word

Meaning

Remarkable

Reading

Kanji

顕Appear, Manifest 著Renowned, Author

Explanation

The Japanese adjectival noun '顕著 (けんちょ)' means 'remarkable' or 'notable'. It is used to describe something that is clearly visible, noticeable, or stands out due to its significance or impact. This word is often used in formal or academic contexts to highlight something that is particularly striking or evident. For example: The progress in technology is remarkable「技術の進歩は顕著だ」(ぎじゅつのしんぽはけんちょだ). The difference between the two groups was notable「二つのグループの違いは顕著だった」(ふたつのグループのちがいはけんちょだった). Note that '顕著' is typically used in written or formal speech rather than casual conversation.

Part Of Speech

adjectival noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

6917

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Desert

Reading

Kanji

砂Sand 漠Vague, Desert

Explanation

The Japanese noun '砂漠 (さばく)' means 'desert'. It refers to a barren area of land where little precipitation occurs, making it difficult for plants and animals to survive. This word is used to describe both natural deserts and metaphorical situations that feel barren or lifeless. For example: The Sahara is a vast desert「サハラは広大な砂漠です」(サハラはこうだいなさばくです). His heart felt like a desert「彼の心は砂漠のようだった」(かれのこころはさばくのようだった). The word can also be used in compound nouns, such as '砂漠地帯 (さばくちたい)' meaning 'desert region'.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

6924

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Wall, Fence

Reading

Kanji

塀Wall, Fence

Explanation

The Japanese noun '塀 (へい)' refers to a fence or wall, typically used to enclose or divide spaces. It is commonly seen around properties, gardens, or buildings. The word can describe both low fences and tall walls, depending on the context. For example: The house is surrounded by a high wall「その家は高い塀に囲まれている」(そのいえはたかいへいにかこまれている). There is a wooden fence around the garden「庭の周りに木の塀がある」(にわのまわりにきのへいがある). Note that '塀' often implies a man-made structure, distinguishing it from natural barriers.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

6979

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Moat, Canal

Reading

Kanji

堀Ditch, Moat

Explanation

The Japanese noun '堀 (ほり)' primarily refers to a 'moat', which is a deep, wide ditch surrounding a castle or town, typically filled with water. It can also refer to a 'canal', which is a man-made waterway used for transportation or irrigation. The word is often used in historical or geographical contexts. For example: The castle is surrounded by a moat「その城は堀に囲まれている」(そのしろはほりにかこまれている). They built a canal to improve irrigation「彼らは灌漑を改善するために堀を掘った」(かれらはかんがいをかいぜんするためにほりをほった).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

7060

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Center

Reading

Kanji

中Center 枢Pivot, Hinge

Explanation

The Japanese noun '中枢 (ちゅうすう)' refers to the central or core part of something, often implying a critical or pivotal role. It is commonly used in contexts such as organizations, systems, or physical structures to denote the main or controlling part. For example: the center of the nervous system「神経系の中枢」(しんけいけいのちゅうすう). The headquarters is the center of the company「本社は会社の中枢です」(ほんしゃはかいしゃのちゅうすうです). This word carries a nuance of importance and centrality, often suggesting a place or point from which control or influence is exerted.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

7104

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Zen

Reading

Kanji

禅Zen

Explanation

The Japanese noun '禅 (ぜん)' refers to 'Zen', a school of Mahayana Buddhism that emphasizes meditation and intuition. Zen is deeply rooted in Japanese culture and is often associated with simplicity, mindfulness, and the pursuit of enlightenment. It has influenced various aspects of Japanese life, including art, tea ceremonies, and martial arts. Example sentences: He practices Zen meditation「彼は禅の瞑想をします」(かれはぜんのめいそうをします). Zen teaches the importance of being present「禅は今を大切にすることを教えます」(ぜんはいまをたいせつにすることをおしえます).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

7115

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Building

Reading

Kanji

棟Block, Ridgepole

Explanation

The Japanese suffix '棟 (とう)' is used to denote a building or a structure, often in the context of counting or identifying specific buildings within a complex. It is commonly used in addresses, building names, or when referring to multiple buildings. For example: building number 3「3棟」(さんとう). The main building「本棟」(ほんとう). This suffix is particularly useful in contexts like schools, hospitals, or office complexes where there are multiple buildings. Note that '棟' can also refer to a specific wing or section of a larger building.

