Japanese VocabularyOrganized by Frequency of Use

word

Meaning

One

Reading

Kanji

一One

Explanation

The Japanese noun '一 (いち)' means 'one'. It is used to denote the number one or a single item. This word is fundamental in counting and is often used in various contexts, such as dates, times, and quantities. For example: one apple「一つのりんご」(ひとつのりんご). It is also used in idiomatic expressions and compound words. For instance, '一人 (ひとり)' means 'one person' or 'alone'. Note that '一' can also be part of larger numbers, such as '十一 (じゅういち)' for 'eleven'.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

1

Frequency

1

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Two

Reading

Kanji

二Two

Explanation

The Japanese noun '二 (に)' means 'two'. It is a basic numeral used to represent the number two in counting or numbering. This word is often used in various contexts, such as counting objects, indicating age, or specifying quantities. For example: two apples「二つのりんご」(ふたつのりんご). I am two years old「私は二歳です」(わたしはにさいです). It is important to note that '二 (に)' is typically used in combination with counters or other words to specify what is being counted, as in '二匹 (にひき) (two small animals)' or '二回 (にかい) (two times)'.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

1

Frequency

2

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Three

Reading

Kanji

三Three

Explanation

The Japanese noun '三 (さん)' means 'three'. It is a number used to denote the quantity or position of something in a sequence. This word is commonly used in various contexts, such as counting objects, indicating time, or specifying order. For example: there are three apples「りんごが三つあります」(りんごがみっつあります). It's the third of the month「今日は三日です」(きょうはみっかです). The word '三' can also be part of compound words, such as '三日月 (みかづき)' (crescent moon), where it retains its numerical meaning but contributes to a broader concept.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

1

Frequency

3

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Four

Reading

Kanji

四Four

Explanation

The Japanese noun '四 (よん)' means 'four'. It is a cardinal number used to denote the quantity or position of something in a sequence. This reading is commonly used in everyday speech and is more casual compared to the on'yomi reading 'し'. For example: there are four apples「りんごが四つある」(りんごがよっつある). I live on the fourth floor「四階に住んでいます」(よんかいにすんでいます). It's important to note that '四' can also be read as 'し' in certain contexts, such as in the word '四月 (しがつ)' meaning 'April'.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

1

Frequency

4

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Five

Reading

Kanji

五Five

Explanation

The Japanese noun '五 (ご)' means 'five'. It is a number used to denote the quantity or position of something in a sequence. This word is often used in counting, dates, and other contexts where numbers are relevant. For example: five apples「五つのりんご」(ごつのりんご). It is also used in compound words and phrases, such as '五月 (ごがつ)' meaning 'May' (the fifth month). Note that '五' can also be read as 'いつ' in some traditional contexts, but 'ご' is the most common reading in modern usage.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

1

Frequency

5

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Six

Reading

Kanji

六Six

Explanation

The Japanese noun '六 (ろく)' means 'six'. It is a numeral used to represent the number six in counting or describing quantities. This word is commonly used in various contexts, such as telling time, counting objects, or indicating age. For example: It's six o'clock「六時です」(ろくじです). There are six apples「りんごが六つあります」(りんごがむっつあります). The number six is also considered lucky in some cultures, which can add a positive connotation when used in certain contexts.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

1

Frequency

6

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Seven

Reading

Kanji

七Seven

Explanation

The Japanese noun '七 (なな)' means 'seven'. It is used to denote the number seven in various contexts, such as counting, age, or quantity. For example: I have seven apples「りんごを七つ持っています」(りんごをななつもっています). She is seven years old「彼女は七歳です」(かのじょはななさいです). The word '七' can also be read as 'しち' in certain contexts, such as when counting in a sequence or in specific compound words, but 'なな' is more commonly used in everyday speech to avoid confusion with '一 (いち)' which sounds similar.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

1

Frequency

7

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Eight

Reading

Kanji

八Eight

Explanation

The Japanese noun '八 (はち)' means 'eight'. It is used to denote the number eight in various contexts, such as counting, age, or quantity. For example: I have eight apples「りんごを八つ持っています」(りんごをやっつもっています). She is eight years old「彼女は八歳です」(かのじょははっさいです). The word can also be part of compound words or phrases, such as '八月 (はちがつ)' meaning 'August' or '八日 (ようか)' meaning 'the eighth day of the month'.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

1

Frequency

8

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Nine

Reading

Kanji

九Nine

Explanation

The Japanese noun '九 (きゅう)' means 'nine'. It is used to represent the number nine in various contexts, such as counting, age, or quantities. For example: I have nine apples「りんごが九つあります」(りんごがきゅうつあります). She is nine years old「彼女は九歳です」(かのじょはきゅうさいです). This word is commonly used in everyday conversations and is essential for basic counting and numerical expressions in Japanese.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

1

Frequency

9

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Ten

Reading

Kanji

十Ten

Explanation

The Japanese noun '十 (じゅう)' means 'ten'. It is used to represent the number ten in counting or numerical contexts. This word is fundamental in Japanese for counting, mathematics, and everyday use. For example: There are ten apples「りんごが十あります」(りんごがじゅうあります). I have ten fingers「私は指が十本あります」(わたしはゆびがじゅうほんあります). The word can also appear in compound numbers, such as '二十 (にじゅう)' (twenty) or '三十 (さんじゅう)' (thirty).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

1

Frequency

10

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Day, Sun

Reading

Kanji

日Day, Sun

Explanation

The Japanese noun '日 (ひ)' can mean both 'day' and 'sun', depending on the context. When referring to 'day', it is used to describe a 24-hour period or a specific day, such as in '今日は良い日です (きょうはよいひです)' (Today is a good day). When referring to 'sun', it describes the celestial body that provides light and warmth, as in '日が昇る (ひがのぼる)' (The sun rises). The meaning is usually clear from the context in which it is used. For example: The sun is bright「日が明るい」(ひがあかるい). I will go there one day「いつかそこに行く日がある」(いつかそこにいくひがある).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

1

Frequency

11

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Second, Two days

Reading

Kanji

二Two 日Day, Sun

Explanation

The Japanese noun '二日 (ふつか)' has two primary meanings. First, it refers to the 'second day' of the month, as in 'the second of January'「1月2日」(いちがつふつか). Second, it can mean 'two days', as in 'I stayed for two days'「二日間泊まった」(ふつかかんとまった). The word is commonly used in dates and time expressions. For example: Today is the second of the month「今日は二日です」(きょうはふつかです). I will finish this in two days「これを二日で終わらせます」(これをふつかでおわらせます). Note that the reading 'ふつか' is specific to this word and should not be confused with other readings of the kanji 二 (に) or 日 (ひ).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

1

Frequency

12

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Three days, Third

Reading

Kanji

三Three 日Day, Sun

Explanation

The Japanese noun '三日 (みっか)' can mean 'third' when referring to the third day of the month, or 'three days' when referring to a duration. For example: today is the third of the month「今日は三日です」(きょうはみっかです). I will stay for three days「三日間滞在します」(みっかかんたいざいします). The meaning depends on the context in which it is used, so it's important to pay attention to the surrounding words and phrases.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

1

Frequency

13

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Four days, Fourth

Reading

Kanji

四Four 日Day, Sun

Explanation

The Japanese noun '四日 (よっか)' has two primary meanings. The first is 'fourth', referring to the fourth day of the month. The second is 'four days', indicating a duration of four days. For example: Today is the fourth「今日は四日です」(きょうはよっかです). We will stay for four days「四日間滞在します」(よっかかんたいざいします). Note that the context usually clarifies whether it refers to a date or a duration.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

