What is the Kanji for "Spirit"?
If you are wondering what is the Japanese Kanji for "Spirit", you've come to the right place!
The Japanese Kanji for "Spirit" is "気".
This kanji has 2 readings:
Its onyomi readings are "Ki" and "Ke".
kunyomi readings are based on the pronunciation of native Japanese words, and onyomi readings are based on the Chinese pronunciation of the character.
If you visually breakdown this kanji, you can see is made up of 2 parts:
The radical "㐅" means "Katakana me" . And The radical "气" means "Air" .
Now, let's make sure you understand this kanji the other way around too.
What does the kanji "気" mean in japanese?
"気" means "Spirit" .
Japanese School Students learn this kanji in First Grade, while foreigners may learn this kanji in preparation for the JLPT N5 exam.
Here are some words that use this kanji:
気: "Spirit" or "Mood". The Japanese noun '気 (き)' is a versatile word that can refer to one's spirit, mood, or even attention. It is often used in various contexts to describe feelings, atmosphere, or mental state. For example: I'm in a good mood「気分がいい」(きぶんがいい). Pay attention「気をつけて」(きをつけて). The word '気' is also commonly used in compound words and expressions, such as '気持ち (きもち)' meaning 'feeling' or '気がつく (きがつく)' meaning 'to notice'. Its meaning can vary widely depending on the context, making it a fundamental concept in Japanese language and culture.
元気: "Healthy" or "Energetic". The Japanese adjective '元気 (げんき)' primarily means 'healthy' or 'energetic'. It is commonly used to describe someone's physical or mental state, indicating they are in good health or full of energy. It can also be used as a greeting to ask about someone's well-being. For example: Are you feeling well?「元気ですか？」(げんきですか？). He is very energetic「彼はとても元気です」(かれはとてもげんきです). The word can also describe something lively or spirited, such as a lively atmosphere「元気な雰囲気」(げんきなふんいき). Note that '元気' is often used in casual conversations and is a positive, uplifting term.
気持ち: "Feeling". The Japanese noun '気持ち (きもち)' primarily means 'feeling' or 'emotion'. It refers to one's emotional state, physical sensation, or even a sense of something. It is a versatile word used in various contexts, such as expressing emotions, physical comfort, or opinions. For example: I feel happy「気持ちがいい」(きもちがいい). This bed is comfortable「このベッドは気持ちがいい」(このベッドはきもちがいい). It can also express gratitude or goodwill, as in 'Thank you for your kind feelings'「気持ちをありがとう」(きもちをありがとう). Note that '気持ち' can sometimes imply a sense of physical comfort or discomfort, depending on the context.
病気: "Illness". The Japanese verbal noun '病気 (びょうき)' means 'illness' or 'disease'. It refers to a state of poor health or a specific medical condition. This word is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to describe physical or mental health issues. For example: He has a serious illness「彼は重い病気です」(かれはおもいびょうきです). I caught a cold and got sick「風邪をひいて病気になりました」(かぜをひいてびょうきになりました). It can also be used metaphorically to describe societal or systemic issues, such as 'the illness of society' (社会の病気, しゃかいのびょうき).
気に入る: "Like". The Japanese verb '気に入る (きにいる)' means 'to like' or 'to be fond of'. It is used to express that someone finds something pleasing or to their taste. This phrase is often used when talking about preferences for objects, places, or even people. For example: I really like this bag「このバッグがとても気に入る」(このバッグがとてもきにいる). She likes the new cafe「彼女は新しいカフェを気に入る」(かのじょはあたらしいカフェをきにいる). Note that '気に入る' is often used in its past tense form '気に入った (きにいった)' to indicate that something has been liked or found pleasing.
気付く: "Notice". The Japanese verb '気付く (きづく)' means 'to notice' or 'to become aware of'. It is used when someone realizes or becomes conscious of something, often something that was previously overlooked or unnoticed. This verb can be used in various contexts, such as noticing a detail, realizing a mistake, or becoming aware of someone's feelings. For example: I noticed that the door was open「ドアが開いていることに気付いた」(ドアがあいていることにきづいた). She noticed that he was lying「彼が嘘をついていることに気付いた」(かれがうそをついていることにきづいた). The verb is often followed by the particle 'に' to indicate what has been noticed.