Part Of Speech

suffix

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

7117

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Swear

Reading

Kanji

誓Swear, Vow

Explanation

The Japanese verb '誓う (ちかう)' means 'to swear' or 'to vow'. It is used when someone makes a solemn promise or pledge, often with a strong sense of commitment or determination. This verb can be used in various contexts, such as personal promises, oaths, or formal declarations. For example: I swear to protect you「あなたを守ると誓います」(あなたをまもるとちかいます). He vowed to never give up「彼は決して諦めないと誓った」(かれはけっしてあきらめないとちかった). The verb often carries a serious tone, emphasizing the sincerity of the promise being made.

Part Of Speech

verb

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

7122

Composition

kanji-hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Husband, Innkeeper

Reading

Kanji

亭Inn, Pavilion 主Master

Explanation

The Japanese noun '亭主 (ていしゅ)' has two distinct meanings. The first and most common meaning is 'husband', often used in a somewhat traditional or old-fashioned context. For example: my husband is kind「私の亭主は優しい」(わたしのていしゅはやさしい). The second meaning is 'innkeeper' or 'proprietor of a traditional Japanese inn (ryokan)', which is less commonly used in modern Japanese. For example: the innkeeper welcomed us warmly「亭主が私たちを温かく迎えてくれた」(ていしゅがわたしたちをあたたかくむかえてくれた). The word carries a slightly formal or traditional nuance, and its usage depends heavily on context.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

7133

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Quick

Reading

Kanji

迅Swift 速Quick

Explanation

The Japanese adjectival noun '迅速 (じんそく)' means 'quick' or 'swift'. It is used to describe actions, processes, or responses that are done with speed and efficiency. This term often carries a positive connotation, implying not just speed but also effectiveness. For example: The response was quick「迅速な対応だった」(じんそくなたいおうだった). The delivery was swift「迅速な配達でした」(じんそくはいたつでした). It is commonly used in formal or professional contexts to praise efficiency.

Part Of Speech

adjectival noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

7144

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Fake

Reading

Kanji

偽Falsify, Fake 物Thing

Explanation

The Japanese noun '偽物 (にせもの)' means 'fake'. It refers to something that is not genuine, such as counterfeit goods, imitations, or forged items. This word is often used in contexts where authenticity is important, such as art, fashion, or documents. For example: This painting is a fake「この絵は偽物です」(このえはにせものです). Be careful of fake products「偽物に気をつけて」(にせものにきをつけて). The term can also carry a negative connotation, implying deceit or inferior quality.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

7162

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Analysis

Reading

Kanji

分Minute, Part 析Chop, Analyze

Explanation

The Japanese verbal noun '分析 (ぶんせき)' means 'analysis'. It refers to the process of examining something in detail to understand its nature or structure. This word is commonly used in academic, scientific, and business contexts. For example: The data analysis is complete「データの分析が完了した」(データのぶんせきがかんりょうした). We need to analyze the market trends「市場の動向を分析する必要がある」(しじょうのどうこうをぶんせきするひつようがある). The word can also be used metaphorically, such as analyzing a situation or problem.

Part Of Speech

verbal noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

7196

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Germs

Reading

Kanji

菌Fungus, Bacteria

Explanation

The Japanese noun 'ばい菌 (ばいきん)' refers to 'germs' or 'bacteria'. It is commonly used in everyday conversation to describe harmful microorganisms that can cause illness or infection. This word often carries a negative connotation, as it is associated with dirt, sickness, or uncleanliness. For example: wash your hands to avoid germs「ばい菌を避けるために手を洗いなさい」(ばいきんをさけるためにてをあらいなさい). Germs are everywhere「ばい菌はどこにでもいる」(ばいきんはどこにでもいる). The term is frequently used in health-related contexts, such as hygiene or medical discussions.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

7201

Composition

kanji-hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Displeased

Reading

Kanji

不Not 機Machine, Opportunity 嫌Dislike

Explanation

The Japanese adjectival noun '不機嫌 (ふきげん)' means 'displeased' or 'in a bad mood'. It is used to describe someone who is visibly unhappy, irritated, or sulking. This word often conveys a sense of emotional discomfort or dissatisfaction. For example: He seems displeased「彼は不機嫌そうだ」(かれはふきげんそうだ). She was in a bad mood all day「彼女は一日中不機嫌だった」(かのじょはいちにちじゅうふきげんだった). The term can also be used to describe a situation or atmosphere that feels tense or unpleasant due to someone's mood.