1

Frequency

14

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Five days, Fifth

Reading

Kanji

五Five 日Day, Sun

Explanation

The Japanese noun '五日 (いつか)' can mean 'fifth' or 'five days'. When referring to the 'fifth', it is often used in the context of dates, such as the fifth day of the month. For example: today is the fifth「今日は五日です」(きょうはいつかです). When referring to 'five days', it can be used to indicate a duration. For example: I will stay for five days「五日間滞在します」(いつかかんたいざいします). The reading 'いつか' is important to distinguish this word from the homophone 'いつか' which means 'someday'.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

1

Frequency

15

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Six days, Sixth

Reading

Kanji

六Six 日Day, Sun

Explanation

The Japanese noun '六日 (むいか)' has two primary meanings. The first meaning is 'sixth', referring to the sixth day of the month. For example: today is the sixth「今日は六日です」(きょうはむいかです). The second meaning is 'six days', referring to a duration of six days. For example: I will stay for six days「六日間滞在します」(むいかかんたいざいします). It's important to note that the context in which '六日' is used will determine whether it refers to a date or a duration.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

1

Frequency

16

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Seven days, Seventh

Reading

Kanji

七Seven 日Day, Sun

Explanation

The Japanese noun '七日 (なのか)' can have two distinct meanings. The first meaning is 'seventh', referring to the seventh day of the month. The second meaning is 'seven days', indicating a period of one week. For example: Today is the seventh「今日は七日です」(きょうはなのかです). I will stay for seven days「七日間滞在します」(なのかかんたいざいします). It's important to note that the context in which '七日' is used will determine whether it refers to the seventh day or a period of seven days.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

1

Frequency

17

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Eight days, Eighth

Reading

Kanji

八Eight 日Day, Sun

Explanation

The Japanese noun '八日 (ようか)' has two primary meanings. The first is 'eighth', referring to the eighth day of the month. For example: Today is the eighth「今日は八日です」(きょうはようかです). The second meaning is 'eight days', referring to a duration of eight days. For example: The festival lasts for eight days「祭りは八日続きます」(まつりはようかつづきます). It's important to note that the context will usually make it clear which meaning is intended, as the first is typically used in dates, while the second is used to describe a period of time.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

1

Frequency

18

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Nine days, Ninth

Reading

Kanji

九Nine 日Day, Sun

Explanation

The Japanese noun '九日 (ここのか)' has two distinct meanings. The first meaning refers to the ninth day of the month, such as in 'today is the ninth'「今日は九日です」(きょうはここのかです). The second meaning refers to a period of nine days, as in 'a nine-day trip'「九日の旅行」(ここのかのりょこう). This word is commonly used in contexts involving dates or durations. For example: the event is on the ninth「イベントは九日です」(イベントはここのかです). We stayed for nine days「九日滞在しました」(ここのかたいざいしました).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

1

Frequency

19

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Ten days, Tenth

Reading

Kanji

十Ten 日Day, Sun

Explanation

The Japanese noun '十日 (とおか)' has two primary meanings. First, it refers to the 'tenth day' of the month, as in 'the tenth of January'「一月十日」(いちがつとおか). Second, it can also refer to a 'ten-day period', often used in contexts like weather forecasts or schedules, such as 'a ten-day forecast'「十日予報」(とおかよほう). The word is commonly used in dates and time-related expressions. For example: Today is the tenth「今日は十日です」(きょうはとおかです). The event lasts for ten days「そのイベントは十日間続きます」(そのイベントはとおかかんつづきます).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

1

Frequency

20

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Twentieth, Twenty days

Reading

Kanji

二Two 十Ten 日Day, Sun

Explanation

The Japanese noun '二十日 (はつか)' has two distinct meanings. First, it can refer to the 20th day of the month, as in 'today is the 20th'「今日は二十日です」(きょうははつかです). Second, it can mean a period of 20 days, as in 'I will be away for 20 days'「二十日間留守にします」(はつかかんるすにします). The reading 'はつか' is specific to this word and should not be confused with other readings of the kanji 二十 (にじゅう) meaning 'twenty'. This word is commonly used in dates and time-related expressions.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

1

Frequency

21

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Counter

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese suffix 'つ (tsu)' is a traditional counter used for counting objects, items, or things in general. It is one of the most versatile counters in Japanese and can be used when the specific counter for an item is unknown or when counting abstract or miscellaneous items. It is typically used for numbers 1 through 9, after which other counters or generic terms are used. For example: one thing「一つ」(ひとつ), two things「二つ」(ふたつ), three things「三つ」(みっつ). Note that this counter is informal and often replaced by more specific counters in formal contexts. Example sentences: I have three apples「りんごを三つ持っています」(りんごをみっつもっています). There are five books on the table「テーブルの上に本が五つあります」(テーブルのうえにほんがいつつあります).

Part Of Speech

suffix

Frequency

22

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

One

Reading

Kanji

一One

Explanation

The Japanese noun '一つ (ひとつ)' means 'one'. It is used to indicate the number one or a single item. This word is often used in counting objects or when referring to a single instance of something. For example: I have one apple「りんごを一つ持っています」(りんごをひとつもっています). There is one book on the table「テーブルの上に本が一つあります」(テーブルのうえにほんがひとつあります). It can also be used in a more abstract sense, such as 'one of the reasons'「理由の一つ」(りゆうのひとつ). Note that '一つ' is part of the native Japanese counting system, which is often used for general objects and abstract concepts, as opposed to the Sino-Japanese counting system (e.g., 一 (いち)) which is used for specific categories like dates, money, or time.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

1

Frequency

23

Composition

kanji-hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Two

Reading

Kanji

二Two

Explanation

The Japanese noun '二つ (ふたつ)' means 'two'. It is used to count or refer to two items, objects, or things. This word is part of the native Japanese counting system, which is often used for general counting or when the number of items is small. For example: I have two apples「りんごが二つある」(りんごがふたつある). There are two books on the table「テーブルの上に本が二つある」(テーブルのうえにほんがふたつある). Note that '二つ' is used for counting inanimate objects or abstract things, and it is distinct from the Sino-Japanese numeral '二 (に)' which is used in more formal or specific contexts.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

1

Frequency

24

Composition

kanji-hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Three

Reading

Kanji

三Three

Explanation

The Japanese noun '三つ (みっつ)' means 'three'. It is used to refer to the number three, often in the context of counting objects or items. This word is part of the traditional Japanese counting system, which uses specific counters for different types of objects. For example: there are three apples「りんごが三つある」(りんごがみっつある). I bought three books「本を三つ買った」(ほんをみっつかった). It's important to note that '三つ' is used for counting general items, and there are other counters for specific objects, such as '三人 (さんにん)' for counting people.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

1

Frequency

25

Composition

kanji-hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Four

Reading

Kanji

四Four

Explanation

The Japanese noun '四つ (よっつ)' means 'four'. It is a traditional way of counting items, often used in contexts like counting objects, ages, or in traditional settings. This term is part of the native Japanese counting system (as opposed to the Sino-Japanese system). For example: there are four apples「りんごが四つある」(りんごがよっつある). The child is four years old「その子は四つです」(そのこはよっつです). Note that '四つ' is less commonly used in modern, everyday conversation, where '四 (よん)' is more prevalent.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

1

Frequency

26

Composition

kanji-hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Five

Reading

Kanji

五Five

Explanation

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

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

1

Frequency

27

Composition

kanji-hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Six

Reading

Kanji

六Six

Explanation

The Japanese noun '六つ (むっつ)' means 'six'. It is a traditional way of counting items or objects, often used for general counting or when referring to age. This form is part of the native Japanese counting system, which is distinct from the Sino-Japanese counting system (e.g., 六 (ろく)). For example: there are six apples「りんごが六つある」(りんごがむっつある). The child is six years old「その子は六つです」(そのこはむっつです). This term is commonly used in everyday conversation, especially in informal contexts.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

