{"id":1738,"date":"2025-02-20T15:30:05","date_gmt":"2025-02-20T15:30:05","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.joyokanjikai.com\/learning-japanese\/?p=1738"},"modified":"2025-02-20T15:37:04","modified_gmt":"2025-02-20T15:37:04","slug":"the-top-100-most-common-and-useful-kanji-to-learn-for-everyday-japanese-language-learners","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.joyokanjikai.com\/learning-japanese\/the-top-100-most-common-and-useful-kanji-to-learn-for-everyday-japanese-language-learners\/","title":{"rendered":"The Top 100 Most Common (and Useful) Kanji To Learn For Everyday Japanese Language Learners"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Learning kanji<\/a> can be one of the most challenging parts of learning Japanese, especially for beginners. This post introduces 100 of the most useful and commonly seen kanji in everyday Japanese. These are foundational characters you\u2019ll encounter in signs, menus, labels, dates, and basic vocabulary. Mastering them will give you a strong start in reading Japanese.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Each kanji entry below includes its meaning, common On\u2019yomi<\/em> (Chinese-origin reading) and Kun\u2019yomi<\/em> (Japanese-origin reading) pronunciations, an example word (with translation) showing the kanji in context, and a mnemonic or memory tip to help you remember it. We\u2019ve organized the kanji into practical categories (numbers, time, people\/things, places\/directions, verbs, and adjectives) so that you can see related characters together. Let\u2019s dive in!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Numbers and Counting<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Numbers are a fundamental place to start. In daily life you\u2019ll use them for counting, telling time, dates, prices, and more. The kanji for 1, 2, 3 are very simple (one line, two lines, three lines), and the rest build on common patterns. Knowing these will help with reading things like dates (e.g. 2025\u5e7412\u670831\u65e5) or counting items. Note: In modern Japan, Arabic numerals (1, 2, 3, …) are often used, but you still need to know these kanji, especially for things like yen currency or formal writing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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  1. \u4e00<\/a> (One)<\/strong>: This kanji means \u201cone\u201d \u2014 a single unit. It\u2019s included because it\u2019s the simplest kanji and the basis for all other numbers.<\/p>

    On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30a4\u30c1 (ichi<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3072\u3068 (hito<\/em>), \u3072\u3068\u3064 (hitotsu<\/em>)<\/p>

    Example word:<\/strong> \u4e00\u4eba (\u3072\u3068\u308a, hitori<\/em>) \u2013 one person, alone<\/p>

    Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u4e00 is just one horizontal line \u2014 it looks like the number 1. Imagine it as one stick or one pencil. It\u2019s so simple that it\u2019s easy to remember as \u201cone.\u201d<\/p>
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  2. \u4e8c<\/a> (Two)<\/strong>: The kanji for \u201ctwo.\u201d Two is fundamental for counting and appears in dates and quantities.<\/p>

    On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30cb (ni<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3075\u305f (futa<\/em>), \u3075\u305f\u3064 (futatsu<\/em>)<\/p>

    Example word:<\/strong> \u4e8c\u4eba (\u3075\u305f\u308a, futari<\/em>) \u2013 two people, a pair<\/p>

    Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u4e8c is two horizontal lines, one on top of the other. Think \u201ctwo equals lines = two.\u201d Also, ni<\/em> sounds like \u201cknee\u201d \u2013 you have two knees.<\/p>
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  3. \u4e09<\/a> (Three)<\/strong>: The kanji for \u201cthree.\u201d Another basic number you\u2019ll use everywhere.<\/p>

    On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30b5\u30f3 (san<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u307f (mi<\/em>), \u307f\u3063\u3064 (mittsu<\/em>)<\/p>

    Example word:<\/strong> \u4e09\u65e5 (\u307f\u3063\u304b, mikka<\/em>) \u2013 third day of the month \/ three days<\/p>

    Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u4e09 is three lines. It\u2019s basically just like one (\u4e00) and two (\u4e8c) with an extra line. You can remember san<\/em> by thinking of a tricycle (three wheels) and saying \u201cthree<\/strong>, two, one, sun<\/strong>!\u201d (a bit of wordplay with \u201csan\u201d sounding like \u201csun\u201d).<\/p>
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  4. \u56db<\/a> (Four)<\/strong>: The kanji for \u201cfour.\u201d This one is important and also culturally interesting (the sound \u201cshi\u201d is avoided by some because it sounds like the word for death).<\/p>

    On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30b7 (shi<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3088\u3093 (yon<\/em>), \u3088\u3063 (yo<\/em>)<\/p>

    Example word:<\/strong> \u56db\u6708 (\u3057\u304c\u3064, shigatsu<\/em>) \u2013 April (the 4th month) (note: uses the \u201cshi\u201d reading)<\/em><\/p>

    Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u56db looks a bit like a window divided into four panes. Imagine looking out a window split into four sections \u2013 that\u2019s \u201cfour.\u201d Remember that shi<\/em> (4) sounds like the word for \u201cdeath\u201d in Japanese, so people often say yon<\/em> instead when counting \u2013 perhaps to avoid \u201cdeathly\u201d connotations!<\/p>
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  5. \u4e94<\/a> (Five)<\/strong>: The kanji for \u201cfive.\u201d Halfway to ten, and used in dates (May is \u4e94\u6708) and counting.<\/p>

    On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30b4 (go<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3044\u3064 (itsu<\/em>), \u3044\u3064\u3064 (itsutsu<\/em>)<\/p>

    Example word:<\/strong> \u4e94\u6708 (\u3054\u304c\u3064, gogatsu<\/em>) \u2013 May (the 5th month)<\/p>

    Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u4e94 doesn\u2019t obviously resemble the numeral 5, but here\u2019s a trick: The On\u2019yomi go<\/em> sounds like the English \u201cgo.\u201d Think of a race countdown: \u201c5-4-3-2-1\u2026 go!\u201d This can remind you that 5 = go<\/em>. You might also imagine giving a \u201chigh five\u201d and telling someone \u201cgo!\u201d<\/p>
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  6. \u516d<\/a> (Six)<\/strong>: The kanji for \u201csix.\u201d Common in dates (June = \u516d\u6708) and other counts.<\/p>

    On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30ed\u30af (roku<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3080\u3063\u3064 (muttsu<\/em>), \u3080\u3044 (mui<\/em>)<\/p>

    Example word:<\/strong> \u516d\u3064 (\u3080\u3063\u3064, muttsu<\/em>) \u2013 six (things) (generic counting)<\/em><\/p>

    Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u516d looks a little like a roof or a hat on top (^) with something underneath. You can imagine six people under one roof (like a family of six) \u2013 a house full of six people. Another way: roku<\/em> sounds like \u201crock.\u201d Think of a six-sided die made of rock to remember 6.<\/p>
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  7. \u4e03<\/a> (Seven)<\/strong>: The kanji for \u201cseven.\u201d Used in dates (July = \u4e03\u6708) and counts.<\/p>

    On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30b7\u30c1 (shichi<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u306a\u306a (nana<\/em>), \u306a\u306a\u3064 (nanatsu<\/em>)<\/p>

    Example word:<\/strong> \u4e03\u5915 (\u305f\u306a\u3070\u305f, Tanabata<\/em>) \u2013 Tanabata festival on July 7 (literally \u201cEvening of the Seventh\u201d)<\/p>

    Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u4e03 looks a bit like the number 7 with a small slash through it. In fact, if you tilt it, it\u2019s similar to how some people write 7. To recall shichi<\/em>, you might think \u201cseven-inch (shichi) tape\u201d (sounds silly, but it rhymes). Also remember that Japanese often say nana<\/em> for 7 in daily counting, even though the Chinese reading is shichi<\/em>.<\/p>
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  8. \u516b<\/a> (Eight)<\/strong>: The kanji for \u201ceight.\u201d Used in dates (August = \u516b\u6708) and many expressions (like \u516b\u767e\u5c4b for greengrocer, literally \u201c800 store\u201d).<\/p>

    On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30cf\u30c1 (hachi<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3084 (ya<\/em>), \u3084\u3063\u3064 (yattsu<\/em>)<\/p>

    Example word:<\/strong> \u516b\u65e5 (\u3088\u3046\u304b, youka<\/em>) \u2013 8th day of the month \/ eight days<\/p>

    Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u516b looks like two lines spreading apart, almost like an upside-down letter V. You can imagine it as two wide-open gates or arms, as if saying \u201cwelcome all eight directions.\u201d Another hint: The katakana \u30cf (ha) looks exactly like \u516b, and hachi<\/em> starts with \u201cha.\u201d Think \u201c\u516b (\u30cf) for hachi.\u201d<\/p>
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  9. \u4e5d<\/a> (Nine)<\/strong>: The kanji for \u201cnine.\u201d Appears in dates (September = \u4e5d\u6708) and counts.<\/p>

    On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30ad\u30e5\u30a6 (ky\u016b<\/em>), \u30af (ku<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3053\u3053\u306e\u3064 (kokonotsu<\/em>)<\/p>

    Example word:<\/strong> \u4e5d\u6642 (\u304f\u3058, ku-ji<\/em>) \u2013 nine o\u2019clock (9:00) (uses the \u201cku\u201d reading)<\/em><\/p>

    Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u4e5d looks a bit like a stylized \u201c9.\u201d It\u2019s almost as if someone started to draw the number 9 and then curved off. To remember the reading ky\u016b<\/em>, think of a cat with nine lives saying, \u201cThank you (ky\u016b<\/em>) for my lives!\u201d Alternatively, note that ku<\/em> (another reading for 9) sounds like the Japanese word for \u201cpain\u201d or \u201cdistress\u201d (\u82e6), so some people consider 9 slightly unlucky as well \u2013 but not as much as 4.<\/p>
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  10. \u5341<\/a> (Ten)<\/strong>: The kanji for \u201cten.\u201d A very common number (October = \u5341\u6708, etc.) and used in combinations like 100 (\u767e) or 1000 (\u5343) as a component.<\/p>

    On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30b8\u30e5\u30a6 (j\u016b<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3068\u304a (t\u014d<\/em>)<\/p>

    Example word:<\/strong> \u5341\u65e5 (\u3068\u304a\u304b, t\u014dka<\/em>) \u2013 10th day of the month \/ ten days<\/p>

    Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u5341 looks like a plus sign or a cross. It\u2019s like you\u2019ve counted to ten and made a cross mark to complete a tally. You can think of it as two hands (five fingers each) crossing to give you ten. It\u2019s simple: a cross for the number ten (the Roman numeral X is also ten).<\/p>
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  11. \u767e<\/a> (Hundred)<\/strong>: The kanji for \u201chundred.\u201d Used in numbers like 100 (\u767e), 300 (\u4e09\u767e), etc., and in words like \u767e\u8ca8\u5e97 (department store).<\/p>

    On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30d2\u30e3\u30af (hyaku<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> (none common)<\/em><\/p>

    Example word:<\/strong> \u767e\u5186 (\u3072\u3083\u304f\u3048\u3093, hyaku-en<\/em>) \u2013 100 yen<\/p>

    Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u767e looks a bit like the kanji \u767d (white) with an extra line on top. A popular mnemonic: if you live to be a hundred, your hair turns white! So \u767e (100) is \u201cwhite (\u767d) + one (\u4e00)\u201d \u2013 think of a 100-year-old person with one white hair. Remember hyaku<\/em> by imagining \u201chyak!\u201d as the sound of surprise when you see 100 of something.<\/p>
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  12. \u5343<\/a> (Thousand)<\/strong>: The kanji for \u201cthousand.\u201d Used in prices (\u5343\u5186 = 1000 yen), years (\u5343\u5e74 = a thousand years), etc.<\/p>

    On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30bb\u30f3 (sen<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3061 (chi<\/em>)<\/p>

    Example word:<\/strong> \u5343\u5186 (\u305b\u3093\u3048\u3093, sen-en<\/em>) \u2013 1000 yen<\/p>

    Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u5343 looks like the kanji for ten (\u5341) with a little extra stroke at the top. Imagine ten (10) with something small added to make it a thousand. It also closely resembles the katakana character \u30c1 (\u201cchi\u201d). Don\u2019t get confused \u2013 the katakana \u201cchi\u201d (\u30c1) and this kanji for thousand (\u5343, pronounced sen<\/em>) look almost the same. A trick: \u5343 has that tiny upward flick on the top line, representing an extra \u201czero\u201d on ten. Picture the number 1000 as 10 with an extra 0.<\/p>
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  13. \u4e07<\/a> (Ten thousand)<\/strong>: The kanji for \u201c10,000\u201d (ten thousand). In Japanese, 10,000 is a unit (called man<\/em>), so you\u2019ll see this kanji in large numbers and prices (e.g., \u4e00\u4e07\u5186 = 10,000 yen). It also symbolizes \u201cmany\u201d in some words.<\/p>

    On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30de\u30f3 (man<\/em>), \u30d0\u30f3 (ban<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> (none common)<\/em><\/p>

    Example word:<\/strong> \u4e00\u4e07\u5186 (\u3044\u3061\u307e\u3093\u3048\u3093, ichi-man en<\/em>) \u2013 10,000 yen (ten thousand yen)<\/p>

    Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u4e07 might look complex, but you can see it as a combination of \u4e00 (one) and a shape like \u5915 (evening). Imagine an evening sky full of countless stars \u2013 \u201cten thousand\u201d of them. Also remember, Japanese counts in units of 10,000. So 20,000 is 2\u4e07, 30,000 is 3\u4e07, etc. A fun fact: \u4e07\u5e74\u7b46 (mannenhitsu<\/em>, literally \u201cten-thousand year brush\u201d) means \u201cfountain pen.\u201d They say a fountain pen lasts so long it could write for 10,000 years!<\/p>
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  14. \u5186<\/a> (Yen \/ Circle)<\/strong>: This kanji means \u201cyen\u201d (the Japanese currency) and also \u201ccircle\u201d or \u201cround.\u201d You\u2019ll see it on price tags and receipts all the time (often written after a number, e.g., 500\u5186).<\/p>

    On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30a8\u30f3 (en<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u307e\u308b (maru<\/em>) [as \u4e38\u3044, round]<\/p>

    Example word:<\/strong> \u767e\u5186 (\u3072\u3083\u304f\u3048\u3093, hyaku-en<\/em>) \u2013 100 yen (literally \u201c100 yen\u201d)<\/p>

    Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u5186 is basically a round shape (a small box with a line), fitting since it means \u201ccircle.\u201d Think of a coin \u2013 coins are round, and yen are the currency. You can remember the pronunciation en<\/em> by the word \u201cyen\u201d itself (which is pronounced \u201cen\u201d in Japanese). So \u5186 = yen = a round coin.<\/p>
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    Time and Dates<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

    These kanji relate to time: days, months, years, and general time words. They often combine with numbers to form dates and time expressions. For example, you\u2019ll combine numbers with \u6708 to make months (\u4e00\u6708 = January, \u4e8c\u6708 = February, etc.), or with \u65e5 to make days of the month. Knowing these helps you read calendars, schedules, and talk about time (today, tomorrow, next week, last year, etc.). We include them here right after numbers because you frequently use them together (e.g., \u201c3\u670814\u65e5\u201d for March 14th).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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    1. \u65e5<\/a> (Day; Sun)<\/strong>: Means \u201cday\u201d or \u201csun.\u201d This is one of the most common kanji in Japanese. You\u2019ll see it in words for days of the week, dates, and anything related to the sun or day.<\/p>

