もてる)' means 'to be popular' or 'to be well-liked', particularly in the context of romantic or social appeal. It is often used to describe someone who is attractive or charismatic and thus receives a lot of attention or admiration from others. For example: he is popular with girls「彼は女の子にもてる」(かれはおんなのこにもてる). She is very popular at school「彼女は学校でもてる」(かのじょはがっこうでもてる). This verb is commonly used in casual conversations and is associated with youth culture. It can also imply a sense of being in demand or having a high social status.

Part Of Speech

verb

Frequency

7402

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Send, Cause

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese verb 'よこす (yokosu)' primarily means 'to send' something to someone, often implying the movement of an object or message from one place to another. It can also mean 'to cause' something, typically something negative or troublesome. For example: I will send you the documents「書類をよこします」(しょるいをよこします). His behavior caused a lot of trouble「彼の行動は多くの問題をよこした」(かれのこうどうはおおくのもんだいをよこした). The verb is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts, and its meaning can slightly shift depending on the situation.

Part Of Speech

verb

Frequency

7412

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Stop

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese verb 'よす (yosu)' means 'to stop' or 'to cease'. It is often used in casual or colloquial contexts to indicate stopping an action or behavior. This verb can be used in various situations, such as stopping a physical activity, quitting a habit, or halting a conversation. For example: stop talking「話をよす」(はなしをよす). I will stop drinking alcohol「お酒をよす」(おさけをよす). Note that 'よす' is less formal compared to other verbs like 'やめる (yameru)', and it is commonly used in spoken language.

Part Of Speech

verb

Frequency

7416

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Candle

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese noun 'ろうそく' refers to a 'candle'. Candles are commonly used for lighting, decoration, or in religious and ceremonial contexts. They are typically made of wax with a central wick that is lit to produce light. Example sentences include: The candle is burning「ろうそくが燃えている」(ろうそくがもえている). She lit a candle「彼女はろうそくをつけた」(かのじょはろうそくをつけた). In traditional Japanese settings, candles are often used in tea ceremonies or during festivals.

Part Of Speech

noun

Frequency

7422

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Selfish

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese adjectival noun 'わがまま (わがまま)' means 'selfish' or 'self-centered'. It describes someone who acts according to their own desires without considering others. This term is often used to describe behavior that is inconsiderate or demanding. For example: She is being selfish「彼女はわがままです」(かのじょはわがままです). Don't be so selfish「そんなにわがままを言わないで」(そんなにわがままをいわないで). The word can also be used to describe a child who is spoiled or demanding, as in 'わがままな子供 (わがままなこども) (spoiled child)'.

Part Of Speech

adjectival noun

Frequency

7426

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Ridiculous

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese adjective 'ばからしい (ばからしい)' means 'ridiculous' or 'absurd'. It is often used to express frustration or disbelief about something that seems illogical, pointless, or nonsensical. This word carries a negative connotation and is typically used in informal contexts. For example: That idea is ridiculous「そのアイデアはばからしい」(そのアイデアはばからしい). It's ridiculous to argue about such a small thing「そんな小さなことで争うのはばからしい」(そんなちいさなことであらそうのはばからしい). Note that 'ばからしい' can also imply a sense of foolishness or stupidity in the situation being described.

Part Of Speech

adjective

Frequency

7433

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Somehow

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese adverb 'なぜか (なぜか)' means 'somehow' or 'for some reason'. It is used to express that something happens or is the case without a clear or obvious reason. This word often conveys a sense of curiosity or uncertainty about the cause of a situation. For example: Somehow, I feel uneasy「なぜか、不安だ」(なぜか、ふあんだ). For some reason, he didn't come「なぜか、彼は来なかった」(なぜか、かれはこなかった). The word 'なぜか' is commonly used in both casual and formal contexts to describe situations where the reason is unclear or unknown.

Part Of Speech

adverb

Frequency

7436

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Suddenly

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese adverb 'にわかに (にわかに)' means 'suddenly' or 'abruptly'. It is used to describe something that happens unexpectedly or without warning. This adverb can be used in various contexts, such as weather changes, emotional shifts, or sudden realizations. For example: The weather suddenly changed「天気がにわかに変わった」(てんきがにわかにかわった). He suddenly became serious「彼はにわかに真面目になった」(かれはにわかにまじめになった). It's important to note that 'にわかに' often carries a nuance of something happening quickly and unexpectedly, adding a sense of immediacy to the situation.

Part Of Speech

adverb

Frequency

7439

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Exactly

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese adverb 'ぴたりと (ぴたりと)' means 'exactly' or 'precisely'. It is often used to describe something that fits perfectly or stops abruptly. This word can be used in various contexts, such as when something matches perfectly, when an action stops suddenly, or when something is timed perfectly. For example: The door closed exactly at that moment「ドアがぴたりと閉まった」(ドアがぴたりとしまった). The puzzle pieces fit together exactly「パズルのピースがぴたりと合った」(パズルのピースがぴたりとあった). The train stopped exactly at the station「電車がぴたりと駅に止まった」(でんしゃがぴたりとえきにとまった).

Part Of Speech

adverb

Frequency

7442

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Lightly

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese adverb 'ぴょんと (ぴょんと)' describes a light, quick, or sudden movement, often with a sense of springiness or bounce. It is commonly used to depict actions like jumping, hopping, or moving swiftly. For example: The rabbit hopped lightly「うさぎがぴょんと跳ねた」(うさぎがぴょんとはねた). She lightly skipped over the puddle「彼女は水たまりをぴょんと飛び越えた」(かのじょはみずたまりをぴょんととびこえた). This adverb conveys a sense of agility and lightness in motion.

Part Of Speech

adverb

Frequency

7444

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Lightly

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese adverb 'ひらりと (hirarito)' describes a light, swift, or graceful movement, often implying something done effortlessly or with agility. It is commonly used to depict actions like jumping, flipping, or moving quickly and smoothly. For example: The bird flew lightly away「鳥がひらりと飛び去った」(とりがひらりととびさった). She lightly dodged the ball「彼女はひらりとボールをかわした」(かのじょはひらりとボールをかわした). This adverb conveys a sense of elegance and ease in motion.

Part Of Speech

adverb

Frequency

7447

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Soon

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese adverb 'もうじき' means 'soon' and is used to indicate that something will happen in the near future. It conveys a sense of immediacy or anticipation. For example: The train will arrive soon「電車はもうじき来ます」(でんしゃはもうじききます). Summer vacation is coming soon「夏休みはもうじきです」(なつやすみはもうじきです). This word is often used in casual and formal contexts alike, and it carries a neutral tone. It is important to note that 'もうじき' is typically used for events or actions that are expected to happen shortly, rather than for general future events.

Part Of Speech

adverb

Frequency

7448

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Excessively

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese adverb 'やたらに (やたらに)' means 'excessively' or 'recklessly'. It is used to describe actions or states that are done in an extreme or uncontrolled manner. This word often carries a negative connotation, implying that something is done without proper consideration or moderation. For example: he talks excessively「彼はやたらにしゃべる」(かれはやたらにしゃべる). She spends money recklessly「彼女はやたらにお金を使う」(かのじょはやたらにおかねをつかう). The adverb can also imply randomness or lack of purpose, as in 'やたらに歩き回る (やたらにあるきまわる) (to wander around aimlessly)'.

Part Of Speech

adverb

Frequency

7451

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting