What is the Kanji for 'Master' and 'Expert'? | 師

If you are wondering what is the Japanese Kanji for 'Master' and 'Expert', you've come to the right place!

The Japanese Kanji for 'Master' and 'Expert' is 師.

kanji

師

Meaning

Master, Expert

Reading

onyomiし

shi

Example Word

師匠: master. The Japanese noun '師匠 (ししょう)' refers to a 'master' or 'teacher', particularly in the context of traditional arts, crafts, or skills. It is used to denote someone who has achieved a high level of expertise and is qualified to teach others. This term carries a sense of respect and is often used in fields such as martial arts, tea ceremony, calligraphy, or music. For example: my master is very skilled「私の師匠はとても上手です」(わたしのししょうはとてもじょうずです). He became a master of calligraphy「彼は書道の師匠になりました」(かれはしょどうのししょうになりました). The term emphasizes the hierarchical relationship between the teacher and the student, and it is often used with a tone of reverence.

Radical

巾

Stroke Count

JLPT

Grade

Frequency

288

Handwriting

Words Using 師

This kanji is used in 7 words:

word

師

Meaning

Teacher

word

医師

Meaning

Doctor

word

教師

Meaning

Teacher

word

技師

Meaning

Engineer

word

師走

Meaning

December

word

師匠

Meaning

Master

word

講師

Meaning

Lecturer

Learn the Kanji 師

Let's make sure you fully understand this kanji.

What does 師 mean?

師 means 'Master' and 'Expert'.

Japanese school students learn this kanji in Fifth Grade, while non-native learners often study it for the JLPT N3 exam.

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