1

Frequency

28

Composition

kanji-hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Seven

Reading

Kanji

七Seven

Explanation

The Japanese noun '七つ (ななつ)' means 'seven'. It is used to refer to the number seven, often in contexts involving counting objects, ages, or items. This term is part of the traditional Japanese counting system, which uses specific counters for different types of objects. For example: There are seven apples「りんごが七つある」(りんごがななつある). The child is seven years old「その子は七つです」(そのこはななつです). Note that '七つ' is often used in more traditional or formal settings, and in modern contexts, the number '七 (なな)' is more commonly used.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

1

Frequency

29

Composition

kanji-hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Eight

Reading

Kanji

八Eight

Explanation

The Japanese noun '八つ (やっつ)' means 'eight'. It is a traditional way of counting items, often used for objects that do not have a specific counter or for general counting. This term is part of the native Japanese counting system, which is different from the Sino-Japanese system (e.g., 八 (はち)). For example: there are eight apples「りんごが八つある」(りんごがやっつある). I bought eight books「本を八つ買いました」(ほんをやっつかいました). Note that '八つ' is typically used for counting objects in a more traditional or casual context, and it is less common in modern, formal settings.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

1

Frequency

30

Composition

kanji-hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Nine

Reading

Kanji

九Nine

Explanation

The Japanese noun '九つ (ここのつ)' means 'nine'. This word is specifically used to count items or objects, and it is part of the traditional Japanese counting system for general objects (as opposed to the Sino-Japanese system used for numbers in isolation or specific categories). It is often used in contexts where items are being counted individually, such as in shopping or when describing quantities. For example: there are nine apples「りんごが九つある」(りんごがここのつある). I bought nine books「本を九つ買いました」(ほんをここのつかいました). Note that '九つ' is typically used for counting objects, while '九 (きゅう)' is used for abstract numbers or specific counting systems like time or age.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

1

Frequency

31

Composition

kanji-hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Day

Reading

Kanji

曜Weekday 日Day, Sun

Explanation

The Japanese noun '曜日 (ようび)' refers to the days of the week. It is commonly used to specify or inquire about a particular day, such as Monday, Tuesday, etc. For example: What day is it today?「今日は何曜日ですか？」(きょうはなんようびですか？). Monday is the first day of the week「月曜日は週の最初の日です」(げつようびはしゅうのさいしょのひです). The word '曜日' is often preceded by the specific day's name, like '月曜日 (げつようび)' for Monday, '火曜日 (かようび)' for Tuesday, and so on.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N4

Kanji Grade

2

Frequency

32

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Sunday

Reading

Kanji

日Day, Sun 曜Weekday

Explanation

The Japanese noun '日曜日 (にちようび)' means 'Sunday'. It is one of the days of the week in the Japanese calendar. This word is commonly used in everyday conversation to refer to the first day of the week or the day of rest. For example: I will go to the park on Sunday「日曜日に公園に行きます」(にちようびにこうえんにいきます). Sunday is a holiday「日曜日は休日です」(にちようびはきゅうじつです). The word '日曜日' is often abbreviated to just '日曜 (にちよう)' in casual speech.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N4

Kanji Grade

2

Frequency

33

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Saturday

Reading

Kanji

土Soil 曜Weekday 日Day, Sun

Explanation

The Japanese noun '土曜日 (どようび)' means 'Saturday'. It is one of the days of the week in the Japanese calendar. The word is composed of the kanji '土' meaning 'earth' or 'soil', and '曜日' meaning 'day of the week'. In Japan, Saturday is often considered part of the weekend, and many people have the day off from work or school. Example sentences: I will go shopping on Saturday「土曜日に買い物に行きます」(どようびにかいものにいきます). Saturday is my favorite day「土曜日は私の一番好きな日です」(どようびはわたしのいちばんすきなひです).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N4

Kanji Grade

2

Frequency

34

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Friday

Reading

Kanji

金Gold 曜Weekday 日Day, Sun

Explanation

The Japanese noun '金曜日 (きんようび)' means 'Friday'. It is one of the days of the week in the Japanese calendar. The word is composed of three kanji: 金 (きん, meaning 'gold' or 'metal'), 曜 (よう, meaning 'day of the week'), and 日 (び, meaning 'day'). Together, they form the word for Friday. Example sentences: Today is Friday「今日は金曜日です」(きょうはきんようびです). I have a meeting on Friday「金曜日に会議があります」(きんようびにかいぎがあります).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N4

Kanji Grade

2

Frequency

35

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Monday

Reading

Kanji

月Moon, Month 曜Weekday 日Day, Sun

Explanation

The Japanese noun '月曜日 (げつようび)' means 'Monday'. It is one of the days of the week in the Japanese calendar. The word is composed of three kanji: 月 (moon), 曜 (day of the week), and 日 (day). In Japan, the week starts on Monday, making it the first day of the workweek. Example sentences: I have a meeting on Monday「月曜日に会議があります」(げつようびにかいぎがあります). Monday is the busiest day of the week「月曜日は一週間で一番忙しい日です」(げつようびはいっしゅうかんでいちばんいそがしいひです).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N4

Kanji Grade

2

Frequency

36

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Thursday

Reading

Kanji

木Tree, Wood 曜Weekday 日Day, Sun

Explanation

The Japanese noun '木曜日 (もくようび)' means 'Thursday'. It is one of the days of the week in the Japanese calendar. The word is composed of three kanji: 木 (もく), meaning 'tree' or 'wood', 曜 (よう), meaning 'day of the week', and 日 (び), meaning 'day'. Together, they form '木曜日', which specifically refers to Thursday. Example sentences: I have a meeting on Thursday「木曜日に会議があります」(もくようびにかいぎがあります). Let's meet next Thursday「来週の木曜日に会いましょう」(らいしゅうのもくようびにあいましょう).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N4

Kanji Grade

2

Frequency

37

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Tuesday

Reading

Kanji

火Fire 曜Weekday 日Day, Sun

Explanation

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

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N4

Kanji Grade

2

Frequency

38

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Wednesday

Reading

Kanji

水Water 曜Weekday 日Day, Sun

Explanation

The Japanese noun '水曜日 (すいようび)' refers to 'Wednesday', the third day of the week. It is part of the seven-day week system used in Japan, which is based on the same planetary system as in many other cultures. The word is a combination of '水 (すい)', meaning 'water', and '曜日 (ようび)', meaning 'day of the week'. This naming convention is derived from the ancient Chinese system of associating each day with one of the five classical elements. Example sentences: Today is Wednesday「今日は水曜日です」(きょうはすいようびです). The meeting is scheduled for Wednesday「会議は水曜日に予定されています」(かいぎはすいようびによていされています).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N4

Kanji Grade

2

Frequency

39

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

I

Reading

Kanji

私Private, Me

Explanation

The Japanese pronoun '私 (わたし)' is a common way to refer to oneself, equivalent to 'I' in English. It is gender-neutral and widely used in both formal and informal contexts. However, it is more commonly used by women in casual settings, as men might opt for alternatives like '僕 (ぼく)' or '俺 (おれ)' depending on the situation. Example sentences: I am a student「私は学生です」(わたしはがくせいです). I like apples「私はりんごが好きです」(わたしはりんごがすきです). In formal settings, '私' is universally appropriate regardless of gender.