気分: "Mood". The Japanese noun '気分 (きぶん)' refers to one's mood or emotional state. It can describe how someone feels emotionally or physically at a given moment. For example: I'm in a good mood today「今日は気分がいい」(きょうはきぶんがいい). She's in a bad mood「彼女は気分が悪い」(かのじょはきぶんがわるい). Additionally, '気分' can also refer to the atmosphere or vibe of a place or situation, such as: The atmosphere here is relaxing「ここは気分が落ち着く」(ここはきぶんがおちつく). Note that '気分' is often used in contexts related to emotional well-being or the general feeling of a situation.
天気予報: "Weather forecast". The Japanese noun '天気予報 (てんきよほう)' means 'weather forecast'. It refers to the prediction of weather conditions for a specific time and place, typically provided by meteorological services. This term is commonly used in daily conversations, news broadcasts, and weather reports. For example: The weather forecast says it will rain tomorrow「天気予報によると、明日は雨が降るそうです」(てんきよほうによると、あしたはあめがふるそうです). I always check the weather forecast before going out「出かける前にはいつも天気予報をチェックします」(でかけるまえにはいつもてんきよほうをチェックします).
人気: "Popularity". The Japanese noun '人気 (にんき)' means 'popularity'. It refers to the state of being liked, admired, or supported by many people. This word is often used to describe the popularity of people, places, products, or trends. For example: This restaurant is very popular「このレストランはとても人気です」(このレストランはとてもにんきです). That actor has gained a lot of popularity「あの俳優は人気が出ました」(あのはいゆうはにんきがでました). The word can also be used in compound phrases like '人気者 (にんきもの)' (popular person) or '人気商品 (にんきしょうひん)' (popular product).
空気: "Air". The Japanese noun '空気 (くうき)' primarily means 'air', referring to the invisible gaseous substance surrounding the earth. It is commonly used in everyday conversation to talk about the atmosphere or the air in a specific place. Additionally, '空気' can also metaphorically refer to the mood or atmosphere of a situation or environment. For example: The air is fresh here「ここは空 気が新鮮だ」(ここはくうきがしんせんだ). The atmosphere in the room was tense「部屋の空気が緊張していた」(へやのくうきがきんちょうしていた).
雰囲気: "Atmosphere". The Japanese noun '雰囲気 (ふんいき)' refers to the 'atmosphere' or 'mood' of a place, situation, or event. It describes the overall feeling or vibe that is perceived in a particular environment. This word is often used to convey the intangible qualities that make a setting unique or memorable. For example: The atmosphere of the cafe was cozy「カフェの雰囲気は居心地が良かった」(かふぇのふんいきはいごこちがよかった). The party had a lively atmosphere「パーティーの雰囲気は活気があった」(ぱーてぃーのふんいきはかっきがあった). It can also be used to describe the mood of a person or group, such as '彼の雰囲気は優しかった (かれのふんいきはやさしかった)' (His demeanor was gentle).
気を付ける: "Take care" or "Beware". The Japanese verb '気を付ける (きをつける)' is a common phrase that means 'to be careful' or 'to take care'. It is often used as a warning or advice to someone to pay attention to potential dangers or to be mindful of their actions. This phrase is versatile and can be used in various situations, such as when someone is leaving the house, handling something fragile, or navigating a tricky situation. For example: Please be careful on your way home「帰り道に気を付けてください」(かえりみちにきをつけてください). Take care not to catch a cold「風邪を引かないように気を付けて」(かぜをひかないようにきをつけて). The phrase can also be used in a more general sense to remind someone to stay alert or mindful, as in '気を付けてね (きをつけてね)' which translates to 'Take care, okay?'.
電気: "Electricity". The Japanese noun '電気 (でんき)' primarily means 'electricity'. It refers to the form of energy resulting from the existence of charged particles, such as electrons or protons, either statically as an accumulation of charge or dynamically as a current. This word is commonly used in everyday contexts to refer to electrical power or lighting. For example: The electricity went out「電気が消えた」(でんきがきえた). I pay the electricity bill every month「毎月電気代を払う」(まいつきでんきだいをはらう). Additionally, '電気' can sometimes refer to electric appliances or devices, as in '電気製品 (でんきせいひん)' which means 'electrical appliances'.