      On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30cb\u30c1 (nichi<\/em>), \u30b8\u30c4 (jitsu<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3072 (hi<\/em>), \u304b (ka<\/em>)<\/p>

      Example word:<\/strong> \u65e5\u672c (\u306b\u307b\u3093, Nihon<\/em>) \u2013 Japan (lit. \u201cSun origin\u201d)<\/p>

      Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u65e5 looks like a square with a line in the middle \u2013 it resembles the sun. You can imagine it as the sun as seen through a window. It\u2019s easy to remember as a picture of the sun, meaning \u201cday\/sun.\u201d Japan (\u65e5\u672c) is called the \u201cLand of the Rising Sun,\u201d and indeed the kanji \u65e5 is right there in its name.<\/p>
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    2. \u9031<\/a> (Week)<\/strong>: Means \u201cweek.\u201d You\u2019ll use this in words like \u201cthis week,\u201d \u201cnext week,\u201d etc., and to count weeks.<\/p>

      On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30b7\u30e5\u30a6 (sh\u016b<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> (none common)<\/em><\/p>

      Example word:<\/strong> \u6765\u9031 (\u3089\u3044\u3057\u3085\u3046, raish\u016b<\/em>) \u2013 next week (\u6765 means \u201ccoming\/next\u201d)<\/p>

      Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u9031 is made up of \u5468 (which means \u201cto go around\u201d) with a movement radical on the side (\u8fb6, like a road). Think of a week as something that \u201cgoes around\u201d in a cycle. Imagine running laps for seven days \u2013 that\u2019s a week going around. The shape can remind you of an enclosure (\u5468) being circled, symbolizing one week.<\/p>
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    3. \u6708<\/a> (Month; Moon)<\/strong>: Means \u201cmonth\u201d or \u201cmoon.\u201d Used for the months of the year and also literally the moon.<\/p>

      On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30b2\u30c4 (getsu<\/em>), \u30ac\u30c4 (gatsu<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3064\u304d (tsuki<\/em>)<\/p>

      Example word:<\/strong> \u6708 (\u3064\u304d, tsuki<\/em>) \u2013 the moon<\/p>

      Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u6708 looks a bit like a crescent moon with two vertical lines. In fact, it originates from a pictograph of the moon. You can remember that it means both \u201cmonth\u201d and \u201cmoon\u201d because traditionally months were tied to the lunar cycle. Picture the shape as a moon in the sky and you\u2019ll recall tsuki<\/em> (moon).<\/p>
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    4. \u5e74<\/a> (Year)<\/strong>: Means \u201cyear\u201d (as in 2025\u5e74 for year 2025, or \u5e74 as a counter for years). This kanji appears in dates and ages (like \u4e8c\u5341\u5e74 = 20 years).<\/p>

      On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30cd\u30f3 (nen<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3068\u3057 (toshi<\/em>)<\/p>

      Example word:<\/strong> \u6765\u5e74 (\u3089\u3044\u306d\u3093, rainen<\/em>) \u2013 next year<\/p>

      Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u5e74 looks a little complex. You can break it down: the top part resembles a roof or a crop, and the bottom looks like a person (\u4eba). One way to remember it: imagine a farmer harvesting rice once a year. The kanji can be seen as a person carrying a harvest on their back \u2013 a yearly harvest. To remember nen<\/em>, think of \u201cnew year\u201d \u2013 both words start with an \u201cne\u201d sound.<\/p>
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    5. \u6642<\/a> (Time; Hour)<\/strong>: Means \u201ctime\u201d or \u201co\u2019clock\/hour\u201d when paired with numbers. You\u2019ll see it on clocks (\u6642\u523b) and in words like \u6642\u9593 (time span) or \u6642\u4ee3 (era).<\/p>

      On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30b8 (ji<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3068\u304d (toki<\/em>)<\/p>

      Example word:<\/strong> \u6642\u9593 (\u3058\u304b\u3093, jikan<\/em>) \u2013 time, hours (\u6642\u9593 literally \u201ctime interval\u201d)<\/p>

      Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u6642 is composed of \u65e5 (sun\/day) on the left and \u5bfa (temple) on the right. Think: \u201cthe time is told by the sun at the temple.\u201d In old Japan, temples would ring bells to announce the time of day. So if you remember sun + temple = time, you\u2019ll remember \u6642. Also, when you see a number + \u6642 (like 5\u6642), read it as \u201c5 o\u2019clock\u201d (go-ji<\/em>).<\/p>
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    6. \u9593<\/a> (Interval; Between)<\/strong>: Means \u201cinterval,\u201d \u201cspan,\u201d or \u201cbetween.\u201d It often appears as a suffix to mean a span of time (\uff5e\u9593), or literally a space between things.<\/p>

      On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30ab\u30f3 (kan<\/em>), \u30b1\u30f3 (ken<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3042\u3044\u3060 (aida<\/em>), \u307e (ma<\/em>)<\/p>

      Example word:<\/strong> \u9593 (\u3042\u3044\u3060, aida<\/em>) \u2013 interval, gap, between<\/p>

      Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u9593 has \u9580 (gate) on the outside and \u65e5 (sun) in the middle. Picture the sun peeking through the slats of a gate or door. The sun between the gates suggests the idea of \u201cbetween\u201d or an \u201cinterval of time\u201d (like sunlight between two doors). So \u9593 is literally \u201csun between gates\u201d \u2013 an interval. This should remind you of the meaning \u201cbetween\/time span.\u201d<\/p>
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    7. \u5206<\/a> (Minute; To divide)<\/strong>: Means \u201cminute\u201d (as in time) or \u201cto divide\/part.\u201d It\u2019s used for minutes in time (e.g., 5\u5206 = 5 minutes) and in words like \u81ea\u5206 (oneself) or \u5206\u304b\u308b (wakaru, to understand, literally to separate meaning).<\/p>

      On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30d6\u30f3 (bun<\/em>), \u30d5\u30f3 (fun<\/em>) [often pronounced -pun\/-fun<\/em> after numbers]; Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u308f\u30fb\u3051\u308b (wa(keru)<\/em>)<\/p>

      Example word:<\/strong> \u4e94\u5206 (\u3054\u3075\u3093, go-fun<\/em>) \u2013 five minutes<\/p>

      Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u5206 contains the knife\/cut radical (\u5202) on the right. Think of cutting or dividing something. A minute is a \u201cfraction\u201d of an hour, a tiny part that you cut out from 60. So \u5206 = a knife dividing time or things into smaller parts. It also helps to know that when telling time, 1\u5206 (\u3044\u3063\u3077\u3093), 2\u5206 (\u306b\u3075\u3093), 5\u5206 (\u3054\u3075\u3093) etc., use the fun\/pun<\/em> reading.<\/p>
      <\/li>\n\n\n\n

    8. \u5348<\/a> (Noon)<\/strong>: Means \u201cnoon.\u201d You\u2019ll see it in \u5348\u524d (A.M., literally \u201cbefore noon\u201d) and \u5348\u5f8c (P.M., \u201cafter noon\u201d). It\u2019s also the Chinese zodiac sign for \u201chorse,\u201d which corresponds to the hour of noon.<\/p>

      On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30b4 (go<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> (none common)<\/em><\/p>

      Example word:<\/strong> \u5348\u524d (\u3054\u305c\u3093, gozen<\/em>) \u2013 A.M., morning (literally \u201cbefore noon\u201d)<\/p>

      Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u5348 is a bit abstract looking. One way to remember it is through words: \u5348\u524d (gozen) and \u5348\u5f8c (gogo) use \u5348. So if you remember those words for AM and PM, you\u2019ll remember \u5348 means \u201cnoon\u201d as the dividing point. As a shape, \u5348 slightly resembles the top of a clock hand pointing at 12. Think of the clock striking noon.<\/p>
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    9. \u524d<\/a> (Before; Front)<\/strong>: Means \u201cbefore\u201d or \u201cin front.\u201d It\u2019s used for time (e.g., before now) and space (the front of something). Common in words like \u5348\u524d (gozen, A.M., \u201cbefore noon\u201d) and \u540d\u524d (namae, \u201cname,\u201d literally \u201cfront of name\u201d or given name).<\/p>

      On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30bc\u30f3 (zen<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u307e\u3048 (mae<\/em>)<\/p>

      Example word:<\/strong> \u524d (\u307e\u3048, mae<\/em>) \u2013 front, before (as a noun, e.g., \u201c\u5e97\u306e\u524d\u201d means \u201cin front of the store\u201d)<\/p>

      Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u524d is composed of \u6b62 (a foot\/stop) and \u5202 (knife\/cut) components. You might imagine someone coming to a stop in front of a line where a knife marks \u201cstop here.\u201d It\u2019s a bit abstract, but think of \u524d as anything that comes before. To recall the reading mae<\/em>, you can use a phrase: \u201cStep mae<\/strong> (my) front door, that\u2019s before entering.\u201d It sounds like \u201cmy,\u201d which can remind you of \u201cin front of me.\u201d<\/p>
      <\/li>\n\n\n\n

    10. \u5f8c<\/a> (After; Behind)<\/strong>: Means \u201cafter,\u201d \u201clater,\u201d or \u201cbehind.\u201d It\u2019s the opposite of \u524d. You see it in \u5348\u5f8c (gogo, P.M., \u201cafternoon\u201d = after noon) and \u5f8c\u3067 (atode, \u201clater\u201d).<\/p>

      On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30b4 (go<\/em>), \u30b3\u30a6 (k\u014d<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3042\u3068 (ato<\/em>), \u3046\u3057\u30fb\u308d (ushiro<\/em>)<\/p>

      Example word:<\/strong> \u5348\u5f8c (\u3054\u3054, gogo<\/em>) \u2013 P.M., afternoon (literally \u201cafter noon\u201d)<\/p>

      Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u5f8c has a step or stride radical (\u5f73) on the left, suggesting movement, and a smaller element on the right (\u5e7a) which can look like a small person lagging behind. Think of \u5f8c as someone walking behind you \u2013 that\u2019s \u201cbehind\/after.\u201d For ato<\/em>, just remember the common phrase \u307e\u305f\u5f8c\u3067 (mata ato de<\/em>) meaning \u201csee you later.\u201d It\u2019s the word for \u201clater.\u201d<\/p>
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    11. \u4eca<\/a> (Now)<\/strong>: Means \u201cnow\u201d or \u201cthe present.\u201d Extremely common in words like \u4eca\u9031 (konsh\u016b, this week), \u4eca\u65e5 (ky\u014d, today), and \u4eca (ima, now).<\/p>

      On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30b3\u30f3 (kon<\/em>), \u30ad\u30f3 (kin<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3044\u307e (ima<\/em>)<\/p>

      Example word:<\/strong> \u4eca (\u3044\u307e, ima<\/em>) \u2013 now, right now<\/p>

      Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u4eca looks like it has a person (\u4eba) under a roof with a line. You can imagine someone spreading their arms saying \u201cRight now!\u201d under a roof. To remember the meaning, think \u201c\u4eca\u3059\u3050\u201d (ima sugu<\/em>) which means \u201cright now, immediately.\u201d The reading ima<\/em> is itself a very common word for \u201cnow.\u201d So just remember \u4eca = ima = now.<\/p>
      <\/li>\n\n\n\n

    12. \u5148<\/a> (Ahead; Previous)<\/strong>: Means \u201cahead,\u201d \u201cprevious,\u201d or \u201cformer.\u201d You find it in words like \u5148\u751f (sensei, teacher \u2013 literally \u201cearlier born\u201d), \u5148\u9031 (sensh\u016b, last week), \u5148\u306b (saki ni, ahead\/first).<\/p>

      On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30bb\u30f3 (sen<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3055\u304d (saki<\/em>)<\/p>

      Example word:<\/strong> \u5148\u751f (\u305b\u3093\u305b\u3044, sensei<\/em>) \u2013 teacher (literally \u201cprevious-born,\u201d one who came before in knowledge)<\/p>

      Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u5148 shows a character that looks like a person moving forward (the lower part looks like legs, \u513f). Think of someone at the front of the line \u2013 that\u2019s \u201cahead.\u201d A teacher (\u5148\u751f) is someone who goes ahead of you in life or knowledge, which is why \u5148 is in that word. To recall sen<\/em>, remember that sensei (teacher) starts with sen-, and a teacher is ahead of students.<\/p>
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    13. \u6765<\/a> (To come; Next)<\/strong>: Means \u201cto come\u201d or indicates future (as a prefix meaning \u201cnext\u2026\u201d). As a verb \u6765\u308b (kuru) means \u201cto come.\u201d As an prefix like \u6765\u9031 (raish\u016b) it means \u201cnext\u201d (next week).<\/p>

      On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30e9\u30a4 (rai<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u304f\u30fb\u308b (ku(ru)<\/em>)<\/p>

      Example word:<\/strong> \u6765\u308b (\u304f\u308b, kuru<\/em>) \u2013 to come<\/p>

      Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u6765 looks like a plant or tree with more strokes (it was originally a pictograph of wheat). You can imagine it as a plant that will come to bloom in the future. Think \u201cthe time to come, the upcoming future.\u201d To remember the word, note that \u6765\u9031 (raish\u016b) is next week, \u6765\u5e74 (rainen) is next year. The kun\u2019yomi kuru<\/em> (to come) is a very common verb. Maybe think \u201cCome here, Kurt<\/strong>!\u201d (sounds like kuru<\/em>) as a silly sound mnemonic.<\/p>
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    14. \u534a<\/a> (Half)<\/strong>: Means \u201chalf.\u201d You\u2019ll see it in \u534a\u5206 (hanbun, half) and time expressions like \u4e8c\u6642\u534a (ni-ji han, 2:30, literally \u201c2 o\u2019clock half\u201d).<\/p>

      On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30cf\u30f3 (han<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u306a\u304b\u30fb\u3070 (naka(ba)<\/em>)<\/p>

      Example word:<\/strong> \u534a\u5206 (\u306f\u3093\u3076\u3093, hanbun<\/em>) \u2013 half<\/p>

      Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u534a looks like it\u2019s been cut in half! The top part is \u516b (which means \u201ceight\u201d or can imply splitting) and the bottom is a small element. Think of \u534a as literally a thing split into two halves. An easy example: \u201chalf past two\u201d is 2\u6642\u534a (\u306b\u3058\u306f\u3093), so you\u2019ll often hear han<\/em> for \u201chalf\u201d in time. To remember \u534a, think of slicing a pie in half \u2014 the kanji itself looks a bit like something split.<\/p>
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    15. \u6bce<\/a> (Every)<\/strong>: Means \u201cevery\u201d or \u201ceach.\u201d Common in words like \u6bce\u65e5 (mainichi, every day), \u6bce\u9031 (maish\u016b, every week), \u6bce\u5e74 (maitoshi or mainen, every year).<\/p>

      On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30de\u30a4 (mai<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> (none common)<\/em><\/p>

      Example word:<\/strong> \u6bce\u65e5 (\u307e\u3044\u306b\u3061, mainichi<\/em>) \u2013 every day<\/p>

      Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u6bce looks similar to the kanji for \u201cmother\u201d (\u6bcd) but without the bottom dot. You can imagine that a mother (\u6bcd) is there every day, every week, doing things for the family \u2013 take off a bit (the bottom dot) and you have \u6bce, meaning \u201cevery.\u201d Another way: just memorize \u6bce\u65e5 (every day) and \u6bce\u9031 (every week). Seeing \u6bce in those common words will remind you that \u6bce means \u201cevery.\u201d<\/p>
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    16. \u4f55<\/a> (What)<\/strong>: This kanji means \u201cwhat.\u201d You see it in the question word \u4f55? (What?) as well as combinations like \u4f55\u6642 (nanji, what time), \u4f55\u4eba (nannin, how many people \/ also nanijin, what nationality, depending on context).<\/p>

      On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30ab (ka<\/em>) [used in compounds\/question particle]; Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u306a\u306b (nani<\/em>), \u306a\u3093 (nan<\/em>)<\/p>

      Example word:<\/strong> \u4f55 (\u306a\u306b, nani<\/em>) \u2013 what<\/p>

      Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u4f55 has the radical \u4ebb (person) on the left and \u53ef (possible) on the right. You might think of it as \u201cwhat is a person capable of?\u201d which is a bit philosophical. Instead, imagine a person with a big question mark next to them. The shape \u53ef looks like an open mouth, as if saying \u201cEh? What?\u201d Remember the phrase \u4f55\u3067\u3059\u304b (nan desu ka?) \u2013 \u201cWhat is it?\u201d The sound nani<\/em> or nan<\/em> is familiar from anime (\u201cNani?!\u201d meaning \u201cWhat?!\u201d). That\u2019s this kanji.<\/p>
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      People & Common Things<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

      This category covers kanji for people, family, basic elements of nature, and everyday objects or concepts. These are very frequently used characters. Many of them are radicals or building blocks for more complex kanji, so learning them will pay off later. You\u2019ll also notice some kanji here double as the names of the days of the week (\u706b, \u6c34, \u6728, \u91d1, \u571f correspond to Tuesday through Saturday), as well as basics like \u201cperson,\u201d \u201ctree,\u201d \u201cwater,\u201d etc. We include body parts like \u201chand\u201d and \u201ceye\u201d too, since those appear often in compound words and signs (e.g., \u201cexit\u201d has mouth \u53e3). Each of these kanji is included because you\u2019ll encounter it regularly in daily life or in beginner-level vocabulary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        \n

      1. \u4eba<\/a> (Person)<\/strong>: Means \u201cperson\u201d or \u201cpeople.\u201d This is one of the most essential kanji. It appears in countless words: nationalities (\u65e5\u672c\u4eba \u2013 Japanese person), populations (\u4eba\u53e3), counters for people (\uff5e\u4eba), etc.<\/p>

        On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30b8\u30f3 (jin<\/em>), \u30cb\u30f3 (nin<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3072\u3068 (hito<\/em>)<\/p>

        Example word:<\/strong> \u65e5\u672c\u4eba (\u306b\u307b\u3093\u3058\u3093, Nihon-jin<\/em>) \u2013 Japanese person<\/p>

        Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u4eba looks like a simple stick figure or someone standing\/walking (like two legs). It literally is a pictograph of a human being. That makes it easy to remember: it\u2019s a person! When you see \u201c\uff5e\u4eba\u201d at the end of a country name, it means a person of that country (e.g., \u30a2\u30e1\u30ea\u30ab\u4eba for American). Just visualize the kanji as a little person icon.<\/p>
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      2. \u7537<\/a> (Man; Male)<\/strong>: Means \u201cmale\u201d or \u201cman.\u201d You see it in words like \u7537\u6027 (dansei, male gender), \u7537\u306e\u5b50 (otoko-no-ko, boy), \u9577\u7537 (ch\u014dnan, eldest son).<\/p>

        On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30c0\u30f3 (dan<\/em>), \u30ca\u30f3 (nan<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u304a\u3068\u3053 (otoko<\/em>)<\/p>

        Example word:<\/strong> \u7537\u306e\u5b50 (\u304a\u3068\u3053\u306e\u3053, otoko-no-ko<\/em>) \u2013 boy (male child)<\/p>

        Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u7537 is made up of \u7530 (rice field) on top and \u529b (power\/strength) on bottom. Think of a man working powerfully in the rice field \u2013 traditionally, men did heavy field labor. The image of strength (\u529b) under a rice paddy connects to \u201cmale.\u201d Also, \u304a\u3068\u3053 sounds like \u201coh! Toko!\u201d (just a silly phrase) but you can remember the word \u7537\u306e\u4eba (otoko no hito) means \u201cman.\u201d The kanji itself kind of looks like a person (\u529b resembles a muscular arm) under the sun, toiling in a field.<\/p>
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      3. \u5973<\/a> (Woman; Female)<\/strong>: Means \u201cfemale\u201d or \u201cwoman.\u201d Found in words like \u5973\u6027 (josei, female), \u5973\u306e\u5b50 (onna-no-ko, girl), \u5f7c\u5973 (kanojo, she or girlfriend).<\/p>

        On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30b8\u30e7 (jo<\/em>), \u30cb\u30e7 (nyo<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u304a\u3093\u306a (onna<\/em>), \u3081 (me<\/em> [in compounds])<\/p>

        Example word:<\/strong> \u5973\u306e\u5b50 (\u304a\u3093\u306a\u306e\u3053, onna-no-ko<\/em>) \u2013 girl (female child)<\/p>

        Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u5973 looks like a person kneeling or a woman with her arms crossed. It\u2019s actually a simplified drawing of a woman. Imagine a woman kneeling in a kimono. That\u2019s literally the shape. So remembering \u5973 as \u201cwoman\u201d is straightforward. For the reading, think of \u304a\u3093\u306a \u2013 maybe \u201cOh, nah, it\u2019s a girl.\u201d It\u2019s a stretch, but the shape itself will remind you it means woman\/female.<\/p>
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      4. \u5b50<\/a> (Child)<\/strong>: Means \u201cchild.\u201d Appears in many words: \u5b50\u4f9b (kodomo, child), \u606f\u5b50 (musuko, son), \u5973\u306e\u5b50 (onnanoko, girl), \u7537\u306e\u5b50 (otokonoko, boy). It\u2019s also used as a suffix in many female given names (e.g., Keiko, Yuko end in \uff5e\u5b50).<\/p>

        On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30b7 (shi<\/em>), \u30b9 (su<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3053 (ko<\/em>)<\/p>

        Example word:<\/strong> \u5b50\u4f9b (\u3053\u3069\u3082, kodomo<\/em>) \u2013 child<\/p>

        Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u5b50 looks like a swaddled baby. The top part is round like a baby\u2019s head, and the bottom part could be the wrapped legs. It\u2019s a pictograph of an infant. An easy association: many children\u2019s names or words end with \uff5e\u5b50 (like -ko for girl names meaning \u201cchild of\u201d). Just think of \u5b50 as a cute little kid bundled up. The reading ko<\/em> is literally the word for \u201cchild\u201d (as in kodomo, where ko<\/em> means child).<\/p>
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      5. \u6bcd<\/a> (Mother)<\/strong>: Means \u201cmother.\u201d You\u2019ll see it in \u6bcd\u89aa (hahaoya, mother), \u304a\u6bcd\u3055\u3093 (okaasan, mom), \u6bcd\u56fd (bokoku, motherland).<\/p>

        On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30dc (bo<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u306f\u306f (haha<\/em>)<\/p>

        Example word:<\/strong> \u304a\u6bcd\u3055\u3093 (\u304a\u304b\u3042\u3055\u3093, ok\u0101san<\/em>) \u2013 mother (honorific, as addressed)<\/p>

        Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u6bcd looks like a person with two breasts (two curved strokes) \u2013 which is an old mnemonic hinting at a mother nursing a child. If that\u2019s too cheeky, imagine it as a mother kneeling with arms open wide for a hug. The shape has a nurturing feel. Remember that when you talk about your own mother, you might say \u6bcd (haha<\/em>) in formal contexts, but when addressing your mom, you say \u304a\u6bcd\u3055\u3093 (okaasan<\/em>). To recall the kanji, think \u201cmy mother is always comforting (with open arms like the kanji \u6bcd).\u201d<\/p>
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      6. \u7236<\/a> (Father)<\/strong>: Means \u201cfather.\u201d Appears in \u7236\u89aa (chichioya, father), \u304a\u7236\u3055\u3093 (ot\u014dsan, dad), \u7236\u5144 (fukei, guardians \u2013 lit. fathers and older brothers).<\/p>

        On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30d5 (fu<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3061\u3061 (chichi<\/em>)<\/p>

        Example word:<\/strong> \u304a\u7236\u3055\u3093 (\u304a\u3068\u3046\u3055\u3093, ot\u014dsan<\/em>) \u2013 father (honorific, as addressed)<\/p>

        Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u7236 looks like a person with two little horns or perhaps two arms raised (the two diagonal strokes at the top). You can imagine a father playfully carrying a child on his shoulders with arms up. Another association: it\u2019s like two “^” shapes on top of a stick figure \u2013 maybe a father\u2019s proud horns or a fancy hat. The important part is to recall it means \u201cdad.\u201d When speaking of your own father to others you use \u7236 (chichi<\/em>), but when calling him or talking about someone\u2019s father, it\u2019s \u304a\u7236\u3055\u3093 (ot\u014dsan<\/em>). Picture \u7236 as a man with arms up saying \u201cI\u2019m Dad!\u201d<\/p>
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      7. \u53cb<\/a> (Friend)<\/strong>: Means \u201cfriend.\u201d Seen in \u53cb\u9054 (tomodachi, friend\/s), \u53cb\u60c5 (y\u016bj\u014d, friendship), \u89aa\u53cb (shiny\u016b, close friend).<\/p>

        On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30e6\u30a6 (y\u016b<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3068\u3082 (tomo<\/em>)<\/p>

        Example word:<\/strong> \u53cb\u9054 (\u3068\u3082\u3060\u3061, tomodachi<\/em>) \u2013 friend(s) (\u9054 is a pluralizing suffix here)<\/em><\/p>

        Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u53cb looks like two hands clasping or two people supporting each other. If you break it down, it has two strokes that could represent two individuals side by side. Think of the saying \u201ca friend in need is a friend indeed\u201d \u2013 two people next to each other. Also tomo<\/em> in Japanese means companion (like \u3068\u3082\u306b, together). So \u53cb, pronounced tomo<\/em>, inherently means friend. Just remember Tom and Jerry \u2013 Tomo sounds like \u201cTom,\u201d and imagine Tom and Jerry as friends (even if they fight!). That might be silly, but whatever helps you recall \u53cb = friend.<\/p>
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      8. \u706b<\/a> (Fire)<\/strong>: Means \u201cfire.\u201d It\u2019s one of the basic elements and also stands for Tuesday when combined with \u66dc (\u706b\u66dc\u65e5). You\u2019ll see it in words like \u706b\u4e8b (kaji, fire incident), \u82b1\u706b (hanabi, fireworks), \u706b\u5c71 (kazan, volcano).<\/p>

        On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30ab (ka<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3072 (hi<\/em>)<\/p>

        Example word:<\/strong> \u706b\u66dc\u65e5 (\u304b\u3088\u3046\u3073, kay\u014dbi<\/em>) \u2013 Tuesday (literally \u201cFire Day\u201d in the Japanese weekly naming)<\/p>

        Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u706b looks like a little flame or campfire with sparks coming off. The vertical stroke is like the main flame and the short strokes are like flickers or sparks. It clearly represents fire. To remember the reading, note that \u706b\u66dc\u65e5 (Tuesday) uses \u30ab (ka). You might know the word \u706b\u5c71 (kazan<\/em>, volcano) \u2013 that\u2019s fire + mountain. Picture the kanji \u706b as a bonfire and you\u2019ll never forget it means fire.<\/p>
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      9. \u6c34<\/a> (Water)<\/strong>: Means \u201cwater.\u201d Also stands for Wednesday (\u6c34\u66dc\u65e5). Appears in words like \u6c34\u9053 (suido, water supply), \u6c34\u6cf3 (suiei, swimming), \u9999\u6c34 (k\u014dsui, perfume \u2013 literally \u201cfragrant water\u201d).<\/p>

        On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30b9\u30a4 (sui<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u307f\u305a (mizu<\/em>)<\/p>

        Example word:<\/strong> \u6c34\u66dc\u65e5 (\u3059\u3044\u3088\u3046\u3073, suiy\u014dbi<\/em>) \u2013 Wednesday (\u201cWater Day\u201d)<\/p>

        Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u6c34 looks like water splashing. The three drops on the left side and the flowing shape on the right give the impression of a stream or fountain. It\u2019s quite pictorial for water. Remember mizu<\/em> means water (like the brand \u201cMizuno\u201d as a mnemonic). You can also think of the chemical symbol H2<\/sub>O \u2013 two hydrogen (\u4e8c) and one oxygen (O). Just kidding \u2013 better to stick with the image of flowing water. For the On\u2019yomi sui<\/em>, think \u201csui-sui\u201d as a sound of swimming through water.<\/p>
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      10. \u6728<\/a> (Tree; Wood)<\/strong>: Means \u201ctree\u201d or \u201cwood.\u201d It represents Thursday (\u6728\u66dc\u65e5) and appears in words like \u6728\u66dc\u65e5, \u6728\u6750 (mokuzai, lumber), \u6728\u9670 (kokage, shade of a tree).<\/p>

        On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30e2\u30af (moku<\/em>), \u30dc\u30af (boku<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u304d (ki<\/em>)<\/p>

        Example word:<\/strong> \u6728\u66dc\u65e5 (\u3082\u304f\u3088\u3046\u3073, mokuy\u014dbi<\/em>) \u2013 Thursday (\u201cWood Day\u201d)<\/p>

        Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u6728 looks exactly like a tree: a vertical line for the trunk, two diagonal lines for branches, and a short line at the bottom for roots. It\u2019s a perfect little tree drawing. So remembering that \u6728 means tree\/wood is easy. To remember the reading ki<\/em>, think of \u201ckey\u201d hanging on a tree (if that helps). Or note words like \u6728\u6751 (Kimura, a common surname meaning \u201cwood village\u201d) use \u6728. The elemental connection: \u6728\u66dc\u65e5 (Thursday) is \u201cwood day\u201d in Japanese.<\/p>
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      11. \u571f<\/a> (Earth; Ground)<\/strong>: Means \u201cearth,\u201d \u201csoil,\u201d or \u201cground.\u201d Represents Saturday (\u571f\u66dc\u65e5) and is found in \u571f\u5730 (tochi, land), \u571f\u8db3 (dosoku, with shoes on, literally \u201cearth on feet\u201d), \u571f\u7523 (miyage as in omiyage, souvenir, originally meaning local product of the land).<\/p>

        On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30c9 (do<\/em>), \u30c8 (to<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3064\u3061 (tsuchi<\/em>)<\/p>

        Example word:<\/strong> \u571f\u66dc\u65e5 (\u3069\u3088\u3046\u3073, doy\u014dbi<\/em>) \u2013 Saturday (\u201cEarth Day\u201d)<\/p>

        Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u571f looks like a sprout coming out of the ground or a mound of dirt. The horizontal line at the bottom represents the ground, and the vertical line with a little cross could be a plant emerging or simply a pile of soil. It\u2019s an earthy shape. Remember \u571f means earth by thinking of planting something in soil. For tsuchi<\/em>, note that tsunami starts with \u201ctsu\u201d (completely unrelated meaning, but if you know the word \u571f\u7802\u5d29\u308c \u2013 dosha kuzure \u2013 landslide, you see soil context). Maybe just memorize that \u571f = ground (imagine touching soil: \u201ctsuchi\u201d sounds like \u201ctouchy,\u201d as in touching dirt).<\/p>
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      12. \u91d1<\/a> (Gold; Money)<\/strong>: Means \u201cgold,\u201d \u201cmetal,\u201d or \u201cmoney.\u201d It\u2019s used for Friday (\u91d1\u66dc\u65e5) and in words like \u304a\u91d1 (okane, money), \u91d1\u8272 (kin\u2019iro, golden color), \u91d1\u5c5e (kinzoku, metal).<\/p>

        On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30ad\u30f3 (kin<\/em>), \u30b3\u30f3 (kon<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u304b\u306d (kane<\/em>)<\/p>

        Example word:<\/strong> \u91d1\u66dc\u65e5 (\u304d\u3093\u3088\u3046\u3073, kin\u2019y\u014dbi<\/em>) \u2013 Friday (\u201cGold Day\u201d)<\/p>

        Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u91d1 is a bit intricate: imagine a structure like a mine entrance or a house with something shining underneath. The top looks like a roof or umbrella, and below it there are crossed lines like shafts of ore and a small treasure. You can picture \u91d1 as a nugget of gold under a roof. To recall that it means money, just remember \u304a\u91d1 (o-kane<\/em>) is the common word for money (which uses this kanji). \u91d1\u66dc\u65e5 being Friday can remind you of \u201cpayday\u201d for some\u2014money day. The On\u2019yomi kin<\/em> is in \u201ckin\u201d like kinship with gold (or think King Midas for gold).<\/p>
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      13. \u672c<\/a> (Book; Origin)<\/strong>: Means \u201cbook\u201d or \u201corigin\/root.\u201d Famously appears in \u65e5\u672c (Nihon, Japan, \u201csun origin\u201d) as the second character, and in \u672c\u5c4b (honya, bookstore), \u672c\u5f53 (hont\u014d, real\/true), \u57fa\u672c (kihon, basic).<\/p>

        On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30db\u30f3 (hon<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3082\u3068 (moto<\/em>)<\/p>

        Example word:<\/strong> \u672c (\u307b\u3093, hon<\/em>) \u2013 book<\/p>

        Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u672c is literally the kanji \u6728 (tree) with an extra little line at the bottom. That extra line indicates the \u201croot\u201d or base of the tree. So \u672c means the root or origin of something. How does that relate to \u201cbook\u201d? One theory is books were seen as the origin of knowledge, or simply that books were made from wood\/paper. In any case, you can remember: a book comes from a tree. The kanji looks like a tree with a line under it (the base) = origin. And since books are kind of the origin of learning, \u672c also came to mean \u201cbook.\u201d Remember that \u65e5\u672c (Japan) literally uses \u65e5 (sun) + \u672c (origin) to mean \u201corigin of the sun.\u201d<\/p>
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      14. \u6c17<\/a> (Spirit; Air; Energy)<\/strong>: A bit abstract, \u6c17 means \u201cspirit,\u201d \u201cenergy,\u201d or \u201cair.\u201d It\u2019s seen in \u6c17\u6301\u3061 (kimochi, feeling), \u5929\u6c17 (tenki, weather), \u5143\u6c17 (genki, healthy\/energetic), \u96fb\u6c17 (denki, electricity, literally \u201celectric spirit\u201d), \u4eba\u6c17 (ninki, popularity, \u201cpeople energy\u201d).<\/p>

        On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30ad (ki<\/em>), \u30b1 (ke<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> (none standalone)<\/em><\/p>

        Example word:<\/strong> \u5143\u6c17 (\u3052\u3093\u304d, genki<\/em>) \u2013 healthy, lively, in good spirits<\/p>

        Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u6c17 is like a pictograph of steam or vapor rising (you can see a little cloud-like shape). In fact, the top part \u6c14 by itself represents vapor or breath. That gives the sense of something invisible like air or spirit. To remember, think of the concept of \u201cki\u201d in martial arts or meditation \u2013 it\u2019s the inner energy or spirit. Japanese phrases like \u5143\u6c17 (genki, literally \u201corigin spirit\u201d) mean healthy or energetic. When someone asks \u201c\u304a\u5143\u6c17\u3067\u3059\u304b\u201d (ogenki desu ka), they mean \u201cAre you well?\u201d So \u6c17 is that vital spirit or energy inside us and around us (air). Just associate \u6c17 with \u201cki\u201d energy.<\/p>
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      15. \u751f<\/a> (Life; To live; Birth)<\/strong>: Has meanings related to life, birth, growth, raw, etc. It\u2019s used in many words: \u751f\u6d3b (seikatsu, life\/livelihood), \u751f\u307e\u308c\u308b (umareru, to be born), \u751f\u304d\u308b (ikiru, to live), \u5b66\u751f (gakusei, student), \u5148\u751f (sensei, teacher, one who lived earlier), \u751f\u9b5a (namazakana, raw fish).<\/p>

        On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30bb\u30a4 (sei<\/em>), \u30b7\u30e7\u30a6 (sh\u014d<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3044\u30fb\u304d\u308b (i(kiru)<\/em> to live), \u3046\u30fb\u307e\u308c\u308b (u(mareru)<\/em> to be born), \u306a\u307e (nama<\/em> raw)<\/p>

        Example word:<\/strong> \u5b66\u751f (\u304c\u304f\u305b\u3044, gakusei<\/em>) \u2013 student (lit. \u201clearning life\u201d)<\/p>

        Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u751f looks like a plant sprouting from the ground with leaves on top. That\u2019s very appropriate, since it represents life or birth. Think of a new plant shooting up \u2013 that\u2019s life beginning. \u751f is in the word \u5148\u751f (sensei<\/em>) which can be broken down as \u5148 (before) + \u751f (born) \u2013 a teacher is \u201cborn before\u201d you in knowledge. It\u2019s also in \u751f\u5f92 (seito<\/em>, pupil) and \u5b66\u751f (student). To remember the shape, picture the kanji as a little sprout (life). And the sound sei<\/em> appears in words related to life\/birth (\u751f\u547d seimei = life, \u751f\u5e74\u6708\u65e5 seinengappi = birthdate). Also, \u751f\u30d3\u30fc\u30eb (namab\u012bru) is \u201cdraft beer\u201d (raw beer) \u2013 cheers to life!<\/p>
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      16. \u9b5a<\/a> (Fish)<\/strong>: Means \u201cfish.\u201d You\u2019ll see it on menus, maybe on supermarket signs (\u9b5a\u58f2\u308a\u5834 \u2013 fish section), and in words like \u91d1\u9b5a (kingyo, goldfish), \u9b5a\u5e02\u5834 (uoichiba or sakana ichiba, fish market).<\/p>

        On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30ae\u30e7 (gyo<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3055\u304b\u306a (sakana<\/em>)<\/p>

        Example word:<\/strong> \u9b5a (\u3055\u304b\u306a, sakana<\/em>) \u2013 fish (the animal, or as food)<\/p>

        Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u9b5a is a pictograph of a fish. If you look closely, it has elements that resemble a fish\u2019s features: the left part looks like a fish head and gills, the right part has a shape like a tail. In fact, the kanji has the \u201cfish\u201d radical (\u9b5a) built-in, since it is the kanji itself. It\u2019s quite recognizable once you know it. To memorize: just remember that the word for fish, sakana<\/em>, is almost always written with this kanji (or sometimes in kana in menus, but often you\u2019ll see the kanji at markets). Picture a fish swimming \u2013 that\u2019s \u9b5a.<\/p>
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      17. \u5929<\/a> (Heaven; Sky)<\/strong>: Means \u201cheaven\u201d or \u201csky.\u201d Common in \u5929\u6c17 (tenki, weather), \u5929\u56fd (tengoku, heaven\/paradise), \u5929\u3077\u3089 (tempura \u2013 fun fact: the \u5929 here originally meant \u201cheaven\u201d as an honorific for the food).<\/p>

        On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30c6\u30f3 (ten<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3042\u307e (ama<\/em>), \u3042\u3081 (ame<\/em> [in compounds, different from \u96e8\u2019s ame])<\/p>

        Example word:<\/strong> \u5929\u6c17 (\u3066\u3093\u304d, tenki<\/em>) \u2013 weather (literally \u201cheaven\u2019s spirit\/air\u201d)<\/p>

        Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u5929 has \u5927 (big) with a line above it. Think of a big person or a big shape under the sky (the top line). It\u2019s like something big reaching up to the heavens. One common explanation: a large person reaching toward heaven. To recall the meaning, remember \u5929\u6c17 (weather) \u2013 that\u2019s literally \u201cheaven\u2019s mood\u201d in a way. Also \u5929\u56fd (tengoku) is heaven (the country of heaven). The kanji is simple and evocative: big + sky = the heavens.<\/p>
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      18. \u7a7a<\/a> (Sky; Empty)<\/strong>: Means \u201csky\u201d or \u201cempty.\u201d Used in words like \u7a7a (sora, sky), \u7a7a\u6c17 (k\u016bki, air), \u7a7a\u3063\u307d (karappo, empty), \u7a7a\u6e2f (k\u016bk\u014d, airport).<\/p>

        On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30af\u30a6 (k\u016b<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u305d\u3089 (sora<\/em>), \u3042\u30fb\u304f\/\u3042\u30fb\u3051\u308b (a(ku)\/a(keru)<\/em> to become empty\/to empty)<\/p>

        Example word:<\/strong> \u7a7a (\u305d\u3089, sora<\/em>) \u2013 the sky<\/p>

        Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u7a7a has \u5b80 (roof) on top and \u5de5 (work) on bottom, plus a small line. One way to see it: imagine a roof with nothing under it \u2013 just emptiness or sky. Or think of peeking through a hole in the roof at the sky. \u7a7a is both \u201csky\u201d and \u201cempty,\u201d as in \u7a7a\u5e2d (k\u016bseki, empty seat) or \u7a7a\u8eca (k\u016bsha, empty taxi \u2013 i.e., available). To remember sora<\/em> means sky, you might recall the name \u201cSora\u201d (often used in anime\/games for a character meaning sky). The kanji\u2019s shape looks a bit like a house with no walls \u2013 just empty space under a roof \u2013 which links to \u201cempty\/sky.\u201d<\/p>
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      19. \u5c71<\/a> (Mountain)<\/strong>: Means \u201cmountain.\u201d Appears in \u5c71 (yama, mountain), \u706b\u5c71 (kazan, volcano, \u201cfire mountain\u201d), \u5bcc\u58eb\u5c71 (Fuji-san, Mt. Fuji), \u767b\u5c71 (tozan, mountain climbing).<\/p>

        On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30b5\u30f3 (san<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3084\u307e (yama<\/em>)<\/p>

        Example word:<\/strong> \u5c71 (\u3084\u307e, yama<\/em>) \u2013 mountain<\/p>

        Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u5c71 looks like a mountain! It has three peaks, like a little sketch of a mountain range (a tall peak in the middle and two smaller peaks on the sides). It\u2019s a very intuitive pictograph. To remember the On\u2019yomi san<\/em>, note that many mountains in Japan are named with \u5c71 but read as \u201c-san\u201d or \u201c-zan\u201d (e.g., \u5bcc\u58eb\u5c71 Fuji-san). And the Kun\u2019yomi yama is literally the word for mountain (yama). So this one\u2019s easy: the shape = mountain, and yama means mountain.<\/p>
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      20. \u96e8<\/a> (Rain)<\/strong>: Means \u201crain.\u201d Used in \u5929\u96e8 (ama, rainfall \u2013 though usually just \u96e8 by itself), \u5927\u96e8 (ooame, heavy rain), \u96e8\u5b63 (uki, rainy season), \u96e8\u5929 (uten, rainy weather).<\/p>

        On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30a6 (u<\/em>) [in compound words]; Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3042\u3081 (ame<\/em>)<\/p>

        Example word:<\/strong> \u96e8 (\u3042\u3081, ame<\/em>) \u2013 rain<\/p>

        Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u96e8 is another clear pictograph: it looks like a cloud with raindrops falling from it. The top line is the sky or cloud, and the four dots underneath are raindrops. It\u2019s perhaps the easiest weather kanji to identify. Just think of an umbrella when you see it. The word ame<\/em> itself means rain (like the song \u201cAme<\/em> ame, fure fure\u201d \u2013 \u201crain, rain, fall, fall\u201d). So remembering \u96e8 = rain = ame is usually no problem, especially if you live in a place where it rains often and you hear \u201c\u3042\u3081\u3060\u2026\u201d (It\u2019s raining) a lot!<\/p>
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      21. \u96fb<\/a> (Electricity)<\/strong>: Means \u201celectric\u201d or \u201celectricity.\u201d You\u2019ll see it in \u96fb\u6c17 (denki, electricity or light), \u96fb\u8eca (densha, electric train), \u96fb\u8a71 (denwa, telephone, literally \u201celectric talk\u201d), \u96fb\u5b50 (denshi, electron or electronic).<\/p>

        On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30c7\u30f3 (den<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> (none common by itself)<\/em><\/p>

        Example word:<\/strong> \u96fb\u8a71 (\u3067\u3093\u308f, denwa<\/em>) \u2013 telephone (lit. \u201celectric talk\u201d)<\/p>

        Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u96fb has the rain radical (\u96e8) on top and underneath is a field-like component. This is because it originally depicted lightning (electricity coming from the sky during rain). Think of thunderclouds raining down lightning bolts onto a rice field. That\u2019s electricity from the heavens. So \u96fb = lightning = electricity. It\u2019s in super common words like \u96fb\u6c17 (lights\/electricity) \u2013 remember when you leave a room you might say \u201c\u96fb\u6c17\u3092\u6d88\u3057\u3066\u201d (denki o keshite \u2013 turn off the light). And \u96fb\u8a71 \u2013 literally \u201celectric speech\u201d \u2013 is a telephone. If you imagine a lightning bolt, you\u2019ll link the shape of \u96fb to electricity.<\/p>
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      22. \u8eca<\/a> (Car; Vehicle)<\/strong>: Means \u201cvehicle\u201d or \u201ccar.\u201d Appears in \u96fb\u8eca (densha, train), \u8eca (kuruma, car), \u81ea\u52d5\u8eca (jid\u014dsha, automobile), \u8eca\u6905\u5b50 (kuruma-isu, wheelchair).<\/p>

        On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30b7\u30e3 (sha<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u304f\u308b\u307e (kuruma<\/em>)<\/p>

        Example word:<\/strong> \u96fb\u8eca (\u3067\u3093\u3057\u3083, densha<\/em>) \u2013 train (lit. \u201celectric vehicle\u201d)<\/p>

        Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u8eca looks a bit like a top-down view of a wagon or car: the middle box could be the body of the vehicle and the four corners like wheels. It\u2019s another pictograph \u2013 an old-style cart with wheels. To recall that it means car\/vehicle, just think of the word \u8eca itself, which is read kuruma<\/em> and means car. Or the brand \u201cAcura\u201d (sounds like kuruma) \u2013 just a thought. Also, picture the kanji as a little cart or chariot. It even kind of resembles a simplified steering wheel or axle. Once you imagine a car in it, you won\u2019t forget \u8eca.<\/p>
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      23. \u8a9e<\/a> (Language; Word)<\/strong>: Means \u201clanguage\u201d or \u201cto talk\/word.\u201d Very common in language names (\uff5e\u8a9e like \u65e5\u672c\u8a9e, Nihongo, Japanese language; \u82f1\u8a9e, Eigo, English). Also in \u5358\u8a9e (tango, word\/vocabulary) and \u8a9e\u308b (kataru, to talk about\/tell a story).<\/p>