Part Of Speech

pronoun

Kanji JLPT

N4

Kanji Grade

6

Frequency

40

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

He

Reading

Kanji

彼Third person pronoun, He

Explanation

The Japanese pronoun '彼 (かれ)' means 'he'. It is used to refer to a male person in the third person. This pronoun is commonly used in both spoken and written Japanese. For example: he is my friend「彼は私の友達です」(かれはわたしのともだちです). He went to the store「彼は店に行きました」(かれはみせにいきました). It's important to note that '彼' can also be used to refer to a boyfriend in certain contexts, but this usage is less formal and more colloquial. For example: my boyfriend is kind「彼は優しい」(かれはやさしい).

Part Of Speech

pronoun

Kanji JLPT

N3

Kanji Grade

7

Frequency

41

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

What

Reading

Kanji

何What

Explanation

The Japanese pronoun '何 (なに)' means 'what'. It is used to ask questions about things, objects, or abstract concepts. It is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, such as asking for information, clarification, or identification. For example: What is this?「これは何？」(これはなに？). What are you doing?「何をしているの？」(なにをしているの？). It can also be used in expressions like '何でも (なにでも)' meaning 'anything' or 'whatever'. Note that '何' can also be read as 'なん' in certain contexts, such as when followed by certain particles or in specific phrases, but the meaning remains the same.

Part Of Speech

pronoun

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

2

Frequency

42

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

That

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese determiner 'その (その)' means 'that'. It is used to indicate something that is close to the listener or something that has already been mentioned in the conversation. It is often used to refer to specific objects, people, or ideas. For example: that book is interesting「その本は面白い」(そのほんはおもしろい). I want to eat that cake「そのケーキを食べたい」(そのケーキをたべたい). 'その' is typically followed by a noun, as in 'その人 (そのひと) (that person)' or 'その時 (そのとき) (that time)'. It is important to note that 'その' is used for things that are not close to the speaker but are close to the listener or have been previously mentioned.

Part Of Speech

determiner

Frequency

43

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

That

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese pronoun 'それ (それ)' means 'that'. It is used to refer to something that is close to the listener but not the speaker. It is often used in conversations to point out objects or ideas that have been previously mentioned or are within the listener's vicinity. For example: That is my book「それは私の本です」(それはわたしのほんです). I want that「それが欲しい」(それがほしい). It is important to note that 'それ' is used for objects that are neither too close to the speaker nor too far from both the speaker and the listener, making it a middle-distance demonstrative pronoun.

Part Of Speech

pronoun

Frequency

44

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

This

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese determiner 'この (この)' means 'this'. It is used to indicate something close to the speaker, either physically or conceptually. It is always followed by a noun and cannot stand alone. For example: this book is interesting「この本は面白い」(このほんはおもしろい). This person is my friend「この人は私の友達です」(このひとはわたしのともだちです). Unlike English, 'この' does not change form based on the noun it modifies. It is important to note that 'この' is used for things that are close to the speaker, while 'その (その)' is used for things close to the listener, and 'あの (あの)' for things distant from both.

Part Of Speech

determiner

Frequency

45

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

This

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese pronoun 'これ (これ)' means 'this'. It is used to refer to something that is close to the speaker, either physically or in terms of relevance. 'これ' is often used when the object is within the speaker's immediate vicinity or when the speaker is holding the object. For example: This is my book「これは私の本です」(これはわたしのほんです). What is this?「これは何ですか？」(これはなんですか？). It is important to note that 'これ' is used for objects, not for people. For people, the pronoun 'この人 (このひと)' or 'この方 (このかた)' would be more appropriate.

Part Of Speech

pronoun

Frequency

46

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Do

Reading

Kanji

為Do, Sake

Explanation

The Japanese verb '為る (する)' means 'to do'. It is one of the most versatile and commonly used verbs in Japanese, often functioning as a placeholder verb for actions or activities. It can be used in a wide range of contexts, from performing tasks to describing states or conditions. For example: I will do my homework「宿題をする」(しゅくだいをする). What are you doing?「何をしているの？」(なにをしているの？). Additionally, 'する' is often used in compound verbs or to nominalize actions, such as '勉強する (べんきょうする)' (to study) or '旅行する (りょこうする)' (to travel). It is also used in many idiomatic expressions and set phrases.

Part Of Speech

verb

Kanji JLPT

N1

Kanji Grade

7

Frequency

47

Composition

kanji-hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Exist

Reading

Kanji

居Reside, Be

Explanation

The Japanese verb '居る (いる)' means 'to exist' or 'to be present' and is primarily used for living things, such as people or animals. It is often used to indicate the presence or existence of someone or something animate. For example: There is a cat here「ここに猫が居る」(ここにねこがいる). My friend is at home「友達が家に居る」(ともだちがいえにいる). Note that '居る' is written in hiragana as 'いる' in modern usage, and it is distinct from 'ある', which is used for inanimate objects. This verb is also commonly used in the progressive tense to indicate ongoing actions, such as '食べている (たべている)' (is eating).

Part Of Speech

verb

Kanji JLPT

N3

Kanji Grade

5

Frequency

48

Composition

kanji-hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Exist

Reading

Kanji

有Exist

Explanation

The Japanese verb '有る (ある)' means 'to exist' or 'to have'. It is primarily used to indicate the existence of inanimate objects or abstract concepts. Unlike 'いる (iru)', which is used for living things, 'ある' is specifically for non-living things. For example: There is a book on the table「テーブルの上に本がある」(てーぶるのうえにほんがある). I have time「時間がある」(じかんがある). It can also be used to express possession in a general sense, such as 'I have a car'「車がある」(くるまがある). Note that 'ある' is often used in negative forms to indicate absence, like 'There is no money'「お金がない」(おかねがない).

Part Of Speech

verb

Kanji JLPT

N4

Kanji Grade

3

Frequency

49

Composition

kanji-hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Say

Reading

Kanji

言Say

Explanation

The Japanese verb '言う (いう)' means 'to say' or 'to tell'. It is used to express speaking or conveying information. This verb is highly versatile and can be used in various contexts, such as quoting someone, expressing thoughts, or giving instructions. For example: He said he will come「彼は来ると言った」(かれはくるといった). What did you say?「何と言いましたか？」(なんといいましたか？). It can also be used in idiomatic expressions, such as 'そう言う (そういう)' meaning 'that kind of' or 'such'. Note that '言う' is often used in its polite form '言います (いいます)' in formal situations.

Part Of Speech

verb

Kanji JLPT

N4

Kanji Grade

2

Frequency

50

Composition

kanji-hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Thing, Matter

Reading

Kanji

事Thing

Explanation

The Japanese noun '事 (こと)' is a versatile word that can mean 'thing' or 'matter'. It is often used to refer to abstract concepts, events, or situations rather than physical objects. For example: That is an important matter「それは大事な事です」(それはだいじなことです). I have something to tell you「あなたに言いたい事があります」(あなたにいいたいことがあります). The word '事' is commonly used in various expressions and idioms, such as '事にする (ことにする)' meaning 'to decide to do something' or '事になる (ことになる)' meaning 'it has been decided that'. It is important to note that '事' is often used in formal or written contexts, while '物 (もの)' is more commonly used for physical objects in everyday speech.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N4

Kanji Grade

3

Frequency

51

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Become

Reading

Kanji

成Become

Explanation

The Japanese verb '成る (なる)' means 'to become'. It is used to indicate a change in state, condition, or quality. This verb is highly versatile and can be used in various contexts, such as describing natural changes, personal transformations, or the outcome of events. For example: I want to become a teacher「先生になりたい」(せんせいになりたい). The leaves have turned red「葉っぱが赤くなった」(はっぱがあかくなった). It's important to note that 'なる' is often used with adjectives or nouns to describe the resulting state, as in '大きくなる (おおきくなる) (to become big)' or '静かになる (しずかになる) (to become quiet)'.