Part Of Speech

adjectival noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

7263

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

All nighter

Reading

Kanji

徹Penetrate, Go through 夜Night

Explanation

The Japanese noun '徹夜 (てつや)' refers to staying up all night, often to complete work, study, or other tasks. It is commonly used in contexts where someone sacrifices sleep to meet a deadline or prepare for an event. For example: I pulled an all-nighter to finish the report「レポートを終わらせるために徹夜した」(レポートをおわらせるためにてつやした). He stayed up all night studying for the exam「彼は試験のために徹夜で勉強した」(かれはしけんのためにてつやでべんきょうした). The word can also imply exhaustion or a sense of urgency, depending on the context.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

7264

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Thorough

Reading

Kanji

徹Penetrate, Go through 底Bottom 的Target

Explanation

The Japanese adjective '徹底的 (てっていてき)' means 'thorough'. It describes something that is done completely, meticulously, or exhaustively, leaving no room for oversight. This word is often used in contexts where precision, completeness, or intensity is emphasized. For example: He conducted a thorough investigation「彼は徹底的な調査を行った」(かれはてっていてきなちょうさをおこなった). The company implemented thorough reforms「その会社は徹底的な改革を実施した」(そのかいしゃはてっていてきなかいかくをじっしした). Note that '徹底的' is often used in formal or professional settings to emphasize the depth or completeness of an action.

Part Of Speech

adjective

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

7265

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Balance

Reading

Kanji

釣Fish, Fishing 合Fit, Match

Explanation

The Japanese noun '釣り合い (つりあい)' means 'balance'. It refers to a state of equilibrium or harmony between different elements, such as physical balance, emotional balance, or balance in design. For example: The design has a good balance「そのデザインは釣り合いが取れている」(そのデザインはつりあいがとれている). Maintaining balance in life is important「人生の釣り合いを保つことは大切だ」(じんせいのつりあいをたもつことはたいせつだ). This word is often used in contexts where symmetry, proportion, or stability is emphasized.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

7277

Composition

kanji-hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Balance

Reading

Kanji

釣Fish, Fishing 合Fit, Match

Explanation

The Japanese verb '釣り合う (つりあう)' means 'to balance' or 'to be in proportion'. It is often used to describe a state where two or more things are in harmony or equilibrium, whether physically, emotionally, or in terms of value. For example: The colors of the painting balance well「その絵の色はよく釣り合っている」(そのえのいろはよくつりあっている). Their skills balance each other out「彼らのスキルは釣り合っている」(かれらのスキルはつりあっている). This verb can also imply a sense of fairness or appropriateness, as in 'The reward balances the effort「その報酬は努力と釣り合っている」(そのほうしゅうはどりょくとつりあっている).'

Part Of Speech

verb

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

7279

Composition

kanji-hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Ditch

Reading

Kanji

溝Gutter, Channel

Explanation

The Japanese noun '溝 (みぞ)' refers to a 'ditch' or 'trench'. It is commonly used to describe a narrow channel dug into the ground, often for drainage or irrigation purposes. Additionally, it can metaphorically represent a gap or rift between people or ideas. Example sentences: There is a deep ditch in the field「畑に深い溝がある」(はたけにふかいみぞがある). The ditch was filled with water after the rain「雨の後、溝に水がたまった」(あめのあと、みぞにみずがたまった). The argument created a rift between them「その議論で彼らの間に溝ができた」(そのぎろんでかれらのあいだにみぞができた).

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

7291

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Fishy, Bloody

Reading

Kanji

生Life 臭Stinking, Bad smell

Explanation

The Japanese adjective '生臭い (なまぐさい)' has two distinct meanings. The first is 'fishy', referring to a strong smell or taste of fish, often used to describe seafood or dishes with a strong fish odor. For example: This sushi smells fishy「この寿司は生臭い」(このすしはなまぐさい). The second meaning is 'bloody', referring to something related to blood or gore, often used in a figurative sense to describe something gruesome or violent. For example: The crime scene was bloody「その犯罪現場は生臭かった」(そのはんざいげんばはなまぐさかった). The word can also carry a metaphorical nuance, implying something suspicious or unpleasant, depending on the context.

Part Of Speech

adjective

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

7306

Composition

kanji-hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Smell

Reading

Kanji

臭Stinking, Bad smell

Explanation

The Japanese verb '臭う (におう)' means 'to smell'. This verb is used to describe the act of perceiving an odor, whether pleasant or unpleasant. It can be used in various contexts, such as describing the smell of food, flowers, or something unpleasant like garbage. For example: The flowers smell good「花がいいにおいがする」(はながいいにおいがする). This room smells bad「この部屋は臭う」(このへやはにおう). It's important to note that '臭う' often carries a connotation of an unpleasant smell, whereas '匂う (におう)' can be used for pleasant smells. However, '臭う' can also be used neutrally depending on the context.