        On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30b4 (go<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u304b\u305f\u30fb\u308b (kata(ru)<\/em> to speak, tell)<\/p>

        Example word:<\/strong> \u65e5\u672c\u8a9e (\u306b\u307b\u3093\u3054, Nihon-go<\/em>) \u2013 Japanese language<\/p>

        Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u8a9e has the speech radical \u8a00 on the left, which gives the clue that it\u2019s about words or speaking. On the right side is the component \u543e (ware, meaning \u201cI\u201d archaically, which has the element \u4e94 = five and \u53e3 = mouth). You can think of \u8a9e as \u201cwords from five mouths\u201d or \u201cfive people talking\u201d \u2013 basically, conversation or language. It\u2019s perfect that \u8a9e\u2019s On\u2019yomi is go<\/em>, which literally means \u201clanguage\u201d (e.g., Nihon-go, E-go for English, etc.). So whenever you see a country name + \u8a9e, it means that country\u2019s language. The combination of the speech radical and \u201cfive mouths\u201d can help you picture a bunch of people chattering \u2013 thus, language.<\/p>
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      24. \u624b<\/a> (Hand)<\/strong>: Means \u201chand.\u201d Used in many words: \u624b (te, hand), \u4e0a\u624b (j\u014dzu, skilled, literally \u201cupper hand\u201d), \u4e0b\u624b (heta, unskilled, \u201clower hand\u201d), \u624b\u7d19 (tegami, letter, literally \u201chand paper\u201d), \u6b4c\u624b (kashu, singer, \u201csong hand\u201d).<\/p>

        On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30b7\u30e5 (shu<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3066 (te<\/em>)<\/p>

        Example word:<\/strong> \u624b (\u3066, te<\/em>) \u2013 hand (also used in compound words to mean worker or skill, e.g., \u9078\u624b = athlete)<\/p>

        Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u624b looks like a hand. It has a main stroke and then three shorter strokes on the side, reminiscent of fingers. In fact, it\u2019s often drawn as if showing the palm with three fingers (since in kanji art, three strokes often represent five fingers). If you imagine those three short strokes as the fingers and the longer diagonal as the wrist or thumb, you can see a hand shape. The word \u624b itself is just \u201cte,\u201d which is easy to remember (think of a tennis player\u2019s backhand, maybe? or simply that you use your hand to drink tea \u2013 punny way: \u201ctea\u201d sounds like te<\/em>). In compounds, \u624b can also mean a person skilled at something (like \u9078\u624b \u201cselected hand\u201d = player). But as a standalone, picture your own hand \u2013 that\u2019s \u624b.<\/p>
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      25. \u8db3<\/a> (Foot; Leg; To be sufficient)<\/strong>: Means \u201cfoot\u201d or \u201cleg,\u201d and also \u201cto suffice\u201d (as a verb \u8db3\u308a\u308b, tariru, to be enough). Appears in words like \u8db3 (ashi, foot\/leg), \u6e80\u8db3 (manzoku, satisfaction, \u201cfull sufficiency\u201d), \u8db3\u308a\u306a\u3044 (tarinai, not enough).<\/p>

        On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30bd\u30af (soku<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3042\u3057 (ashi<\/em>), \u305f\u30fb\u308a\u308b (ta(riru)<\/em> to suffice)<\/p>

        Example word:<\/strong> \u8db3 (\u3042\u3057, ashi<\/em>) \u2013 foot; leg<\/p>

        Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u8db3 kind of looks like a leg with a foot. The top part could be a body or knee, and the bottom part extends like a limb with a foot. In fact, the kanji \u8db3 originally had a more foot-like shape. To recall the meaning, just remember the word \u3042\u3057 (ashi) means both foot and leg in Japanese. You might visualize \u8db3 as a person\u2019s leg kicking. Also note, \u8db3\u308a\u308b (tariru) uses this kanji to mean \u201cto be enough\u201d \u2013 maybe from the idea of \u201cfooting\u201d or \u201cto add up.\u201d But stick with the image of a foot \u2013 the kanji\u2019s bottom part looks like toes. If you see a sign like \u201c\u4e8c\u8db3\u201d that literally means \u201ctwo pairs\u201d (of shoes or socks), since \u8db3 also is a counter for footwear (two feet). Just think foot = \u8db3.<\/p>
        <\/li>\n\n\n\n

      26. \u76ee<\/a> (Eye)<\/strong>: Means \u201ceye.\u201d Also used to denote an order (\uff5e\u76ee as a suffix means -th, like 1st, 2nd). Appears in \u76ee (me, eye), \u76ee\u7684 (mokuteki, purpose, \u201ceye-target\u201d), \u76ee\u85ac (megusuri, eye drops), \u79d1\u76ee (kamoku, school subject).<\/p>

        On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30e2\u30af (moku<\/em>), \u30dc\u30af (boku<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3081 (me<\/em>)<\/p>

        Example word:<\/strong> \u76ee (\u3081, me<\/em>) \u2013 eye (also used as \u201citem\u201d or order, e.g., \u4e00\u3064\u76ee = first one)<\/p>

        Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u76ee is a straightforward pictograph of an eye. It\u2019s drawn like a vertical eye shape with a pupil. Imagine a big eyeball \u2013 the horizontal lines are like eyelids and the vertical line in the middle is like the pupil (though \u76ee is usually drawn with four strokes, it ends up looking like a rectangular eye). It\u2019s very easy to recognize. To remember the reading me<\/em>, just remember that \u201cme\u201d (\u76ee) means eye, and you use your eyes to look at me! (Cheesy, but might stick.) Also note, you\u2019ll often see it as a suffix like \uff5e\u76ee (me) to indicate an ordinal: for example, \u4e00\u3064\u76ee (hitotsu-me, \u201cthe first one\u201d), \u4e8c\u4eba\u76ee (futari-me, \u201cthe second person\u201d). It\u2019s like saying \u201cfirst item\u201d or \u201csecond person,\u201d using \u76ee as a counter meaning \u201cin order.\u201d That comes from eye as a point or item on a list.<\/p>
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      27. \u53e3<\/a> (Mouth)<\/strong>: Means \u201cmouth\u201d or \u201copening.\u201d Found in \u53e3 (kuchi, mouth), \u5165\u53e3\/\u51fa\u53e3 (iriguchi\/deguchi, entrance\/exit \u2013 literally \u201center mouth\u201d and \u201cexit mouth\u201d), \u53e3\u8a9e (k\u014dgo, spoken language), \u4eba\u53e3 (jink\u014d, population, \u201cpeople mouth\u201d originally meaning number of people\u2019s mouths to feed).<\/p>

        On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30b3\u30a6 (k\u014d<\/em>), \u30af (ku<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u304f\u3061 (kuchi<\/em>)<\/p>

        Example word:<\/strong> \u51fa\u53e3 (\u3067\u3050\u3061, deguchi<\/em>) \u2013 exit (lit. \u201cexit mouth,\u201d as in an opening for exiting)<\/p>

        Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u53e3 is literally a square shape that represents an open mouth. It\u2019s like a big square \u201cO\u201d for an open mouth or a gate. If you imagine a face, \u53e3 is the mouth. It\u2019s one of the simplest kanji. You will see it on signs: \u5165\u53e3 (entrance) and \u51fa\u53e3 (exit) are very common on buildings and train stations. \u53e3 by itself as \u304f\u3061 means mouth (like \u53e3\u3092\u958b\u3051\u3066 \u2013 open your mouth). It\u2019s impossible to miss: the kanji is shaped like a mouth, and it means mouth or opening. So just picture a mouth whenever you see \u53e3.<\/p>
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      28. \u540d<\/a> (Name)<\/strong>: Means \u201cname\u201d or \u201cfame.\u201d It appears in \u540d\u524d (namae, name), \u6709\u540d (y\u016bmei, famous), \u540d\u523a (meishi, business card), \u540d\u7269 (meibutsu, famous product\/specialty).<\/p>

        On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30e1\u30a4 (mei<\/em>), \u30df\u30e7\u30a6 (my\u014d<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u306a (na<\/em>)<\/p>

        Example word:<\/strong> \u540d\u524d (\u306a\u307e\u3048, namae<\/em>) \u2013 name<\/p>

        Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u540d is composed of \u5915 (evening) on top and \u53e3 (mouth) on bottom. One story is that in old times, people would call names out in the evening (perhaps to call children home or to do roll call). So an \u201cevening mouth\u201d suggests calling out a name. Another way: think of a night party where someone\u2019s name is called out. \u540d means name, and the kun\u2019yomi na<\/em> is exactly the common word for name (\u540d\u524d = name, where \u524d we know is \u201cbefore,\u201d but together namae is just name). You might remember the English word \u201cname\u201d sounds a bit like \u201cna-mei,\u201d which are the two readings of \u540d (na \/ mei). So \u540d = name. If you see a form in Japanese, \u201c\u540d\u524d\u201d labels where you write your name, so that can reinforce it for you.<\/p>
        <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

        Places & Directions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

        These kanji cover common places and directional terms. As a beginner in Japan, reading signs for \u201cstation,\u201d \u201cexit,\u201d or understanding words like \u201coutside\u201d and \u201cschool\u201d is very useful. We include these because they often appear on maps, signboards, or in everyday conversations about locations. Pay attention to kanji like \u4e0a (up) and \u4e0b (down) which are also used in arrows on elevators, or \u53f3 (right) and \u5de6 (left) which you might see on doors or directions. Many of these kanji have multiple readings, but we\u2019ve picked them because of how frequently they are encountered. For example, \u5e97 (shop) might be read as \u307f\u305b (mise) in isolation or \u3066\u3093 (ten) in compounds \u2013 and both are common. Learning each reading in context will help. Here we provide one reading and example for each to illustrate its use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

          \n

        1. \u5e97<\/a> (Shop; Store)<\/strong>: Means \u201cshop\u201d or \u201cstore.\u201d You see this on storefront signs and in words like \u55ab\u8336\u5e97 (kissaten, coffee shop), \u5e97\u54e1 (ten\u2019in, store clerk), \u5e97\u9577 (tench\u014d, store manager).<\/p>

          On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30c6\u30f3 (ten<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u307f\u305b (mise<\/em>)<\/p>

          Example word:<\/strong> \u5e97 (\u307f\u305b, mise<\/em>) \u2013 shop, store (also used as a noun by itself meaning \u201cstore\u201d)<\/p>

          Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u5e97 has \u5e7f (a dotted cliff\/roof radical) on top and \u5360 (to occupy) below. Imagine a shop as a place under a roof where someone occupies space to sell goods. It\u2019s like a little building shape. To remember it, think of mise<\/em> \u2013 if you\u2019ve watched anime or drama, you might have heard \u300c\u3044\u3044\u5e97\u3060\u306d\u300d (ii mise da ne, \u201cIt\u2019s a nice shop\u201d). The On\u2019yomi ten<\/em> is in words like \u5e97\u54e1 (store employee) and is the same as the \u201cten\u201d in coffee shop (\u55ab\u8336\u5e97). Picture a store with a roof and merchandise inside \u2013 that\u2019s \u5e97.<\/p>
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        2. \u99c5<\/a> (Station)<\/strong>: Means \u201cstation\u201d (usually train station). Everywhere you go in Japan, you\u2019ll see ___\u99c5 at train stations (e.g., \u6771\u4eac\u99c5 Tokyo Station). Also in \u99c5\u524d (ekimae, in front of the station), \u99c5\u54e1 (ekiin, station staff).<\/p>

          On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30a8\u30ad (eki<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> (none common)<\/em><\/p>

          Example word:<\/strong> \u99c5 (\u3048\u304d, eki<\/em>) \u2013 station<\/p>

          Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u99c5 has the horse radical \u99ac on the left, because historically a station was where you changed horses. On the right is a shape that might hint at \u201cproper\u201d or \u201cto arrive.\u201d Think of it as: in olden days, a stagecoach station with horses. Now it means train station, but you can still see the horse in it. Luckily, \u99c5 is almost always read as eki<\/em>, which is exactly the word for station. So if you know \u201cShinjuku Eki\u201d means Shinjuku Station, you already know the reading and meaning. Just remember the horse to identify the kanji. When you see a sign with [Kanji]\u99c5, you can read it as \u201c[Kanji] Station.\u201d<\/p>
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        3. \u9053<\/a> (Road; Way)<\/strong>: Means \u201croad,\u201d \u201cstreet,\u201d or \u201cpath,\u201d and by extension \u201cway\u201d or \u201cmethod.\u201d It appears in \u9053 (michi, road), \u9053\u8def (d\u014dro, road), \u6b69\u9053 (hod\u014d, sidewalk), \u66f8\u9053 (shod\u014d, way of writing\/calligraphy), \u5408\u6c17\u9053 (aikid\u014d, martial art \u2013 \u201cway of harmony\u201d).<\/p>

          On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30c9\u30a6 (d\u014d<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u307f\u3061 (michi<\/em>)<\/p>

          Example word:<\/strong> \u9053 (\u307f\u3061, michi<\/em>) \u2013 road, street; path<\/p>

          Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u9053 has the movement\/walk radical (\u8fb6) on the left, which gives the clue of something to do with going or a path. The right part is \u9996 (neck\/head). You can imagine \u201cfollowing your head\u201d down a road, or that the road leads to where heads of people go. But simpler: The left side\u2019s \u2ecc looks like a road or trail. So \u9053 = something to do with roads or ways. In Japanese culture, \u201c\uff5e\u9053\u201d (d\u014d) is often \u201cthe way of\u201d a discipline (\u8336\u9053 sad\u014d, the way of tea; \u5263\u9053 kend\u014d, the way of the sword). But for daily use, just know \u9053 = road. The word \u307f\u3061 is very common (e.g., \u300c\u3053\u306e\u9053\u3092\u307e\u3063\u3059\u3050\u300d \u2013 \u201cstraight down this road\u201d). Picture a road curving off, and remember the kanji with the \u201croad\u201d radical means road.<\/p>
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        4. \u793e<\/a> (Shrine; Company)<\/strong>: Means \u201cshrine\u201d (as in \u795e\u793e, jinja) or \u201ccompany\u201d (as in \u4f1a\u793e, kaisha). It has the sense of a gathering place or society. Common in \u4f1a\u793e (company), \u793e\u4f1a (shakai, society), \u795e\u793e (jinja, shrine).<\/p>

          On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30b7\u30e3 (sha<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3084\u3057\u308d (yashiro<\/em> \u2013 archaic, shrine)<\/p>

          Example word:<\/strong> \u4f1a\u793e (\u304b\u3044\u3057\u3083, kaisha<\/em>) \u2013 company, corporation (lit. \u201cmeeting shrine\/association\u201d)<\/p>

          Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u793e has \u793b (the \u201caltar\u201d or \u201cspirit\u201d radical, related to worship) on the left, and \u571f (earth) on the right. Originally, \u793e referred to a god of the earth or a shrine for the earth deity. You can think of it as a shrine (a spiritual place on the earth). Now, how does that relate to \u201ccompany\u201d? In Japanese, companies are called \u4f1a\u793e, where \u793e carries the meaning of gathering or organization (maybe from the idea of a communal group like a religious community). To remember, think of \u795e\u793e (jinja) which clearly means shrine (with \u795e = god and \u793e = shrine). And then \u4f1a\u793e (meet + shrine) \u2013 people meet together in an organization. The shape with the little \u201c\u30cd\u201d radical and \u571f is unique, so recognize that as the \u201ccompany\/shrine\u201d kanji. It often is read as sha<\/em> in compounds (e.g., \u793e\u9577 shach\u014d, company president) and as ja<\/em> in jinja. But the Kun reading \u3084\u3057\u308d is rarely used except in old names. Focus on seeing \u793e and thinking \u201ccommunity or company.\u201d<\/p>
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        5. \u56fd<\/a> (Country)<\/strong>: Means \u201ccountry\u201d or \u201cnation.\u201d You\u2019ll see it in country names (\u4e2d\u56fd Ch\u016bgoku for China, \u97d3\u56fd Kankoku for Korea, \u82f1\u56fd Eikoku for Britain, etc.), \u5916\u56fd (gaikoku, foreign country), \u56fd\u969b (kokusai, international).<\/p>

          On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30b3\u30af (koku<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u304f\u306b (kuni<\/em>)<\/p>

          Example word:<\/strong> \u4e2d\u56fd (\u3061\u3085\u3046\u3054\u304f, Ch\u016bgoku<\/em>) \u2013 China (lit. \u201cmiddle kingdom\u201d)<\/p>

          Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u56fd is a square enclosing the jewel \u7389 (or \u738b which means king). So think of a country as a territory enclosed by borders, with a treasure or ruler inside. It\u2019s literally like a box (land) containing a king or precious thing \u2013 a \u201ckingdom.\u201d Many country names in kanji end with \u56fd, meaning nation (e.g., \u4e2d\u56fd, \u97d3\u56fd). The Kun\u2019yomi \u304f\u306b is the word for country (as in \u300c\u79c1\u306e\u56fd\u300d \u201cmy country\u201d). To remember the shape, see the big box as the border of a country. The jewel or king inside shows it\u2019s an important land. And since Japan was historically \u300c\u4e2d\u56fd\u300d (\u201cMiddle Kingdom\u201d) before that term moved to China, you know \u56fd = country\/kingdom.<\/p>
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        6. \u5916<\/a> (Outside; Foreign)<\/strong>: Means \u201coutside\u201d or \u201cexternal.\u201d Common in \u5916\u56fd (gaikoku, foreign country), \u5916\u56fd\u4eba (gaikokujin, foreigner), \u5c4b\u5916 (okugai, outdoors), \u5916 (soto, outside), \u5916\u51fa (gaishutsu, going out).<\/p>

          On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30ac\u30a4 (gai<\/em>), \u30b2 (ge<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u305d\u3068 (soto<\/em>), \u306f\u305a\u30fb\u308c\u308b (hazu(reru)<\/em> to come off), \u307b\u304b (hoka<\/em> other)<\/p>

          Example word:<\/strong> \u5916\u56fd (\u304c\u3044\u3053\u304f, gaikoku<\/em>) \u2013 foreign country (\u201coutside country\u201d)<\/p>

          Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u5916 is composed of \u5915 (evening) and \u535c (divination stick). How to make sense of that? One story: in the evening, the magician takes his wand outside. Or, think of stepping outside in the evening to do fortune-telling. But a simpler image: The kanji looks like something sticking out (the \u535c looks like a crack or something protruding from under a cover). \u5916 = outside. To remember, just drill in that soto<\/em> means outside (e.g., \u300c\u5916\u306b\u51fa\u308b\u300d soto ni deru = go outside). And \u5916\u56fd\u4eba (gaikokujin) means foreigner \u2013 literally outside-country person. The concept of \u201coutside\u201d vs \u201cinside\u201d (\u5185) is big in Japanese culture (inside group vs outsiders). So \u5916 is outside. You might also note \u5916\u98df (gaishoku) is eating out. See that pattern \u201cgai-\u201d as \u201coutside.\u201d And physically, imagine opening a door to go \u5916 (outside) at dusk (\u5915).<\/p>
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        7. \u5b66<\/a> (Study; Learn)<\/strong>: Means \u201clearning\u201d or \u201cto study.\u201d It\u2019s seen in \u5b66\u6821 (gakk\u014d, school), \u5b66\u751f (gakusei, student), \u5927\u5b66 (daigaku, university), \u7559\u5b66 (ry\u016bgaku, study abroad).<\/p>

          On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30ac\u30af (gaku<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u307e\u306a\u30fb\u3076 (mana(bu)<\/em>)<\/p>

          Example word:<\/strong> \u5927\u5b66 (\u3060\u3044\u304c\u304f, daigaku<\/em>) \u2013 university (lit. \u201cbig learning\u201d)<\/p>

          Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u5b66 shows a child (\u5b50) under a roof or cover (the top part is like \u201c\u2f0d\u201d). It literally depicts a child in a schoolhouse or under the tutelage of something. Think of it as a kid (\u5b50) learning under a roof \u2013 that\u2019s school or learning. Another view: the top looks like a scholar\u2019s cap or maybe some stylized representation of knowledge pouring in, and the bottom is the child. To recall meaning, remember that in Japanese, \u201cschool\u201d is \u5b66\u6821 (gakk\u014d) and \u201cstudent\u201d is \u5b66\u751f (gakusei). Both start with \u5b66 (learning). The verb \u5b66\u3076 (manabu) means to learn (though \u52c9\u5f37\u3059\u308b is more common for \u201cto study,\u201d \u5b66\u3076 has a broader \u201clearn\u201d nuance). So \u5b66 = to learn. The character\u2019s image should evoke \u201csomeone learning under a roof.\u201d<\/p>
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        8. \u6821<\/a> (School)<\/strong>: Means \u201cschool.\u201d It specifically refers to a school (institution\/building). Always found in compounds, not usually alone. For example \u5b66\u6821 (gakk\u014d, school in general), \u6821\u9577 (k\u014dch\u014d, principal), \u6821\u5ead (k\u014dtei, schoolyard).<\/p>

          On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30b3\u30a6 (k\u014d<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> (none standalone)<\/em><\/p>

          Example word:<\/strong> \u5b66\u6821 (\u304c\u3063\u3053\u3046, gakk\u014d<\/em>) \u2013 school<\/p>

          Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u6821 contains \u6728 (tree) and \u4ea4 (to intersect or mix). One way to think of it: traditionally, children might have studied under a tree or a place where paths cross (like a village school under a big tree). Or think of it as a place where many lives (represented by lines crossing) come together around knowledge (wooden desks?). Honestly, the easiest is to remember that \u5b66\u6821 is spelled with \u5b66 and \u6821 \u2013 two kanji, both pronounced \u201ck\u014d\u201d in that word, making the word for school. We\u2019ve learned \u5b66 is learning, and \u6821 completes \u201cschool.\u201d The kanji \u6821 by itself might remind you of a school building with a tree (\u6728) in the courtyard. Many school grounds in Japan have a big tree. So \u6728 = tree, and you can imagine \u4ea4 as children crossing paths or interacting during recess. That\u2019s a school.<\/p>
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        9. \u4e0a<\/a> (Up; Above)<\/strong>: Means \u201cabove,\u201d \u201cup,\u201d or \u201con top.\u201d You\u2019ll see it as directional indicator (\u2191) or in words like \u4e0a (ue, above), \u4e0a\u624b (j\u014dzu, skilled \u201cupper hand\u201d), \u4e0a\u7740 (uwagi, jacket \u201cupper wear\u201d), \u5c4b\u4e0a (okuj\u014d, rooftop).<\/p>

          On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30b8\u30e7\u30a6 (j\u014d<\/em>, also \u30b7\u30e7\u30a6 sh\u014d<\/em> in some cases); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3046\u3048 (ue<\/em>), \u3046\u308f (uwa<\/em> as prefix), \u3042\u30fb\u3052\u308b (a(geru)<\/em> to raise), \u306e\u307c\u30fb\u308b (nobo(ru)<\/em> to go up)<\/p>

          Example word:<\/strong> \u4e0a (\u3046\u3048, ue<\/em>) \u2013 above, on, up<\/p>

          Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u4e0a is a simple kanji: a little line above a longer line. It literally depicts something above. The small stroke is placed above the main line (ground), indicating \u201cup.\u201d If it were below, it would be \u4e0b. So remember, the one with the extra stroke at the top is \u201cup\/above.\u201d A quick mnemonic: the word \u201cue\u201d sounds like \u201cway up.\u201d So \u4e0a = ue = up. Also, you might recall Mario saying \u201c1-UP\u201d (one extra life), though that\u2019s more English. In any case, \u4e0a in diagrams or elevator buttons (\u300c\u4e0a\u2191\u300d) means up. It\u2019s intuitive once you see the shape.<\/p>
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        10. \u4e0b<\/a> (Down; Below)<\/strong>: Means \u201cbelow,\u201d \u201cdown,\u201d or \u201cunder.\u201d It\u2019s in words like \u4e0b (shita, below), \u5730\u4e0b (chika, underground), \u4e0b\u624b (heta, unskilled \u201clower hand\u201d), \u304f\u3060\u3055\u3044 (kudasai uses the kanji \u4e0b as part of \u4e0b\u3055\u3044 \u2013 meaning \u201cplease give [me]\u201d).<\/p>

          On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30ab (ka<\/em>), \u30b2 (ge<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3057\u305f (shita<\/em>), \u3055\u30fb\u3052\u308b (sa(geru)<\/em> to lower), \u304a\u30fb\u308a\u308b (o(riru)<\/em> to descend)<\/p>

          Example word:<\/strong> \u4e0b (\u3057\u305f, shita<\/em>) \u2013 under, below, beneath<\/p>

          Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u4e0b is the opposite of \u4e0a. It has a short line below the longer line. Think of it as a mark below the ground line, indicating \u201cdown.\u201d The shape literally screams \u201cthis part is under.\u201d To recall the reading, \u3057\u305f (shita) means below. Perhaps think \u201csheet ah, dropped down\u201d \u2013 or simpler, just memorize that SHITA means under (kids often learn \u201cue = up, shita = down\u201d as a pair). The kanji on signs for basement or underground will often be \u5730\u4e0b (\u5730\u4e0b\uff11\u968e = basement level 1, etc.). \u4e0b on an arrow or elevator = go down. Just remember: the extra stroke on the bottom = lower, under.<\/p>
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        11. \u4e2d<\/a> (Middle; Inside)<\/strong>: Means \u201cmiddle,\u201d \u201ccenter,\u201d or \u201cinside.\u201d Found in \u4e2d\u56fd (Ch\u016bgoku, China, \u201cmiddle kingdom\u201d), \u4e2d\u5fc3 (ch\u016bshin, center), \u4e2d (naka, inside\/middle), \u4e00\u65e5\u4e2d (ichinichij\u016b, all day long, \u201cthroughout the day\u201d).<\/p>

          On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30c1\u30e5\u30a6 (ch\u016b<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u306a\u304b (naka<\/em>)<\/p>

          Example word:<\/strong> \u4e2d (\u306a\u304b, naka<\/em>) \u2013 inside, middle<\/p>

          Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u4e2d is a box with a vertical line through the middle. It literally looks like something going through the center of a box or target. So it clearly signifies \u201cmiddle\u201d or \u201ccenter.\u201d Think of a bullseye with an arrow hitting the middle \u2013 that arrow is the vertical line in \u4e2d. To remember the reading, note that \u4e2d\u56fd (China) uses \u30c1\u30e5\u30a6 for \u4e2d. Also, \u4e2d\u5b66\u6821 (ch\u016bgakk\u014d) is middle school. The kun\u2019yomi \u306a\u304b is a super common word for \u201cinside\u201d or \u201cin the middle of.\u201d For example, \u300c\u7bb1\u306e\u4e2d\u300d (hako no naka) = inside the box. The kanji\u2019s form, with the line centered, will remind you it means center.<\/p>
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        12. \u5317<\/a> (North)<\/strong>: Means \u201cnorth.\u201d Used in \u5317 (kita, north), \u5317\u6d77\u9053 (Hokkaid\u014d, northern sea circuit \u2013 Hokkaido prefecture), \u6771\u5317 (T\u014dhoku, region in north-east Japan), \u5317\u6975 (hokkyoku, North Pole).<\/p>

          On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30db\u30af (hoku<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u304d\u305f (kita<\/em>)<\/p>

          Example word:<\/strong> \u5317 (\u304d\u305f, kita<\/em>) \u2013 north (also as a direction: \u5317\u3078\u884c\u304f \u2013 go north)<\/p>

          Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u5317 looks like two people sitting back to back. In ancient mnemonic tradition, two people back to back were said to be feeling cold (like in the north\u2019s cold climate). You can imagine huddling back to back in the cold north wind. Another way: the character kind of has two shapes like bent figures. Just remember the story: \u201cNorth is cold, so two people turn their backs to shield from the wind.\u201d The reading \u304d\u305f (kita) is just the word for north. If you know the phrase \u5317\u6d77\u9053 (Hokkaid\u014d, the northernmost island), that has \u5317. Or \u5317\u98a8 (kitakaze, north wind). Connect \u201ckita\u201d with the idea of the North star or Santa (who lives in the north). That should fix it in memory.<\/p>
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        13. \u897f<\/a> (West)<\/strong>: Means \u201cwest.\u201d Found in \u897f (nishi, west), \u95a2\u897f (Kansai, Kansai region of Japan, \u201cwest of the barrier\u201d), \u897f\u6d0b (seiy\u014d, the West\/Occident), \u897f\u65e5 (nishi-bi, westering sun which means afternoon sun).<\/p>

          On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30bb\u30a4 (sei<\/em>), \u30b5\u30a4 (sai<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u306b\u3057 (nishi<\/em>)<\/p>

          Example word:<\/strong> \u897f (\u306b\u3057, nishi<\/em>) \u2013 west<\/p>

          Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u897f looks a bit like a stylized container or a setting sun descending to the west. Some see it as a pictograph of a bird perched at dusk or an enclosure with one side open (the west). Honestly, it might not resemble anything obvious at first glance. You could remember it by elimination: we know north (\u5317) has people back-to-back, south (\u5357) has more parts, east (\u6771) is sun + tree. \u897f is the one that remains for west. Or use this story: the west is where the sun sets; imagine the horizontal lines as the horizon, and the little shapes inside as the sun getting low in the sky. The reading \u306b\u3057 (nishi) is just the word for west (e.g., \u897f\u53e3 nishi-guchi = west exit). And \u897f\u6d0b (Seiy\u014d) means Western world \u2013 with \u897f read as \u201csei.\u201d Kansai (\u95a2\u897f) has \u897f as \u201csai.\u201d If you think of \u201cthe Wild West,\u201d maybe think \u201cSAIgon is in the west relative to something\u201d \u2013 hmm. Let\u2019s stick with the sun setting: a golden west with a square shape like a setting sun.<\/p>
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        14. \u6771<\/a> (East)<\/strong>: Means \u201ceast.\u201d Seen in \u6771 (higashi or azuma, east), \u6771\u4eac (T\u014dky\u014d, \u201cEastern capital\u201d), \u6771\u6d77 (T\u014dkai, eastern sea region), \u4e2d\u6771 (Ch\u016bt\u014d, Middle East).<\/p>