Part Of Speech

verb

Kanji JLPT

N3

Kanji Grade

4

Frequency

52

Composition

kanji-hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Non existent

Reading

Kanji

無Nothing

Explanation

The Japanese adjective '無い (ない)' means 'nonexistent' or 'not present'. It is used to indicate the absence of something or to negate the existence of an object, state, or condition. This word is often used in everyday conversation and can be attached to nouns or used independently. For example: There is no money「お金がない」(おかねがない). I have no time「時間がない」(じかんがない). It can also be used to express the lack of necessity or obligation, as in 'You don't have to go'「行かなくてもいい」(いかなくてもいい). Note that 'ない' is often used in negative sentences and can be combined with verbs to form negative conjugations, such as '食べない' (たべない) meaning 'do not eat'.

Part Of Speech

adjective

Kanji JLPT

N0

Kanji Grade

4

Frequency

53

Composition

kanji-hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Honorific

Reading

Kanji

様Way, Form

Explanation

The Japanese suffix '様 (さま)' is an honorific used to show respect or politeness towards someone. It is more formal than the common suffix 'さん' and is often used in formal settings, business contexts, or when addressing someone of higher status. For example: Thank you, Mr. Tanaka「田中様、ありがとうございます」(たなかさま、ありがとうございます). This is for the customer「お客様へのものです」(おきゃくさまへのものです). It can also be used in written correspondence or on packages to show respect. While it is most commonly attached to names, it can also be used with titles or roles, such as 'お客様 (おきゃくさま)' (honored guest/customer).

Part Of Speech

suffix

Kanji JLPT

N3

Kanji Grade

3

Frequency

54

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Yen

Reading

Kanji

円Circle, Yen

Explanation

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

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

1

Frequency

55

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Thing

Reading

Kanji

物Thing

Explanation

The Japanese noun '物 (もの)' means 'thing'. It is a very general term used to refer to objects, items, or abstract concepts. This word is often used in everyday conversation and can be applied to a wide range of contexts. For example: This thing is heavy「この物は重い」(このものはおもい). I bought a new thing「新しい物を買った」(あたらしいものをかった). It can also be used in more abstract ways, such as in the phrase '物の哀れ (もののあわれ)', which refers to the pathos or sadness of things. The word '物' is versatile and can be combined with other words to form compound nouns, such as '食べ物 (たべもの)' (food) or '飲み物 (のみもの)' (drink).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N4

Kanji Grade

3

Frequency

56

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Person

Reading

Kanji

人Person

Explanation

The Japanese noun '人 (ひと)' means 'person'. It is a general term used to refer to a human being, regardless of gender or age. This word is commonly used in various contexts, such as describing someone's character, occupation, or relationship to others. For example: that person is kind「あの人は優しい」(あのひとはやさしい). I met a new person today「今日新しい人に会った」(きょうあたらしいひとにあった). It can also be used in compound words to specify types of people, such as '外国人 (がいこくじん) (foreigner)' or '先生 (せんせい) (teacher)'. Note that '人' can sometimes be pronounced differently depending on the context, such as 'じん' in '日本人 (にほんじん) (Japanese person)'.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

1

Frequency

57

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Sometimes

Reading

Kanji

時Time, Hour

Explanation

The Japanese adverb '時々 (ときどき)' means 'sometimes'. It is used to indicate that an action or event occurs occasionally, but not regularly or frequently. This adverb can be placed at the beginning or middle of a sentence, depending on the emphasis. For example: I sometimes go to the park「時々公園に行きます」(ときどきこうえんにいきます). She sometimes reads books「彼女は時々本を読みます」(かのじょはときどきほんをよみます). It is a versatile word that can be used in both casual and formal contexts.

Part Of Speech

adverb

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

2

Frequency

58

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Honorific

Reading

Kanji

御Honorable, General honorific term

Explanation

The Japanese prefix '御 (お)' is an honorific prefix used to show respect or politeness. It is commonly attached to nouns, particularly in formal or polite contexts. This prefix does not change the core meaning of the word but elevates its tone. For example: tea「お茶」(おちゃ), money「お金」(おかね). It is also used in set phrases like 'thank you'「ありがとうございます」(ありがとうございます), where '御' is implied in the politeness of the expression. Note that '御' can also be read as 'ご' in some cases, such as 'ご飯 (ごはん)' (meal/rice), but the meaning remains the same.

Part Of Speech

prefix

Kanji JLPT

N3

Kanji Grade

7

Frequency

59

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Like

Reading

Kanji

的Target

Explanation

The Japanese suffix '的 (てき)' is used to turn nouns into adjectives, giving the meaning of 'like' or 'related to'. It is often used to describe something that has the characteristics or qualities of the noun it is attached to. For example: scientific「科学的」(かがくてき). This suffix is very versatile and can be used with a wide range of nouns to create new adjectives. Another example: romantic「ロマンチック的」(ロマンチックてき). It's important to note that '的' is not used alone as a word but always as a suffix attached to a noun.

Part Of Speech

suffix

Kanji JLPT

N0

Kanji Grade

4

Frequency

60

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Come

Reading

Kanji

来Come

Explanation

The Japanese verb '来る (くる)' means 'to come'. It is used to indicate movement towards the speaker or the location of the speaker. This verb is highly versatile and can be used in various contexts, such as inviting someone, indicating arrival, or expressing future events. For example: Please come to my house「私の家に来てください」(わたしのいえにきてください). He will come tomorrow「彼は明日来ます」(かれはあしたきます). The verb '来る' is irregular and conjugates differently from other verbs, so it's important to pay attention to its forms in different tenses and politeness levels.

Part Of Speech

verb

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

2

Frequency

61

Composition

kanji-hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Think

Reading

Kanji

思Think

Explanation

The Japanese verb '思う (おもう)' means 'to think'. It is used to express thoughts, opinions, or feelings about something. This verb is often used in casual and formal contexts to convey personal beliefs or impressions. For example: I think it's interesting「それは面白いと思う」(それはおもしろいとおもう). He thinks she is kind「彼は彼女が優しいと思う」(かれはかのじょがやさしいとおもう). It can also be used to express uncertainty or speculation, as in 'I think it might rain「雨が降ると思う」(あめがふるとおもう)'. Note that '思う' is often paired with particles like 'と' or 'を' to indicate the object of thought.

Part Of Speech

verb

Kanji JLPT

N4

Kanji Grade

2

Frequency

62

Composition

kanji-hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Go

Reading

Kanji

行Go

Explanation

The Japanese verb '行く (いく)' means 'to go'. It is used to indicate movement from one place to another. This verb is highly versatile and can be used in various contexts, such as physical movement, attending events, or even abstract concepts like progress. For example: I will go to the park「公園に行く」(こうえんにいく). She goes to school every day「彼女は毎日学校に行く」(かのじょはまいにちがっこうにいく). Additionally, '行く' can be used in compound verbs and expressions, such as '出かける (でかける)' meaning 'to go out' or 'to leave'. It's important to note that '行く' can also imply a sense of continuation or progression, as in 'このまま行く (このままでいく)' meaning 'to continue as is'.

Part Of Speech

verb

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

2

Frequency

63

Composition

kanji-hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

See

Reading

Kanji

見See

Explanation

The Japanese verb '見る (みる)' means 'to see' or 'to look at'. It is used to describe the act of visually perceiving something or observing something intentionally. This verb is very common and can be used in various contexts, such as watching TV, looking at scenery, or observing someone's actions. For example: I see a bird「鳥を見る」(とりをみる). She watches TV every night「彼女は毎晩テレビを見る」(かのじょはまいばんテレビをみる). Additionally, '見る' can also imply examining or checking something, as in 'I will check the document'「書類を見る」(しょるいをみる). It is important to note that '見る' is often used with the particle 'を' to indicate the object being seen or looked at.