Part Of Speech

verb

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

7307

Composition

kanji-hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Troublesome

Reading

Kanji

面Face, Surface 倒Topple, Overthrow 臭Stinking, Bad smell

Explanation

The Japanese adjective '面倒臭い (めんどうくさい)' means 'troublesome' or 'a pain'. It is used to describe something that is bothersome, annoying, or requires too much effort. This word carries a slightly informal tone and is often used in casual conversation. For example: This homework is troublesome「この宿題は面倒臭い」(このしゅくだいはめんどうくさい). Dealing with that person is a pain「あの人と関わるのは面倒臭い」(あのひととかかわるのはめんどうくさい). The word combines '面倒 (めんどう)', meaning 'trouble' or 'hassle', with '臭い (くさい)', which adds a sense of unpleasantness or reluctance.

Part Of Speech

adjective

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

7308

Composition

kanji-hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Resume

Reading

Kanji

履Fulfill, Footgear 歴Curriculum, Continuation 書Write

Explanation

The Japanese noun '履歴書 (りれきしょ)' refers to a 'resume' or 'curriculum vitae (CV)'. It is a formal document used when applying for jobs, detailing a person's work history, education, skills, and other relevant information. In Japan, submitting a well-prepared 履歴書 is a crucial part of the job application process. Example sentences: Please submit your resume「履歴書を提出してください」(りれきしょをていしゅつしてください). I updated my resume「履歴書を更新しました」(りれきしょをこうしんしました). The format and content of a 履歴書 are often standardized in Japan, and it is typically accompanied by a 職務経歴書 (しょくむけいれきしょ), which provides more detailed work experience.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

7312

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Footwear

Reading

Kanji

履Fulfill, Footgear 物Thing

Explanation

The Japanese noun '履物 (はきもの)' refers to 'footwear' or 'items worn on the feet'. This term is a general category that includes shoes, sandals, slippers, and other types of foot coverings. It is commonly used in contexts where discussing types of footwear or customs related to footwear, such as removing shoes before entering a home. For example: Please remove your footwear「履物を脱いでください」(はきものをぬいでください). Traditional Japanese footwear「伝統的な履物」(でんとうてきなはきもの). The word is often used in formal or descriptive contexts rather than casual conversation.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

7313

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Cupboard

Reading

Kanji

戸Door 棚Shelf

Explanation

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

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

7314

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Underwear

Reading

Kanji

肌Skin 着Arrive, Wear

Explanation

The Japanese noun '肌着 (はだぎ)' refers to 'underwear' or 'underclothing'. It specifically denotes garments worn directly against the skin, such as undershirts, underpants, or thermal wear. This term is commonly used in everyday contexts when discussing clothing or laundry. For example: I bought new underwear「新しい肌着を買いました」(あたらしいはだぎをかいました). She washed her underwear「彼女は肌着を洗いました」(かのじょははだぎをあらいました). The word emphasizes the closeness of the clothing to the skin, often implying comfort or practicality.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

7316

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Skin color

Reading

Kanji

肌Skin 色Color

Explanation

The Japanese noun '肌色 (はだいろ)' refers to the color of human skin, often described as a light beige or flesh tone. It is commonly used in art, fashion, and design to describe colors that resemble natural skin tones. For example: This shirt is skin-colored「このシャツは肌色です」(このシャツははだいろです). The artist used skin color for the portrait「画家は肖像画に肌色を使いました」(がかはしょうぞうがにはだいろをつかいました). Note that '肌色' can sometimes carry cultural or historical connotations, as it traditionally represents a specific skin tone that may not encompass all human skin colors.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

7318

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Pregnancy

Reading

Kanji

妊Pregnant, Swollen 娠Pregnant, Pregnancy

Explanation

The Japanese verbal noun '妊娠 (にんしん)' refers to the state of being pregnant. It is used to describe the condition of a woman carrying a developing embryo or fetus within her body. This term is commonly used in medical, personal, and formal contexts. For example: She is happy about her pregnancy「彼女は妊娠を喜んでいる」(かのじょはにんしんをよろこんでいる). The doctor confirmed the pregnancy「医者が妊娠を確認した」(いしゃがにんしんをかくにんした). It is important to note that '妊娠' is a noun and is often used with verbs like 'する' to indicate the act of becoming pregnant, as in '妊娠する (にんしんする)' (to become pregnant).