          On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30c8\u30a6 (t\u014d<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3072\u304c\u3057 (higashi<\/em>)<\/p>

          Example word:<\/strong> \u6771\u4eac (\u3068\u3046\u304d\u3087\u3046, T\u014dky\u014d<\/em>) \u2013 Tokyo (lit. \u201cEastern capital\u201d)<\/p>

          Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u6771 is made of \u6728 (tree) and \u65e5 (sun) embedded in it. You can interpret it as \u201cthe sun rising behind a tree.\u201d The sun rises in the east, so pictographically, sun + tree = east (sun coming up through trees). This is a classic mnemonic for \u6771. It\u2019s very effective: see the sun (the middle part) stuck in a tree (the outer frame) \u2013 that\u2019s sunrise in the east. Tokyo\u2019s kanji \u6771\u4eac uses \u6771 for \u201ceast\u201d and \u4eac for \u201ccapital,\u201d since Tokyo is the eastern capital (as opposed to Kyoto in the west historically). The reading \u3072\u304c\u3057 (higashi) might be remembered by \u201che gash-ed eastward\u201d (silly), or note that some names like Higashiyama (\u6771\u5c71, Eastern Mountain) use it. But the On\u2019yomi \u30c8\u30a6 appears in Tokyo (\u3068\u3046\u304d\u3087\u3046). So just think Tokyo = Eastern Capital, that\u2019s East = \u6771.<\/p>
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        15. \u5357<\/a> (South)<\/strong>: Means \u201csouth.\u201d Appears in \u5357 (minami, south), \u5357\u6975 (nankyoku, South Pole), \u6771\u5357 (t\u014dnan, southeast), \u5357\u7c73 (Nanbei, South America).<\/p>

          On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30ca\u30f3 (nan<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u307f\u306a\u307f (minami<\/em>)<\/p>

          Example word:<\/strong> \u5357 (\u307f\u306a\u307f, minami<\/em>) \u2013 south<\/p>

          Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u5357 looks a bit complex. One way to break it down: the top part looks like the kanji for ten (\u5341) and an extra stroke, and the bottom part is similar to the katakana \u30e1 or a cross shape. There\u2019s an old mnemonic: imagine an ornate signpost pointing the way to the sunny south, or think of it as an umbrella (the top) under which two people are sunbathing (just a wild image). Alternatively, you could remember it by elimination: you\u2019ve learned east, west, north; the one with a more complex shape is south. Another association: the word \u307f\u306a\u307f (minami) sounds like \u201cMiami,\u201d which is in the south (Florida). Not historically relevant, but it might stick: Miami is warm and to the south \u2013 \u307f\u306a\u307f means south. Also, \u5357 is in the name \u201cMinami\u201d often (e.g., Minami Ward in cities). If you can recall at least that minami = south, you\u2019ll be set, and reading \u5357 on a compass or map will be easier. The kanji shape might come with more familiarity; for now, pair it with something like \u201cthe south (\u5357) is where it\u2019s warm and everyone says \u2018mi-na-mi!\u2019 in excitement.\u201d<\/p>
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        16. \u53f3<\/a> (Right (side))<\/strong>: Means \u201cright\u201d (direction). You find it in \u53f3 (migi, right), \u53f3\u624b (migite, right hand), \u53f3\u6298 (usetsu, right turn), \u53f3\u7ffc (uyoku, right wing).<\/p>

          On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30a6 (u<\/em>), \u30e6\u30a6 (y\u016b<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u307f\u304e (migi<\/em>)<\/p>

          Example word:<\/strong> \u53f3 (\u307f\u304e, migi<\/em>) \u2013 right (side\/direction)<\/p>

          Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u53f3 contains \u53e3 (mouth) on the left side of the character and a small radical on the top right (essentially \u201c\u30ca\u201d or a shortened version of the hand radical \u5bf8). A common mnemonic: \u201cThe mouth (\u53e3) is to the right of the hand (in the kanji).\u201d Think of someone facing you \u2013 their right hand is on your left side visually, but imagine on your own body: your right hand is typically your dominant hand that feeds your mouth. The ancient origin of \u53f3 was a hand holding something, but a simpler trick: write \u5de6 (left) and \u53f3 (right) next to each other. \u53f3 has the \u201c\u53e3\u201d (which looks like a mouth) \u2013 recall that the phrase \u201cdrink with your right hand\u201d or \u201cyour right hand brings food to your mouth.\u201d So \u53f3 is the right side. The reading \u307f\u304e should be straightforward \u2013 that\u2019s the word for right. You might know \u201c\u53f3\u306b\u66f2\u304c\u308b\u201d (migi ni magaru) from driving directions meaning \u201cturn right.\u201d Or a more visual: \u53f3 looks kind of like a person bowing to the right with their mouth open? If you squint… but stick with the mouth-hand idea.<\/p>
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        17. \u5de6<\/a> (Left (side))<\/strong>: Means \u201cleft\u201d (direction). Found in \u5de6 (hidari, left), \u5de6\u624b (hidarite, left hand), \u5de6\u6298 (sasetsu, left turn), \u5de6\u7ffc (sayoku, left wing).<\/p>

          On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30b5 (sa<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3072\u3060\u308a (hidari<\/em>)<\/p>

          Example word:<\/strong> \u5de6 (\u3072\u3060\u308a, hidari<\/em>) \u2013 left (side\/direction)<\/p>

          Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u5de6 contains \u5de5 (craft\/skill radical) on the left, and a short stroke on top right. One story: In ancient times, the left hand was considered \u201cunclean\u201d or used for less sacred tasks, like manual labor (\u5de5). Meanwhile, the right hand was used for eating and rituals (hence \u53f3 has a mouth). So \u5de6 has the work\/tool radical, implying the left hand is the one that does work (tools). If that doesn\u2019t stick, just memorize \u3072\u3060\u308a = left. Perhaps think \u201cHIDARI -> HIDe your RIng on your left hand\u201d (if someone hides a ring on their left hand? Hmm). Another easy trick: The kanji \u5de6 and \u53f3 \u2013 one of them has \u53e3 (mouth). Which side of your body is the mouth on? Neither, it\u2019s center. But think: \u53f3 uses mouth to remind you of feeding, so that was right. \u5de6 doesn\u2019t have mouth; instead it has a work tool. So left is the one with \u5de5. Also, the word \u5de6\u5229\u304d (hidarikiki) means left-handed \u2013 maybe you know someone who is left-handed. All in all, \u3072\u3060\u308a = left, and the kanji without the \u201cmouth\u201d is left.<\/p>
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          Basic Verbs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

          Here we have some of the most common action kanji \u2013 verbs you\u2019ll use or see often. Even though the verb \u201cto do\u201d (\u3059\u308b) has no kanji and \u201cto be\u201d (\u3044\u308b\/\u3042\u308b) are usually kana, these covered here include actions like see, go, eat, drink, etc. For a beginner, recognizing these kanji in texts means you can pick up the gist of sentences. In conjugated forms, the kanji part stays the same and the ending changes in kana. For example, \u898b\u308b (miru, to see) might appear as \u898b\u307e\u3057\u305f (mimashita, saw) \u2013 still the kanji \u898b indicates \u201csee.\u201d We list the dictionary form (plain present tense) of each verb as the example. Generally, the Kun\u2019yomi (Japanese reading) is used when these verbs stand alone (e.g., \u898b\u308b = miru), whereas the On\u2019yomi appears in compound words (like \u898b\u5b66 ken-gaku, study visit). Focus on connecting the kanji to the idea of the action.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

            \n

          1. \u898b<\/a> (To see; To be visible; To show)<\/strong>: This kanji relates to vision. As a verb \u898b\u308b (miru) means \u201cto see\u201d or \u201cto watch.\u201d It also appears in \u898b\u3048\u308b (mieru, to be visible) and \u898b\u305b\u308b (miseru, to show). It\u2019s extremely common.<\/p>

            On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30b1\u30f3 (ken<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u307f\u30fb\u308b (mi(ru)<\/em>), \u307f\u30fb\u3048\u308b (mi(eru)<\/em>), \u307f\u30fb\u305b\u308b (mi(seru)<\/em>)<\/p>

            Example word:<\/strong> \u898b\u308b (\u307f\u308b, miru<\/em>) \u2013 to see, to watch<\/p>

            Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u898b looks like an eye (\u76ee) with legs. Imagine an eye on legs going around to see things. It\u2019s actually literally that: \u76ee (eye) plus \u513f (legs) at the bottom. So think of \u201cseeing\u201d as your eyes walking around. That perfectly captures the meaning. For reading, you probably already know the verb \u307f\u308b (miru) \u2013 \u201cto see\/watch.\u201d Words like \u898b\u7269 (kenbutsu, sightseeing) use the On\u2019yomi ken<\/em>, but focus on the basic: \u898b\u308b, \u898b\u3048\u308b (something \u201ccan be seen\u201d), \u898b\u305b\u308b (\u201cto show\u201d \u2013 cause someone to see something). If you can link the little leggy eye pictogram to \u201csee,\u201d you\u2019re set.<\/p>
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          2. \u805e<\/a> (To hear; To listen; To ask)<\/strong>: Relates to hearing (and sometimes asking, since \u201cto ask\u201d in Japanese can use the verb \u805e\u304f). \u898b\u308b was for eyes, \u805e\u304f (kiku) is for ears. You\u2019ll see it in \u805e\u3053\u3048\u308b (kikoeru, be audible) and \u65b0\u805e (shinbun, newspaper, \u201cnew hearing\u201d literally).<\/p>

            On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30d6\u30f3 (bun<\/em>), \u30e2\u30f3 (mon<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u304d\u30fb\u304f (ki(ku)<\/em> to hear\/ask), \u304d\u30fb\u3053\u3048\u308b (ki(koeru)<\/em> to be heard)<\/p>

            Example word:<\/strong> \u805e\u304f (\u304d\u304f, kiku<\/em>) \u2013 to listen; to hear; to ask<\/p>

            Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u805e has the \u201cear\u201d \u8033 inside a \u201cgate\u201d \u9580. So it\u2019s literally an ear at the door or ear at the gate \u2013 as if you\u2019re pressing your ear to a door to hear what\u2019s going on inside. This nicely encapsulates \u201cto listen\/hear.\u201d So just remember ear (\u8033) + gate (\u9580) = listen (\u805e). The verb \u805e\u304f (kiku) means both \u201cto hear\/listen\u201d and \u201cto ask\u201d \u2013 context tells which (like \u97f3\u697d\u3092\u805e\u304f = listen to music, \u5148\u751f\u306b\u805e\u304f = ask the teacher). The kanji doesn\u2019t change for those meanings. To recall that, think that to \u201cask\u201d is to \u201clisten\u201d for an answer. Also, \u65b0\u805e (new + hear) is newspaper, which you \u201chear\u201d the news from (old naming convention). The shape of \u805e should remind you strongly of an ear at a door \u2013 so that\u2019s hearing or eavesdropping!<\/p>
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          3. \u66f8<\/a> (To write; Writing)<\/strong>: Means \u201cto write,\u201d and also refers to writings (as in \u56f3\u66f8\u9928, toshokan, library). The verb is \u66f8\u304f (kaku, to write). Also in \u66f8\u9053 (shod\u014d, calligraphy), \u6559\u79d1\u66f8 (ky\u014dkasho, textbook).<\/p>

            On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30b7\u30e7 (sho<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u304b\u30fb\u304f (ka(ku)<\/em>)<\/p>

            Example word:<\/strong> \u66f8\u304f (\u304b\u304f, kaku<\/em>) \u2013 to write<\/p>

            Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u66f8 has \u65e5 (sun\/day) and a radical that looks like \u807f (a brush or writing pen) at the bottom. In fact, the bottom part is the classical \u201cbrush\u201d component. So imagine someone holding a brush beneath the sun (maybe writing under daylight). It kind of looks like someone writing on a notebook. To remember it means \u201cwrite,\u201d focus on that brush-like shape. You might even see it as a hand holding a brush with ink. The reading \u304b\u304f (kaku) is a basic verb. If you know \u66f8\u9053 (shod\u014d \u2013 the art of calligraphy), that has \u66f8 = writing. Also \u56f3\u66f8 (tosho) means books (\u56f3\u66f8\u9928 library). So \u66f8 = writing\/documents. Just picture a pen or brush \u2013 that\u2019s \u66f8 every time.<\/p>
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          4. \u8aad<\/a> (To read)<\/strong>: Means \u201cto read.\u201d The verb is \u8aad\u3080 (yomu, to read). Seen in \u8aad\u66f8 (dokusho, reading as a hobby), \u8aad\u307f\u7269 (yomimono, reading material).<\/p>

            On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30c9\u30af (doku<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3088\u30fb\u3080 (yo(mu)<\/em>)<\/p>

            Example word:<\/strong> \u8aad\u3080 (\u3088\u3080, yomu<\/em>) \u2013 to read<\/p>

            Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u8aad has the speech\/word radical \u8a00 on the left (since reading involves words), and the right side is \u58f2 (to sell) without the final stroke at bottom. A story: \u201cselling words\u201d is basically what writers do, and we read them. But a simpler approach: notice that both \u8aad\u3080 (yomu, to read) and \u8aad\u66f8 (dokusho, reading books) use this kanji. The presence of \u8a00 (words) hints it\u2019s language-related. The On\u2019yomi, as in \u8aad\u66f8 (\u3069\u304f\u3057\u3087, dokusho), sounds like \u201cdoku,\u201d which might help you link to \u201cbook\u201d (no pun intended). To recall the shape, you could think of a merchant (\u58f2) calling out words to sell books. But perhaps just flashcard it: \u8aad = read (with speech radical). And remember \u201cyomu\u201d \u2013 you likely have encountered that if you studied basic verbs.<\/p>
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          5. \u8a71<\/a> (To talk; Conversation)<\/strong>: Means \u201cto speak\u201d or \u201cto talk,\u201d and also \u201ca story\u201d or \u201cconversation.\u201d As a verb, \u8a71\u3059 (hanasu, to speak). Also seen in \u4f1a\u8a71 (kaiwa, conversation), \u96fb\u8a71 (denwa, telephone, \u201celectric talk\u201d), \u8a71 (hanashi, a story\/tale).<\/p>

            On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30ef (wa<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u306f\u306a\u30fb\u3059 (hana(su)<\/em>), \u306f\u306a\u3057 (hanashi<\/em> \u2013 talk, tale)<\/p>

            Example word:<\/strong> \u8a71\u3059 (\u306f\u306a\u3059, hanasu<\/em>) \u2013 to speak, to talk<\/p>

            Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u8a71 has the speech radical \u8a00 on the left (again, something to do with words) and \u820c (tongue) on the right. Indeed, the right component is literally \u201ctongue.\u201d So words + tongue = to speak. Perfect! It\u2019s hard to forget that visual: imagine a tongue wagging words. The kanji thereby means to talk or a talk. For readings: \u306f\u306a\u3059 (hanasu) is the verb, and \u8a71 by itself as a noun is usually \u306f\u306a\u3057 (hanashi), meaning a tale or what someone said. The On\u2019yomi \u30ef appears in \u96fb\u8a71 (denwa, telephone) and \u4f1a\u8a71 (kaiwa, conversation). But since talking is such a fundamental action, just remember the friendly phrase: \u300c\u65e5\u672c\u8a9e\u3067\u8a71\u3057\u3066\u304f\u3060\u3055\u3044\u3002\u300d (Nihongo de hanashite kudasai \u2013 Please speak in Japanese.) \u8a71\u3059 = to speak, with a tongue radical to remind you.<\/p>
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          6. \u8cb7<\/a> (To buy)<\/strong>: Means \u201cto buy\u201d or \u201cto purchase.\u201d The verb is \u8cb7\u3046 (kau, to buy). You also see it in \u8cb7\u3044\u7269 (kaimono, shopping or items bought) and \u58f2\u8cb7 (baibai, buying and selling).<\/p>