気力: "Energy" or "Willpower". The Japanese noun '気力 (きりょく)' refers to mental or physical energy, as well as the strength of will or determination to accomplish something. It is often used to describe the inner drive or motivation needed to face challenges or complete tasks. For example: I don't have the energy to continue「気力が続かない」(きりょくがつづかない). He has the willpower to overcome any obstacle「彼はどんな障害も乗り越える気力がある」(かれはどんなしょうがいものりこえるきりょくがある). This word is commonly used in contexts involving perseverance, effort, or mental stamina.
気味: "Feeling" or "Tendency". The Japanese noun '気味 (きみ)' can mean either 'feeling' or 'tendency', depending on the context. When used to mean 'feeling', it often refers to a slight or vague sensation, such as a feeling of unease or discomfort. For example: I have a feeling of unease「不安な気味がする」(ふあんなきみがする). When used to mean 'tendency', it refers to a slight inclination or propensity towards something. For example: He has a tendency to be late「彼は遅れ気味だ」(かれはおくれきみだ). It's important to note that '気味' is often used in combination with other words to describe specific feelings or tendencies, such as '寒気味 (さむきみ)' (feeling slightly cold) or '遅れ気味 (おくれきみ)' (tending to be late).
寒気: "Chill". The Japanese noun '寒気 (さむけ)' refers to a feeling of coldness or a chill, often associated with the onset of a fever or illness. It can also describe a shiver or a sensation of cold that runs through the body. For example: I feel a chill「寒気がする」(さむけがする). She has a chill and might be getting sick「彼女は寒気がして、病気になりそうだ」(かのじょはさむけがして、びょうきになりそうだ). This word is commonly used in medical contexts to describe symptoms of colds or flu.
気軽: "Casual". The Japanese adjectival noun '気軽 (きがる)' means 'casual' or 'easygoing'. It describes a relaxed, informal, or carefree attitude or manner. This word is often used to describe someone's demeanor, approach to tasks, or the atmosphere of a situation. For example: He is very casual about everything「彼は何でも気軽だ」(かれはなんでもきがるだ). Let's have a casual chat「気軽に話しましょう」(きがるにはなしましょう). The word can also imply a lack of pressure or formality, making it suitable for describing situations where people feel at ease.
景気: "Economy" or "Mood". The Japanese noun '景気 (けいき)' has two primary meanings. The first and most common meaning refers to the state of the economy, such as economic conditions or business climate. For example: The economy is booming「景気がいい」(けいきがいい). The second meaning refers to a person's mood or spirit, often used in a more casual or colloquial context. For example: He's in high spirits today「彼は今日景気がいい」(かれはきょうけいきがいい). The word is versatile and context-dependent, so it's important to pay attention to the surrounding words to determine which meaning is intended.
気配: "Presence" or "Sign". The Japanese noun '気配 (けはい)' refers to a subtle sign, indication, or presence of something. It often implies a sense of something being felt or noticed without being directly observed. This word is commonly used to describe an atmosphere, a hint of something happening, or the feeling of someone or something being nearby. For example: I felt a presence in the room「部屋に気配を感じた」(へやにけはいをかんじた). There was a sign of rain「雨の気配があった」(あめのけはいがあった). The word can also be used in abstract contexts, such as sensing a change in mood or situation.
一気: "All at once". The Japanese noun '一気 (いっき)' means 'all at once' or 'in one go'. It is used to describe doing something in a single, continuous action without stopping. This word is often used in contexts where a task or action is completed quickly and without interruption. For example: He drank the beer all at once「彼はビールを一気に飲んだ」(かれはビールをいっきにのんだ). She read the book in one go「彼女はその本を一気に読んだ」(かのじょはそのほんをい っきによんだ). The word can also imply a sense of urgency or intensity in the action being described.
気楽: "Carefree". The Japanese adjectival noun '気楽 (きらく)' means 'carefree' or 'easygoing'. It describes a state of being relaxed, free from worry, or not burdened by stress. This word is often used to describe a person's attitude, lifestyle, or situation. For example: He lives a carefree life「彼は気楽な生活をしている」(かれはきらくなせいかつをしている). Don't worry, just take it easy「心配しないで、気楽にやって」(しんぱいしないで、きらくにやって). It can also imply a sense of simplicity or lack of pressure, as in '気楽な仕事 (きらくなしごと) (an easy job)'.