Part Of Speech

verb

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

1

Frequency

64

Composition

kanji-hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Good

Reading

Kanji

良Good

Explanation

The Japanese adjective '良い (よい)' means 'good'. It is a versatile word used to describe something that is of high quality, favorable, or desirable. It can be applied to a wide range of contexts, from describing objects and situations to expressing approval or satisfaction. For example: This is a good book「これは良い本です」(これはよいほんです). The weather is good today「今日は天気が良い」(きょうはてんきがよい). Additionally, '良い' can sometimes be used to express permission, as in 'It's good to go'「行っても良い」(いってもよい). Note that '良い' is often pronounced as 'いい' in casual speech, though the meaning remains the same.

Part Of Speech

adjective

Kanji JLPT

N3

Kanji Grade

4

Frequency

65

Composition

kanji-hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Moon

Reading

Kanji

月Moon, Month

Explanation

The Japanese noun '月 (つき)' primarily means 'moon'. It refers to Earth's natural satellite and is commonly used in various contexts related to the moon, such as its appearance, phases, or influence. For example: The moon is beautiful tonight「今夜の月は美しい」(こんやのつきはうつくしい). I saw the full moon「満月を見た」(まんげつをみた). Additionally, '月' can also mean 'month' in certain contexts, but this is a separate and distinct meaning. For example: Next month is busy「来月は忙しい」(らいげつはいそがしい). However, the primary and most common meaning of '月 (つき)' is 'moon'.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

1

Frequency

66

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Can, Be made

Reading

Kanji

出Exit 来Come

Explanation

The Japanese verb '出来る (できる)' has two primary meanings. The first is 'can', indicating the ability or possibility to do something. For example: I can speak Japanese「日本語ができる」(にほんごができる). The second meaning is 'be made', referring to something being created or produced. For example: This cake was made by my mother「このケーキは母によってできた」(このケーキはははによってできた). The verb is highly versatile and often used in daily conversation to express capability, completion, or the state of being made. It is also commonly used in potential forms to indicate ability, such as '食べられる (たべられる)' (can eat).

Part Of Speech

verb

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

2

Frequency

67

Composition

kanji-hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Money, Metal

Reading

Kanji

金Gold

Explanation

The Japanese noun '金 (かね)' has two primary meanings: 'money' and 'metal'. When referring to 'money', it is used in contexts involving currency, wealth, or financial transactions. For example: I need money「お金が必要です」(おかねがひつようです). When referring to 'metal', it describes the material itself, such as gold, silver, or other metallic substances. For example: This ring is made of metal「この指輪は金属でできています」(このゆびわはきんぞくでできています). The meaning depends heavily on the context in which it is used.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

1

Frequency

68

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Time

Reading

Kanji

時Time, Hour

Explanation

The Japanese noun '時 (とき)' primarily means 'time'. It refers to a specific point or period in time, and can be used in various contexts to indicate when something happens. For example: when I was a child「私が子供の時」(わたしがこどものとき). It's also used to express moments or occasions, such as: it's time to eat「食べる時です」(たべるときです). Additionally, '時' can be used in more abstract ways, such as in the phrase 'in times of trouble'「困った時」(こまったとき). This word is versatile and appears in many common expressions and idioms.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

2

Frequency

69

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Direction, Side

Reading

Kanji

方Direction

Explanation

The Japanese noun '方 (ほう)' can mean 'direction' or 'side'. It is often used to indicate a physical direction, a choice between options, or a comparison between two things. For example: that direction is dangerous「あの方は危ない」(あのほうはあぶない). I prefer this side「こちらの方が好きです」(こちらのほうがすきです). When used in comparisons, it often follows the structure 'Xの方がYより...' to mean 'X is more... than Y'. For example: apples are more delicious than oranges「りんごの方がオレンジより美味しい」(りんごのほうがオレンジよりおいしい). Note that '方' can also be used to refer to a person in a polite way, but this is a different word with the same kanji and reading, so it is not included here.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N4

Kanji Grade

2

Frequency

70

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Mr, Ms

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese suffix 'さん (san)' is a polite and commonly used honorific title added to a person's name or title to show respect. It is gender-neutral and can be used for both men and women. It is appropriate in most social situations, whether formal or informal. For example: Mr. Tanaka「田中さん」(たなかさん). Ms. Yamada「山田さん」(やまださん). It can also be used with occupations, such as 'teacher' (先生, せんせい) becoming 'teacher-san' (先生さん, せんせいさん). However, it is not used with one's own name or when referring to oneself. The nuance of 'さん' conveys politeness and social distance, making it a safe choice in most interactions.

Part Of Speech

suffix

Frequency

71

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

So, Like that

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese adverb 'そう (そう)' can mean 'so' or 'like that'. It is often used to indicate agreement, confirmation, or to describe something in a particular way. For example: Is that so?「そうですか？」(そうですか？). It looks like that「そう見える」(そうみえる). This adverb is versatile and can be used in various contexts to express similarity, manner, or degree. It's important to note that 'そう' can also be used in combination with other words to form phrases like 'そうだ (そうだ)' meaning 'that's right' or 'そういう (そういう)' meaning 'that kind of'.

Part Of Speech

adverb

Frequency

72

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Year

Reading

Kanji

年Year

Explanation

The Japanese noun '年 (とし)' primarily means 'year'. It refers to a period of 12 months or the time it takes for the Earth to orbit the Sun. This word is commonly used in various contexts, such as discussing age, calendar years, or durations. For example: I am 20 years old「私は20歳です」(わたしははたちです). This year is 2023「今年は2023年です」(ことしはにせんにじゅうさんねんです). It's important to note that '年' can also be used in compound words, such as '去年 (きょねん)' (last year) or '来年 (らいねん)' (next year).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

1

Frequency

73

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Inside, Middle

Reading

Kanji

中Center

Explanation

The Japanese noun '中 (なか)' has two primary meanings: 'inside' and 'middle'. When used to mean 'inside', it refers to the interior or inner part of something, such as a room, box, or group. For example: inside the box「箱の中」(はこのなか). When used to mean 'middle', it refers to the central part of something, such as a period of time or a physical space. For example: in the middle of the night「夜中に」(よなかに). The word is versatile and can be used in various contexts, both literal and figurative. Another example: inside the group「グループの中」(グループのなか).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

1

Frequency

74

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Place

Reading

Kanji

所Place

Explanation

The Japanese noun '所 (ところ)' primarily means 'place' or 'location'. It refers to a specific area or spot, either physical or abstract. It can also be used to indicate a point in time or a situation. For example: This is a quiet place「ここは静かな所です」(ここはしずかなところです). I went to a beautiful place「私は美しい所に行きました」(わたしはうつくしいところにいきました). Additionally, '所' can be used in expressions like '今の所 (いまのところ)', meaning 'for now' or 'at the moment', indicating a temporal context rather than a physical one.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N3

Kanji Grade

3

Frequency

75

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Base, Rely

Reading

Kanji

拠Basis, Based on

Explanation

The Japanese verb '拠る (よる)' has two distinct meanings. The first meaning is 'to base' or 'to be based on,' indicating that something is founded or established on a particular source or principle. For example: This theory is based on solid evidence「この理論は確かな証拠に拠る」(このりろんはたしかなしょうこによる). The second meaning is 'to rely' or 'to depend on,' suggesting that something or someone is dependent on another for support or existence. For example: We rely on your help「私たちはあなたの助けに拠る」(わたしたちはあなたのたすけによる). The verb is often used in formal or written contexts and can be combined with nouns to form compound expressions, such as '根拠 (こんきょ) (basis)' or '依拠 (いきょ) (reliance).'