Part Of Speech

verbal noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

7345

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

View

Reading

Kanji

眺Stare, Look out over

Explanation

The Japanese noun '眺め (ながめ)' refers to a 'view' or 'scene'. It is used to describe what one sees when looking at something, often from a distance or a specific vantage point. This word can be used for natural landscapes, cityscapes, or even abstract views. For example: the view from the mountain is beautiful「山からの眺めは美しい」(やまからのながめはうつくしい). I enjoy the view of the ocean「海の眺めを楽しむ」(うみのながめをたのしむ). The word can also imply a sense of contemplation or appreciation of the scene.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

7351

Composition

kanji-hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Prejudice

Reading

Kanji

偏Biased 見See

Explanation

The Japanese noun '偏見 (へんけん)' means 'prejudice'. It refers to preconceived opinions or attitudes, often negative, that are not based on reason or actual experience. This term is commonly used in discussions about social issues, discrimination, or unfair judgments. For example: he has a prejudice against foreigners「彼は外国人に対して偏見を持っている」(かれはがいこくじんにたいしてへんけんをもっている). We must eliminate prejudice「偏見をなくさなければならない」(へんけんをなくさなければならない). The word is often used in formal or serious contexts, highlighting the importance of fairness and open-mindedness.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

7369

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Times, How many times

Reading

Kanji

何What 遍All over, Everywhere

Explanation

The Japanese noun '何遍 (なんべん)' is used to ask about the number of times something has occurred or to refer to the number of times something happens. It is often used in questions to inquire about frequency. For example: How many times have you been to Japan?「日本には何遍行きましたか？」(にほんにはなんべんいきましたか？). I don't know how many times I've told you「何遍言ったかわからない」(なんべんいったかわからない). Note that '何遍' is more formal and less commonly used in everyday conversation compared to '何回 (なんかい)', which is more casual and widely used.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

7370

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Faction

Reading

Kanji

派Sect, Faction 閥Clan, Clique

Explanation

The Japanese noun '派閥 (はばつ)' refers to a 'faction' or a group within a larger organization, often political or corporate, that has its own distinct interests or agenda. This term is commonly used in contexts where there is internal division or competition within a group. For example: There is a strong faction within the party「党内に強い派閥がある」(とうないにつよいはばつがある). The company is divided into several factions「その会社はいくつかの派閥に分かれている」(そのかいしゃはいくつかのはばつにわかれている). The term can carry a slightly negative connotation, implying internal strife or power struggles.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

7376

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Unpleasant

Reading

Kanji

不Not 愉Pleased, Pleasure 快Pleasant

Explanation

The Japanese adjectival noun '不愉快 (ふゆかい)' means 'unpleasant'. It is used to describe situations, feelings, or experiences that cause discomfort, displeasure, or annoyance. This word often conveys a sense of emotional or psychological discomfort rather than physical discomfort. For example: I felt very unpleasant「とても不愉快に感じた」(とてもふゆかいにかんじた). His attitude was unpleasant「彼の態度は不愉快だった」(かれのたいどはふゆかいだった). It can also be used to describe something that is disagreeable or offensive, such as an unpleasant smell「不愉快な匂い」(ふゆかいなにおい).

Part Of Speech

adjectival noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

7379

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Pleasant

Reading

Kanji

愉Pleased, Pleasure 快Pleasant

Explanation

The Japanese adjectival noun '愉快 (ゆかい)' means 'pleasant' or 'delightful'. It is used to describe something that brings joy, amusement, or a sense of enjoyment. This word often conveys a lighthearted or cheerful feeling and is commonly used in contexts involving entertainment, social interactions, or experiences. For example: The party was very pleasant「パーティーはとても愉快だった」(ぱーてぃーはとてもゆかいだった). His jokes are always pleasant「彼のジョークはいつも愉快だ」(かれのじょーくはいつもゆかいだ). Note that '愉快' can also imply a sense of amusement or fun, but its core meaning remains tied to something that is enjoyable or pleasing.

Part Of Speech

adjectival noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

7380

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Ugly

Reading

Kanji

醜Ugly

Explanation

The Japanese adjective '醜い (みにくい)' means 'ugly'. It is used to describe something or someone that is unattractive in appearance or behavior. This word can also be used metaphorically to describe actions or situations that are morally reprehensible or disgraceful. For example: That painting is ugly「その絵は醜い」(そのえはみにくい). His actions were ugly「彼の行動は醜かった」(かれのこうどうはみにくかった). It's important to note that this adjective can carry a strong negative connotation, so it should be used with caution.