勇気: "Courage". The Japanese noun '勇気 (ゆうき)' means 'courage'. It refers to the mental or moral strength to face danger, fear, or difficulty. This word is often used in contexts where someone overcomes fear or takes a bold step despite challenges. For example: He showed great courage「彼は大きな勇気を見せた」(かれはおおきなゆうきをみせた). It takes courage to speak the truth「真実を話すには勇気がいる」(しんじつをはなすにはゆうきがいる). The word can also be used in phrases like '勇気を出す (ゆうきをだす)', which means 'to muster courage'.
気象: "Weather". The Japanese noun '気象 (きしょう)' refers to 'weather' or 'meteorological phenomena'. It is commonly used in contexts related to weather forecasts, climate studies, or atmospheric conditions. For example: The weather forecast is accurate「気象予報は正確です」(きしょうよほうはせいかくです). The study of weather is fascinating「気象の研究は魅力的です」(きしょうのけんきゅうはみりょくてきです). This word is often used in scientific or formal contexts, such as '気象庁 (きしょうちょう)' (Japan Meteorological Agency).
湿気: "Humidity". The Japanese noun '湿気 (しっけ)' refers to 'humidity' or 'moisture in the air'. It is commonly used to describe the dampness or wetness in the atmosphere, especially during rainy seasons or in humid climates. For example: The humidity is high today「今日は湿気が多い」(きょうはしっけがおおい). This room has a lot of humidity「この部屋は湿気が多い」(このへやはしっけがおおい). The word can also be used to describe the feeling of dampness on objects or surfaces, such as '湿気を感じる (しっけをかんじる)' (to feel the humidity).
意気: "Spirit" or "Enthusiasm". The Japanese noun '意気 (いき)' refers to one's spirit, enthusiasm, or determination. It is often used to describe a person's vigor, motivation, or the energy they put into their actions. This word is commonly used in contexts related to teamwork, ambition, or personal drive. For example: His spirit is admirable「彼の意気は立派だ」(かれのいきはりっぱだ). They worked with great enthusiasm「彼らは意気込んで働いた」(かれらはいきごんではたらいた). Note that '意気' can also appear in compound words like '意気投合 (いきとうごう)', which means 'to hit it off' or 'to be in sync with someone.'
気圧: "Pressure". The Japanese noun '気圧 (きあつ)' refers to 'atmospheric pressure' or 'air pressure'. It is commonly used in scientific contexts, weather forecasts, and discussions about the environment. For example: The atmospheric pressure is low today「今日は気圧が低い」(きょうはきあつがひくい). Changes in air pressure can affect your health「気圧の変化は健康に影響を与える」(きあつのへんかはけんこうにえいきょうをあたえる). This term is essential in meteorology and can also be used metaphorically to describe a tense or pressurized situation, though this usage is less common.
高気圧: "High pressure". The Japanese noun '高気圧 (こうきあつ)' refers to 'high atmospheric pressure'. It is commonly used in weather forecasts and discussions about meteorology. High-pressure systems are often associated with clear skies and stable weather conditions. For example: Today's weather is influenced by high pressure「今日の天気は高気圧に影響されています」(きょうのてんきはこうきあつにえいきょうされています). High pressure brings sunny weather「高気圧は晴れをもたらします」(こうきあつははれをもたらします). This term is essential for understanding weather patterns and forecasts in Japanese.
気絶: "Fainting". The Japanese verbal noun '気絶 (きぜつ)' refers to the act of fainting or losing consciousness. It is often used to describe a sudden loss of consciousness due to shock, illness, or extreme emotional distress. For example: She fainted from the shock「彼女はショックで気絶した」(かのじょはショックできぜつした). The patient fainted during the procedure「患者は処置中に気絶した」(かんじゃはしょちちゅうにきぜつした). This term is commonly used in medical contexts or in situations where someone loses consciousness unexpectedly.