Part Of Speech

verb

Kanji JLPT

N1

Kanji Grade

7

Frequency

76

Composition

kanji-hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Now

Reading

Kanji

今Now

Explanation

The Japanese adverb '今 (いま)' means 'now'. It is used to indicate the present moment or current time. This word is commonly used in everyday conversation to refer to the immediate present. For example: I am busy now「今忙しいです」(いまいそがしいです). What are you doing now?「今何をしていますか？」(いまなにをしていますか？). It can also be used in combination with other time expressions to specify a particular time frame, such as 'right now' or 'at this moment'. For example: I am studying right now「今勉強しています」(いまべんきょうしています).

Part Of Speech

adverb

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

2

Frequency

77

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Plural

Reading

Kanji

達Attain, Plural

Explanation

The Japanese suffix '達 (たち)' is used to indicate plurality or a group of people. It is commonly attached to nouns referring to people, such as names, pronouns, or titles, to denote a collective. For example: the children「子供達」(こどもたち). my friends「私達の友達」(わたしたちのともだち). It is important to note that '達' is not used for non-human objects or animals. The nuance is more about grouping or collectivity rather than strict grammatical plurality. This suffix is often used in formal or polite contexts.

Part Of Speech

suffix

Kanji JLPT

N3

Kanji Grade

4

Frequency

78

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

This month

Reading

Kanji

今Now 月Moon, Month

Explanation

The Japanese noun'今月(こんげつ)'means' this month'.It refers to the current month and is used to describe events, plans,or occurrences that are specifically happening within the current month.For example: I will travel this month「今月旅行します」(こんげつりょこうします).The deadline is this month「締め切りは今月です」(しめきりはこんげつです).This word is commonly used in both casual and formal contexts to talk about time-related matters within the current month.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

2

Frequency

79

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Sake, Benefit

Reading

Kanji

為Do, Sake

Explanation

The Japanese noun '為 (ため)' has two primary meanings. The first is 'benefit', referring to something that is advantageous or good for someone or something. For example: for the benefit of the children「子供の為に」(こどものために). The second meaning is 'sake', indicating the purpose or reason behind an action. For example: for the sake of peace「平和の為に」(へいわのために). This word is often used in contexts where the focus is on the purpose or advantage of an action, and it can be paired with particles like 'に' to indicate direction or purpose. It's important to note that '為' can also be written in hiragana as 'ため', and the meaning remains the same.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N1

Kanji Grade

7

Frequency

80

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

This week

Reading

Kanji

今Now 週Week

Explanation

The Japanese noun '今週 (こんしゅう)' means 'this week'. It refers to the current week, starting from Sunday and ending on Saturday. This word is commonly used in daily conversations and formal settings to discuss events, schedules, or plans occurring within the current week. For example: I have a meeting this week「今週会議があります」(こんしゅうかいぎがあります). This week's weather is nice「今週の天気はいいです」(こんしゅうのてんきはいいです). It is important to note that '今週' is often used with time-related expressions, such as '今週中 (こんしゅうじゅう)' meaning 'within this week'.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N4

Kanji Grade

2

Frequency

81

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

How

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese adverb 'どう' means 'how'. It is commonly used to ask about the manner, condition, or state of something. It can also be used to inquire about someone's opinion or feelings. For example: How is it?「どう？」(どう？). How do you do this?「これをどうやるの？」(これをどうやるの？). How are you feeling?「気分はどう？」(きぶんはどう？). The word 'どう' is versatile and can be used in various contexts to ask about methods, conditions, or opinions.

Part Of Speech

adverb

Frequency

82

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Self

Reading

Kanji

自Self 分Minute, Part

Explanation

The Japanese noun '自分 (じぶん)' means 'self' and is used to refer to oneself in a general sense. It can be used in various contexts to indicate the speaker or the person being referred to. It is often used in reflexive contexts or when emphasizing one's own actions or feelings. For example: I did it myself「自分でやりました」(じぶんでやりました). He always thinks about himself「彼はいつも自分のことを考えている」(かれはいつもじぶんのことをかんがえている). Note that '自分' can sometimes be used to refer to others in certain contexts, especially in group settings or when speaking about someone in a respectful manner.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N0

Kanji Grade

2

Frequency

83

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Japan

Reading

Kanji

日Day, Sun 本Book, Origin

Explanation

The proper noun '日本 (にっぽん)' refers to the country of Japan. It is one of the two common ways to refer to Japan in Japanese, the other being '日本 (にほん)'. The reading 'にっぽん' is often used in formal contexts, such as in the name of the national airline '日本航空 (にっぽんこうくう)' or in the phrase '日本一 (にっぽんいち)', meaning 'the best in Japan'. Example sentences: I live in Japan「私は日本に住んでいます」(わたしはにっぽんにすんでいます). Japan is a beautiful country「日本は美しい国です」(にっぽんはうつくしいくにです).

Part Of Speech

proper noun

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

1

Frequency

84

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Etc

Reading

Kanji

等Equal

Explanation

The Japanese suffix '等 (とう)' is used to indicate a list of items or examples, similar to 'etc.' or 'and so on' in English. It is often attached to nouns to imply that there are additional, unspecified items in the same category. For example: fruits like apples, oranges, etc.「りんご、オレンジ等の果物」(りんご、オレンジとうのかぶつ). books, pens, etc.「本、ペン等」(ほん、ペンとう). This suffix is commonly used in both written and spoken Japanese to avoid listing every single item explicitly. It is important to note that '等' can also be read as 'など' in some contexts, but 'とう' is the more formal reading.

Part Of Speech

suffix

Kanji JLPT

N3

Kanji Grade

3

Frequency

85

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Put away

Reading

Kanji

仕Serve 舞Dance

Explanation

The Japanese verb '仕舞う(しまう)' primarily means 'put away' or 'store'. It is used to describe the action of putting something in its proper place or out of sight, often implying that the item is being stored neatly or securely. This verb can also imply completing an action or finishing something, though this usage is less common. For example: I put away th ebooks「本を仕舞った」(ほんをしまった).She put away her toys「彼女はおもちゃを仕舞った」(かのじょはおもちゃをしまった). Note that'しまう'can also be used as an auxiliary verb to denote the completion of an action with a sense of finality, as in '食べてしまった' (たべてしまった), meaning' I ate it up' or 'I ended up eating it'.

Part Of Speech

verb

Kanji JLPT

N3

Kanji Grade

7

Frequency

86

Composition

kanji-hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Thousand

Reading

Kanji

千Thousand

Explanation

The Japanese noun '千 (せん)' means 'thousand'. It is used to denote the number 1,000. This word is commonly used in counting, dates, and quantities. For example: one thousand yen「千円」(せんえん). There are a thousand people「千人がいます」(せんにんがいます). It is also used in compound words like 'thousands of years'「千年」(せんねん). Note that '千' is often combined with other numbers to form larger numbers, such as '二千 (にせん)' for 2,000.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

1

Frequency

87

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Understand

Reading

Kanji

分Minute, Part

Explanation

The Japanese verb '分かる (わかる)' means 'to understand' or 'to comprehend'. It is used to express the realization or grasp of information, knowledge, or a situation. This verb is often used in everyday conversations to indicate that someone has understood something. For example: I understand the problem「問題が分かる」(もんだいがわかる). Do you understand Japanese?「日本語が分かりますか？」(にほんごがわかりますか？). It can also imply a sense of realization, as in 'I see' or 'I get it'. Note that '分かる' is an intransitive verb, so it does not take a direct object with the particle 'を'. Instead, it often uses 'が' to mark the subject of understanding.