Part Of Speech

adjective

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

7384

Composition

kanji-hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Waste

Reading

Kanji

無Nothing 駄Poor quality, Burdensome

Explanation

The Japanese adjectival noun '無駄 (むだ)' primarily means 'waste' or 'uselessness'. It is used to describe something that is futile, unnecessary, or without purpose. This word can refer to wasted time, effort, resources, or actions. For example: Don't waste your time「時間を無駄にしないで」(じかんをむだにしないで). This is a waste of money「これはお金の無駄だ」(これはおかねのむだだ). '無駄' can also imply inefficiency or something that does not contribute to a desired outcome. It is often used in contexts where there is a sense of regret or criticism about the lack of productivity or value in an action or object.

Part Of Speech

adjectival noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

7397

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Waste

Reading

Kanji

無Nothing 駄Poor quality, Burdensome 遣Use, Dispatch

Explanation

The Japanese verbal noun '無駄遣い (むだづかい)' means 'waste' or 'squandering'. It refers to the act of using resources, such as money, time, or effort, in a way that is not useful or productive. This term often carries a negative connotation, implying that the waste could have been avoided. For example: Don't waste money「お金を無駄遣いしないで」(おかねをむだづかいしないで). She wastes her time on trivial matters「彼女はつまらないことに時間を無駄遣いしている」(かのじょはつまらないことにじかんをむだづかいしている).

Part Of Speech

verbal noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

7398

Composition

kanji-hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Boiling

Reading

Kanji

沸Boil 騰Rise, Inflation

Explanation

The Japanese verbal noun '沸騰 (ふっとう)' means 'boiling'. It refers to the process of a liquid reaching its boiling point and bubbling vigorously due to heat. This term is commonly used in both scientific and everyday contexts. For example: the water is boiling「お湯が沸騰している」(おゆがふっとうしている). The excitement reached a boiling point「興奮が沸騰点に達した」(こうふんがふっとうてんにたっした). In a figurative sense, it can also describe a situation or emotions reaching a peak or climax, such as 'the crowd's excitement was boiling over'「群衆の興奮が沸騰していた」(ぐんしゅうのこうふんがふっとうしていた).

Part Of Speech

verbal noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

7399

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Friction

Reading

Kanji

摩Rub, Chafe 擦Rub, Grate

Explanation

The Japanese verbal noun '摩擦 (まさつ)' primarily means 'friction'. It can refer to physical friction between surfaces, as well as metaphorical friction, such as conflict or tension between people or groups. For example: There is friction between the two countries「二つの国の間に摩擦がある」(ふたつのくにのあいだにまさつがある). The friction of the tires on the road caused the car to stop「タイヤと道路の摩擦で車が止まった」(タイヤとどうろのまさつでくるまがとまった). This word is often used in both scientific and social contexts.

Part Of Speech

verbal noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

7405

Composition

kanji

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Bottle opener

Reading

Kanji

栓Plug, Stopper 抜Pluck, Extract

Explanation

The Japanese noun '栓抜き (せんぬき)' refers to a 'bottle opener', a tool used to remove caps or corks from bottles. It is commonly used in everyday situations, such as opening beer or soda bottles. For example: I need a bottle opener to open this beer「このビールを開けるために栓抜きが必要です」(このビールをあけるためにせんぬきがひつようです). He bought a new bottle opener「彼は新しい栓抜きを買いました」(かれはあたらしいせんぬきをかいました). The word is a combination of '栓 (せん)', meaning 'stopper' or 'cork', and '抜き (ぬき)', meaning 'removal'.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

7432

Composition

kanji-hiragana

Handwriting

word

Meaning

Pickles

Reading

Kanji

漬Soak, Pickle 物Thing

Explanation

The Japanese noun '漬け物 (つけもの)' refers to pickled vegetables, a common side dish in Japanese cuisine. These are vegetables that have been preserved through fermentation or soaking in a brine, vinegar, or other solutions. They are often served alongside rice or as a garnish. For example: I like pickles「私は漬け物が好きです」(わたしはつけものがすきです). These pickles are very salty「この漬け物はとても塩辛い」(このつけものはとてもしおからい). The term can also refer to the process of pickling itself, but in everyday usage, it most commonly refers to the pickled vegetables.

Part Of Speech

noun

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

7435

Composition

kanji-hiragana

Handwriting