天気: "Weather". The Japanese noun '天気 (てんき)' means 'weather'. It refers to the state of the atmosphere at a particular place and time, including temperature, precipitation, and other meteorological conditions. This word is commonly used in everyday conversations to discuss or inquire about the weather. For example: The weather is nice today「今日は天気がいい」(きょうはてんきがいい). What will the weather be like tomorrow?「明日の天気はどうですか？」(あしたのてんきはどうですか？). It can also be used in expressions like 'good weather' (いい天気, いてんき) or 'bad weather' (悪い天気, わるいてんき).
本気: "Serious". The Japanese adjectival noun '本気 (ほんき)' means 'serious'. It is used to describe a genuine, earnest, or sincere attitude or state of mind. It often implies a lack of joking or superficiality. For example: He is serious about his studies「彼は勉強に本気です」(かれはべんきょうにほんきです). Are you serious?「本気ですか？」(ほんきですか？). It can also describe actions or situations that are done with full effort or commitment, such as '本気で頑張る (ほんきでがんばる) (to seriously try hard)'.
浮気: "Affair". The Japanese noun '浮気 (うわき)' refers to an extramarital affair or infidelity. It is used to describe a situation where someone is romantically or sexually involved with someone other than their partner. This term carries a negative connotation and is often associated with betrayal. For example: He had an affair「彼は浮気をした」(かれはうわきをした). She found out about her husband's affair「彼女は夫の浮気を知った」(かのじょはおとうとのうわきをしった). The word can also be used more broadly to describe a fleeting interest or flirtation, but this usage is less common and typically context-dependent.
強気: "Confident" or "Bullish". The Japanese adjectival noun '強気 (つよき)' primarily means 'confident' or 'bullish'. It is often used to describe a person's attitude or demeanor, indicating that they are assertive, bold, or optimistic. In financial contexts, it can describe a market trend that is expected to rise, hence the meaning 'bullish'. For example: He is very confident about the future「彼は将来について強気だ」(かれはしょうらいについてつよきだ). The market is bullish「市場は強気だ」(しじょうはつよきだ). This term is commonly used in both personal and professional settings to convey a strong, positive outlook.
弱気: "Timid". The Japanese adjectival noun '弱気 (よわき)' primarily means 'timid' or 'lacking confidence'. It is used to describe a person's attitude or behavior when they are hesitant, fearful, or unsure about taking action. This word often carries a nuance of being overly cautious or lacking assertiveness. For example: He is timid about making decisions「彼は決断に弱気だ」(かれはけつだんによわきだ). Don't be timid when negotiating「交渉に弱気になるな」(こうしょうによわきになるな). In some contexts, it can also refer to a pessimistic or bearish attitude in financial markets, but this usage is less common in everyday conversation.
遣る気: "Motivation". The Japanese noun '遣る気 (やるき)' means 'motivation' or 'willingness to do something'. It is often used to describe one's drive or enthusiasm to take action or complete a task. This word is commonly used in contexts related to work, studies, or personal goals. For example: I have no motivation today「今日は遣る気がない」(きょうはやるきがない). His motivation is impressive「彼の遣る気はすごい」(かれのやるきはすごい). The word can also be used in negative forms to express a lack of motivation, such as '遣る気が出ない (やるきがでない)' (I can't find the motivation).
気の毒: "Pitiful". The Japanese adjectival noun '気の毒 (きのどく)' means 'pitiful' or 'feeling sorry for someone'. It is used to express sympathy or compassion for someone's unfortunate situation. This word often conveys a sense of regret or sadness about another person's hardship. For example: I feel sorry for him「彼が気の毒だ」(かれがきのどくだ). It's a pity that she lost her job「彼女が仕事を失ったのは気の毒だ」(かのじょがしごとをうしなったのはきのどくだ). Note that '気の毒' is often used in situations where the speaker empathizes with someone else's misfortune.
平気: "Fine" or "Unfazed". The Japanese adjective '平気 (へいき)' can mean 'fine' or 'unfazed'. It is often used to describe a state of being calm, composed, or unaffected by a situation. For example: I'm fine「私は平気です」(わたしはへいきです). He was unfazed by the news「彼はその知らせに平気だった」(かれはそのしらせにへいきだった). This word can also imply a sense of indifference or being okay with something that might otherwise be troubling. It is commonly used in casual conversation to reassure others or to express one's own resilience.
