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What is the Kanji for 'Family name'? | 氏

If you are wondering what is the Japanese Kanji for 'Family name', you've come to the right place!

The Japanese Kanji for 'Family name' is 氏.

    kanji

    Meaning

    Family name

    Reading

    kunyomiうじ

    uji

    onyomi

    shi

    Example Word

    氏: surname. The Japanese noun '氏 (し)' refers to a person's surname or family name. It is often used in formal or written contexts, such as in official documents, news articles, or academic papers. For example: Mr. Tanaka's opinion「田中氏の意見」(たなかしのいけん). The term can also be used to refer to someone in a respectful manner, particularly when discussing their work or contributions. For instance: Dr. Suzuki's research「鈴木氏の研究」(すずきしのけんきゅう). Note that '氏' is typically used in third-person references and is not used when directly addressing someone.

    Radical

    Stroke Count

    4

    JLPT

    N1

    Grade

    4

    Frequency

    231

    Handwriting

As Part Of Other Kanji

This kanji appears as part of 2 other kanji:

    kanji

    Meaning

    Paper

    kanji

    Meaning

    People, Nation

Words Using

This kanji is used in 2 words:

    word

    Meaning

    Surname

    word

    彼氏

    Meaning

    Boyfriend

Learn the Kanji

Let's make sure you fully understand this kanji.

What does 氏 mean?

氏 means 'Family name'.

Japanese school students learn this kanji in Fourth Grade, while non-native learners often study it for the JLPT N1 exam.

To help you master this kanji, here's an interactive lesson where you'll practice its readings and meanings.