Part Of Speech

verb

Kanji JLPT

N0

Kanji Grade

2

Frequency

88

Composition

kanji-hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Hold, Have

Reading

Kanji

持Hold

Explanation

The Japanese verb '持つ (もつ)' can mean 'to hold' or 'to have'. When used to mean 'to hold', it refers to physically grasping or carrying something. For example: she holds a book「彼女は本を持つ」(かのじょはほんをもつ). When used to mean 'to have', it refers to possessing or owning something. For example: I have a car「私は車を持つ」(わたしはくるまをもつ). This verb is versatile and can be used in various contexts, both literal and figurative. It's important to note that '持つ' is often used in combination with other words to form compound verbs, such as '持ち帰る (もちかえる)' (to take home).

Part Of Speech

verb

Kanji JLPT

N4

Kanji Grade

3

Frequency

89

Composition

kanji-hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Think

Reading

Kanji

考Think, Consider

Explanation

The Japanese verb '考える (かんがえる)' means 'to think'. It is used to describe the act of considering, pondering, or reflecting on something. This verb is often used in contexts where someone is contemplating an idea, making a decision, or solving a problem. For example: I will think about it「それを考えます」(それをかんがえます). He is thinking deeply「彼は深く考えている」(かれはふかくかんがえている). The verb can also be used in more abstract contexts, such as thinking about the future or considering a theory. It is a versatile and commonly used verb in Japanese.

Part Of Speech

verb

Kanji JLPT

N4

Kanji Grade

2

Frequency

90

Composition

kanji-hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Twenty

Reading

Kanji

二Two 十Ten

Explanation

The Japanese noun '二十 (にじゅう)' means 'twenty'. It is a number used to represent the quantity or age of twenty. This word is commonly used in contexts involving counting, age, or numerical references. For example: I am twenty years old「私は二十歳です」(わたしはにじゅうさいです). There are twenty books on the shelf「本棚に二十冊の本があります」(ほんだなににじゅうさつのほんがあります). The word is straightforward and primarily used in numerical contexts.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

1

Frequency

91

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Give, Do

Reading

Kanji

遣Use, Dispatch

Explanation

The Japanese verb '遣る (やる)' has two primary meanings. The first is 'to do', which is a casual and often rough way of expressing an action. For example: I'll do it「俺がやる」(おれがやる). The second meaning is 'to give', typically used when giving something to someone of lower status or to animals. For example: I'll give the dog food「犬に餌をやる」(いぬにえさをやる). Note that 'やる' is informal and can sometimes carry a rough or masculine tone, so it is often replaced with more polite alternatives like 'する' (to do) or 'あげる' (to give) in formal contexts.

Part Of Speech

verb

Kanji JLPT

N1

Kanji Grade

7

Frequency

92

Composition

kanji-hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Exit, Appear

Reading

Kanji

出Exit

Explanation

The Japanese verb '出る (でる)' has two primary meanings. The first is 'to exit' or 'to leave', referring to moving out of a place. For example: I left the house「家を出た」(いえをでた). The second meaning is 'to appear' or 'to emerge', often used when something or someone becomes visible or present. For example: The sun appeared「太陽が出た」(たいようがでた). This verb is versatile and can be used in various contexts, such as leaving a room, appearing in a show, or even when something is published or released. It is important to note that the specific meaning often depends on the context in which it is used.

Part Of Speech

verb

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

1

Frequency

93

Composition

kanji-hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Case

Reading

Kanji

場Place 合Fit, Match

Explanation

The Japanese noun '場合 (ばあい)' means 'case' or 'situation'. It is used to refer to a specific instance, scenario, or circumstance. This word is often used in conditional statements or when discussing hypothetical situations. For example: in case of rain, the event will be canceled「雨の場合、イベントは中止です」(あめのばあい、イベントはちゅうしです). In that case, I will call you「その場合、電話します」(そのばあい、でんわします). Note that '場合' is commonly paired with conditional phrases like '～の場合' to indicate 'in the case of ~' or 'if ~ happens'.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N3

Kanji Grade

2

Frequency

94

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Before, Front

Reading

Kanji

前Before, Front

Explanation

The Japanese noun '前 (まえ)' has two primary meanings. The first is 'front', referring to the forward-facing part or side of something. For example: the front of the house「家の前」(いえのまえ). The second meaning is 'before', indicating a time or event that precedes another. For example: before the meeting「会議の前」(かいぎのまえ). It's important to note that '前' can also be used in compound words to indicate precedence or priority, such as '前売り (まえうり)' meaning 'advance sale'. Additionally, '前' can be used in expressions like '前に (まえに)' to mean 'in front of' or 'before' in a temporal sense, as in 'before eating'「食べる前に」(たべるまえに).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

2

Frequency

95

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Book

Reading

Kanji

本Book, Origin

Explanation

The Japanese noun '本 (ほん)' primarily means 'book'. It refers to a written or printed work consisting of pages glued or sewn together. This word is commonly used in everyday conversation and can be found in various contexts, such as in libraries, bookstores, or when discussing literature. For example: I bought a book「本を買いました」(ほんをかいました). This book is interesting「この本は面白い」(このほんはおもしろい). Additionally, '本' can sometimes refer to the main or essential part of something, but this usage is less common and typically context-dependent.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N5

Kanji Grade

1

Frequency

96

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Take, Assume

Reading

Kanji

就Settle, Concerning

Explanation

The Japanese verb '就く (つく)' primarily means 'to take' or 'to assume' a position, role, or job. It is often used in formal contexts to describe starting a new job, position, or responsibility. For example: He took the position of manager「彼はマネージャーの職に就いた」(かれはマネージャーのしょくについた). She assumed the role of team leader「彼女はチームリーダーの役職に就いた」(かのじょはチームリーダーのやくしょくについた). This verb is also used in phrases like 'bedに就く (ベッドにつく)', meaning 'to go to bed'. It carries a formal tone and is typically used in professional or official settings.

Part Of Speech

verb

Kanji JLPT

N1

Kanji Grade

6

Frequency

97

Composition

kanji-hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Body

Reading

Kanji

体Body

Explanation

The Japanese noun '体 (からだ)' means 'body'. It refers to the physical structure of a person or animal, including all its parts. This word is commonly used in everyday conversation and can be applied in various contexts, such as health, fitness, or describing physical sensations. For example: My body is tired「体が疲れた」(からだがつかれた). Take care of your body「体に気をつけて」(からだにきをつけて). It can also be used metaphorically to describe the main part or structure of something, such as 'the body of a car' (車の体).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N4

Kanji Grade

2

Frequency

98

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Eye, Sight

Reading

Kanji

目Eye

Explanation

The Japanese noun '目 (め)' primarily means 'eye', referring to the physical organ used for seeing. It can also mean 'sight' or 'vision', referring to the ability to see. This word is used in various contexts, both literal and metaphorical. For example: my eyes hurt「目が痛い」(めがいたい). She has good eyesight「彼女は目がいい」(かのじょはめがいい). Additionally, '目' can be used in idiomatic expressions, such as '目が高い (めがたかい)', which means 'to have a good eye' or 'to be discerning'. It's important to note that '目' can also refer to the eye of a needle or the eye of a storm, showing its versatility in usage.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

N4

Kanji Grade

1

Frequency

99

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Degree

Reading

Explanation

The Japanese suffix 'さ (sa)' is used to turn adjectives into nouns, indicating the degree or extent of the adjective's quality. It is often used to express how much of a certain quality something has. For example: the height of the mountain「山の高さ」(やまのたかさ). The depth of the ocean「海の深さ」(うみのふかさ). This suffix is commonly used in both spoken and written Japanese to quantify or emphasize the intensity of a characteristic.

Part Of Speech

suffix

Frequency

100

Composition

hiragana

Handwriting