生意気: "Cheeky". The Japanese adjectival noun '生意気 (なまいき)' means 'cheeky' or 'impertinent'. It is used to describe someone, often a younger person, who behaves in a way that is overly confident, arrogant, or disrespectful, especially when they lack the experience or status to justify such behavior. For example: That kid is so cheeky「あの子はとても生意気だ」(あのこはとてもなまいきだ). Don't be cheeky to your elders「年上に生意気なことを言うな」(としうえになまいきなことをいうな). The term carries a slightly negative connotation and is often used to scold or criticize someone for their attitude.
不景気: "Recession". The Japanese adjectival noun '不景気 (ふけいき)' refers to an economic recession or a state of economic downturn. It is commonly used to describe periods when the economy is performing poorly, with decreased business activity, high unemployment, and low consumer spending. For example: The country is in a recession「その国は不景気です」(そのくにはふけいきです). Many companies are struggling due to the recession「多くの会社が不景気で苦しんでいる」(おおくのかいしゃがふけいきでくるしんでいる). This term is often used in news reports, economic discussions, and everyday conversations about financial difficulties.
気温: "Temperature". The Japanese noun '気温 (きおん)' refers to the temperature of the air or atmosphere. It is commonly used in weather forecasts, daily conversations, and scientific contexts to describe how hot or cold the environment is. For example: The temperature is high today「今日は気温が高い」(きょうはきおんがたかい). The temperature dropped suddenly「気温が急に下がった」(きおんがきゅうにさがった). This word is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal settings.
気候: "Climate". The Japanese noun '気候 (きこう)' refers to the 'climate' of a region, encompassing long-term weather patterns, temperature, humidity, and other atmospheric conditions. It is commonly used in discussions about geography, environmental science, or everyday conversations about the weather. For example: The climate of Japan is temperate「日本の気候は温和です」(にほんのきこうはおんわです). The climate in this region is harsh「この地域の気候は厳しいです」(このちいきのきこうはきびしいです). Note that '気候' is distinct from '天気 (てんき)', which refers to short-term weather conditions.
低気圧: "Low pressure". The Japanese noun '低気圧 (ていきあつ)' refers to a 'low-pressure system' in meteorology. It is commonly used to describe weather conditions associated with such systems, which often bring cloudy skies, rain, and sometimes storms. In a more figurative sense, it can also describe a tense or oppressive atmosphere in social or emotional contexts. For example: The low-pressure system is approaching「低気圧が近づいている」(ていきあつがちかづいている). The meeting had a low-pressure atmosphere「会議は低気圧な雰囲気だった」(かいぎはていきあつなふんいきだっ た).
湯気: "Steam". The Japanese noun '湯気 (ゆげ)' refers to 'steam' or 'vapor', specifically the visible mist that rises from hot water or other heated liquids. It is commonly used in everyday contexts, such as when describing steam from a hot bath, tea, or food. For example: The steam from the hot spring is warm「温泉の湯気は温かい」(おんせんのゆげはあたたかい). Steam is rising from the cup of tea「湯気がお茶のカップから立ち上っている」(ゆげがおちゃのカップからたちあがっている). This word is often associated with warmth and comfort, particularly in Japanese culture, where hot baths and tea are deeply ingrained.
無邪気: "Innocent". The Japanese adjectival noun '無邪気 (むじゃき)' means 'innocent' and is used to describe someone who is pure, naive, or free from malice. It often conveys a sense of childlike simplicity or lack of guile. For example: She has an innocent smile「彼女は無邪気な笑顔をしている」(かのじょはむじゃきなえがおをしている). Children are naturally innocent「子供は無邪気だ」(こどもはむじゃきだ). This word is commonly used to describe behavior, expressions, or attitudes that are free from deceit or ulterior motives.
To make really sure you learn this Kanji, I've prepared an interactive lesson for you. You are going to learn the readings and meanings of this kanji.
But first, you need to know a little bit about Hiragana and Katakana.
Hiragana and katakana are japanese syllabaries, this means that each character represents a syllable.
This are the characters you need to know for this lesson:
The hiragana "き" is read as "ki". And The hiragana "け" is read as "ke".
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