            On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30d0\u30a4 (bai<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u304b\u30fb\u3046 (ka(u)<\/em>)<\/p>

            Example word:<\/strong> \u8cb7\u3046 (\u304b\u3046, kau<\/em>) \u2013 to buy<\/p>

            Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u8cb7 has the element \u8c9d (shell\/money) at the bottom and a net-like thing \u7f52 on top. In ancient times, shells were used as currency in some cultures, and net implies catching. So think of \u201ccatching shells\u201d to trade \u2013 basically obtaining goods. Or an easier one: imagine a shopping bag (the top part could look like a bag or eye looking for goods) and the shell at bottom as money. \u8cb7 = buy. It\u2019s also just \u58f2 (sell, which we\u2019ll encounter soon) with a net added, interestingly. The reading is straightforward: \u304b\u3046 (kau) is the verb \u201cto buy.\u201d If you know the phrase \u8cb7\u3044\u7269 (kaimono) meaning shopping (literally \u201cbuy things\u201d), that\u2019s this kanji. You might link bai<\/em> in \u8cb7 to \u201cbuy\u201d as an English pun (sounds like \u201cbuy\u201d). In fact, \u58f2\u8cb7 (baibai) literally means buying and selling, and it\u2019s funny because it\u2019s basically \u201cbuy-buy\u201d in pronunciation. So remember the shell \u2013 money \u2013 at the bottom and you\u2019ll recall this has to do with purchase.<\/p>
            <\/li>\n\n\n\n

          7. \u884c<\/a> (To go; To carry out)<\/strong>: Means \u201cto go\u201d or \u201cto carry out\/do.\u201d As a verb \u884c\u304f (iku, to go). Also seen in \u884c\u3046 (okonau, to carry out\/perform), \u9280\u884c (gink\u014d, bank, \u201csilver going\u201d sort of meaning), \u65c5\u884c (ryok\u014d, travel).<\/p>

            On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30b3\u30a6 (k\u014d<\/em>), \u30ae\u30e7\u30a6 (gy\u014d<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3044\u30fb\u304f (i(ku)<\/em>), \u3086\u30fb\u304f (yu(ku)<\/em>), \u304a\u3053\u306a\u30fb\u3046 (okonau<\/em>)<\/p>

            Example word:<\/strong> \u884c\u304f (\u3044\u304f, iku<\/em>) \u2013 to go<\/p>

            Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u884c looks like a crossroad or a set of parallel paths. It has a somewhat symmetrical pattern that gives the sense of lines or rows (in fact, in Japanese prints, column text is called \u884c). The idea is movement or going. One way: see it as two parallel lines (like road lanes) connected by two strokes \u2013 like the markings of a crosswalk. That might be a stretch, but it does look like a road or street in a city plan. For meaning, just remember \u884c\u304f (iku) \u2013 one of the first verbs you learn, meaning \u201cto go.\u201d The kanji appears in common phrases like \u884c\u3063\u3066\u304d\u307e\u3059 (\u201cI\u2019m off [to go somewhere]\u201d). Also in the word \u9280\u884c (bank) because originally a bank is a \u201cmoney go-between\u201d or something. If you imagine the kanji as a street intersection, it\u2019ll stick as \u201cgo.\u201d<\/p>
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          8. \u51fa<\/a> (To go out; To leave; To put out)<\/strong>: Means \u201cto exit, to go out\u201d (and also \u201cto put out something\u201d). The verb \u51fa\u308b (deru, to exit\/go out) and \u51fa\u3059 (dasu, to take out\/put out) use it. Found in \u51fa\u53e3 (deguchi, exit), \u51fa\u304b\u3051\u308b (dekakeru, to go out [for an outing]), \u601d\u3044\u51fa (omoide, a memory, lit. \u201ca thing that comes out of thought\u201d).<\/p>

            On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30b7\u30e5\u30c4 (shutsu<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3067\u30fb\u308b (de(ru)<\/em>), \u3060\u30fb\u3059 (da(su)<\/em>)<\/p>

            Example word:<\/strong> \u51fa\u308b (\u3067\u308b, deru<\/em>) \u2013 to exit, to come out<\/p>

            Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u51fa looks like two mountain shapes stacked, one pushing out of the other. In fact, it\u2019s often described as \u201cmountain emerging.\u201d The bottom \u5c71 could be ground level, and the top \u5c71 is coming out of it. That gives the sense of something coming out or leaving. Another way: picture two doors being slightly opened (though it\u2019s not literally drawn like that). The shape is unique: basically \u5c71 with an extra one. So it\u2019s like something is being pulled out. \u51fa\u53e3 (exit) uses \u51fa and \u53e3 (mouth\/opening) \u2013 literally \u201cexit mouth.\u201d You\u2019ll see \u51fa on exit signs combined with \u53e3. For readings, \u51fa\u308b (deru) is to go out, \u51fa\u3059 (dasu) is to take something out (or to turn in, as in \u201chand in homework\u201d). Both share the root \u201cde\/da.\u201d Think \u201cde- part\u201d as in depart (to leave) \u2013 \u51fa = de. The shape of \u51fa should evoke exiting a cave or a mountain emerging from the ground = something coming out.<\/p>
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          9. \u5165<\/a> (To enter; To insert)<\/strong>: Means \u201cto enter\u201d or \u201cto put in.\u201d It\u2019s basically the opposite of \u51fa. The verb is \u5165\u308b (hairu, to enter) and \u5165\u308c\u308b (ireru, to put in). Also seen in \u5165\u53e3 (iriguchi, entrance), \u5165\u5b66 (ny\u016bgaku, entering school), \u8f38\u5165 (yuny\u016b, import).<\/p>

            On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30cb\u30e5\u30a6 (ny\u016b<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u306f\u3044\u30fb\u308b (hai(ru)<\/em>), \u3044\u30fb\u308c\u308b (i(reru)<\/em>)<\/p>

            Example word:<\/strong> \u5165\u308a\u53e3 (\u3044\u308a\u3050\u3061, iriguchi<\/em>) \u2013 entrance (\u5165\u53e3 is often written without the okurigana)<\/p>

            Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u5165 looks like a person entering through a door or a funnel shape. It\u2019s like an upside-down V, or imagine an arrow pointing inward. A common mnemonic: it resembles someone walking into a room (from left to right). It\u2019s a very simple kanji. Be careful not to confuse it with \u4eba (person) \u2013 \u5165 is a bit more angled and open at top. Think of \u5165 as an open gate. And indeed \u5165\u53e3 is entrance (with \u53e3 opening). For reading: \u5165\u308b can be \u306f\u3044\u308b (hairu, to enter) or \u3044\u308b (iru, an older form especially in compound like \u62bc\u3057\u5165\u308c oshi-ire, closet). \u5165\u308c\u308b (ireru) is to put in. The On\u2019yomi ny\u016b is seen in \u5165\u5b66 (entry to school) or \u5165\u9662 (ny\u016bin, hospital admission). You might remember \u201c\u30cb\u30e5\u30fc\u30e8\u30fc\u30af (Ny\u016by\u014dku)\u201d which ironically starts with ny\u016b, but that\u2019s just \u201cNew York\u201d in katakana \u2013 unrelated, but a funny coincidence to spark memory: New York, new, ny\u016b \u2013 entering something new. Probably stick with visual: the kanji looks like an entering action.<\/p>
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          10. \u4f11<\/a> (To rest; Holiday)<\/strong>: Means \u201cto rest\u201d or \u201cbreak\/holiday.\u201d The verb is \u4f11\u3080 (yasumu, to rest or take a day off). As a noun, \u4f11\u307f (yasumi) means holiday or break. Seen in \u4f11\u65e5 (ky\u016bjitsu, holiday), \u4f11\u61a9 (ky\u016bkei, break), \u4f11\u6821 (ky\u016bk\u014d, school closure day).<\/p>

            On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30ad\u30e5\u30a6 (ky\u016b<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3084\u3059\u30fb\u3080 (yasu(mu)<\/em>), \u3084\u3059\u30fb\u307f (yasu(mi)<\/em>)<\/p>

            Example word:<\/strong> \u4f11\u3080 (\u3084\u3059\u3080, yasumu<\/em>) \u2013 to rest, to take a break; to take time off<\/p>

            Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u4f11 is made of \u4eba (person) next to \u6728 (tree). It literally looks like a person leaning against a tree, which is a perfect image of \u201crest.\u201d Imagine someone resting under a tree\u2019s shade. That\u2019s exactly what \u4f11 conveys. Because of that pictograph, this kanji is very easy to recall: person + tree = take a rest (like on a hike, you stop and lean on a tree). The word \u4f11\u307f (yasumi) you likely know as \u201choliday\/break.\u201d And \u4f11\u3080 (yasumu) as \u201cto rest\u201d or \u201cskip work\/school.\u201d The On\u2019yomi ky\u016b shows up in words like \u4f11\u6687 (ky\u016bka, vacation) and \u9023\u4f11 (renky\u016b, consecutive holidays). But the mnemonic power is in the shape: you see that person by a tree \u2013 think \u201ctaking a break.\u201d<\/p>
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          11. \u98df<\/a> (To eat; Food)<\/strong>: Means \u201cto eat\u201d and also \u201cfood.\u201d The verb is \u98df\u3079\u308b (taberu, to eat). In compounds, it can carry the meaning of \u201cfood\u201d or \u201cmeal\u201d (e.g., \u98df\u4e8b shokuji, meal). Also in \u98df\u3079\u7269 (tabemono, food), \u98df\u5802 (shokud\u014d, cafeteria), \u98df\u6b32 (shokuyoku, appetite).<\/p>

            On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30b7\u30e7\u30af (shoku<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u305f\u30fb\u3079\u308b (ta(beru)<\/em>)<\/p>

            Example word:<\/strong> \u98df\u3079\u308b (\u305f\u3079\u308b, taberu<\/em>) \u2013 to eat<\/p>

            Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u98df in its full form looks like a roof with something inside (the top part is a roof or lid) and the bottom part is a bit like a fork or spoon if you use imagination. Actually, it\u2019s supposed to depict a person opening their mouth wide under a roof, meaning they are about to eat. Another perspective: imagine a dining table with a cover. There\u2019s also the idea that it\u2019s someone kneeling and opening mouth to receive food. For ease, note that the katakana for eat \u201ctaberu\u201d is nothing like it, but \u201cshoku\u201d you see in terms like \u98df\u54c1 (shokuhin, food products). To remember taberu, you likely already do since it\u2019s basic. Just connect that verb with this kanji. The kanji appears in signs for restaurants often as part of phrases, and obviously in menus for \u201cset meal\u201d (\u5b9a\u98df teishoku). If the shape doesn\u2019t stick initially, remember the story: roof + food = to eat, like a family eating under a roof. Or see it as a combination of \u4eba (person) and \u826f (good) \u2013 good person eats well? Perhaps stick to: the kanji kind of looks like a fork and something being placed under a cover, as if serving a meal. In any case, know \u98df\u3079\u308b is written with \u98df.<\/p>
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          12. \u98f2<\/a> (To drink; A drink)<\/strong>: Means \u201cto drink\u201d (verb \u98f2\u3080, nomu) and also \u201cdrink\u201d as noun in compounds (\u98f2\u6599 inry\u014d, beverage). Appears in \u98f2\u307f\u7269 (nomimono, a drink\/beverage), \u98f2\u9152 (inshu, drinking alcohol), \u98f2\u98df\u5e97 (inshokuten, restaurant\/bar, \u201cdrinking and eating establishment\u201d).<\/p>

            On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30a4\u30f3 (in<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u306e\u30fb\u3080 (no(mu)<\/em>)<\/p>

            Example word:<\/strong> \u98f2\u3080 (\u306e\u3080, nomu<\/em>) \u2013 to drink<\/p>

            Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u98f2 has the \u98df (eat) radical on the left, and on the right a component \u6b20 which looks like a person yawning or opening mouth (this radical often implies \u201cto lack\u201d or \u201cyawn\u201d). Combine them: eating radical + open mouth = drink. More specifically, imagine someone drinking soup \u2013 the left side is food\/drink, the right side is a mouth slurping. Or think of it as \u201cto eat (\u98df) and then a person tilting their head back (\u6b20) to drink.\u201d Since we just learned \u98df, seeing it inside \u98f2 helps: add \u201ceat\u201d plus something to do with mouth, you get \u201cdrink.\u201d The verb \u98f2\u3080 (nomu) you likely know for \u201cto drink.\u201d So just associate that with this kanji. \u98f2\u307f\u7269 (drink) is a common noun every beginner learns too. So memorize that spelling: \u98f2\u307f\u7269 (both kanji mean \u201cdrink thing\u201d literally). The shape of \u6b20 looks like someone raising a cup to their mouth. So yeah \u2013 drink!<\/p>
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          13. \u8a00<\/a> (To say; Word)<\/strong>: Means \u201cto say\u201d (verb \u8a00\u3046, iu) and \u201cword\u201d or \u201cspeech\u201d in compounds. It\u2019s the root of the words we saw in \u8a9e and \u8a71. Appears in \u8a00\u8a9e (gengo, language), \u767a\u8a00 (hatsugen, a remark), \u8a00\u8449 (kotoba, word or language).<\/p>

            On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30b2\u30f3 (gen<\/em>), \u30b4\u30f3 (gon<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3044\u30fb\u3046 (i(u)<\/em>), \u3053\u3068 (koto<\/em> as in \u201cthing said\u201d)<\/p>

            Example word:<\/strong> \u8a00\u3046 (\u3044\u3046, iu<\/em>) \u2013 to say<\/p>

            Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u8a00 looks like a stack of lines (words) coming out of a mouth (the little dot or short line at bottom could be the mouth). Indeed, it\u2019s often called the \u201cspeech\u201d radical, and many kanji related to speech have this component. On its own, \u8a00 means \u201cto say\u201d or \u201cwords.\u201d You can remember it by seeing it as a kind of speech bubble or sound waves. Another idea: it looks a bit like the kanji for \u201ctongue\u201d (\u820c) plus an extra line at top \u2013 an emphasized tongue = speaking. Either way, Japanese kids often learn this by associating it with lines of words. The reading \u3044\u3046 (iu) is irregular because you\u2019d think it might be \u201cyuu\u201d from spelling, but it\u2019s pronounced \u201ciu.\u201d It\u2019s a very common verb (\u201cto say\u201d or \u201cto call\u201d). The noun \u8a00\u8449 (kotoba) uses \u8a00 to mean word or language (\u8449 = leaf, so \u201cword leaves\u201d kind of poetic). You might also know \u8a00\u3063\u3066 (itte, \u201csay ~\u201d or as part of phrase \u201citte kudasai\u201d). Given its recurring presence in compound words, the shape will get familiar. Just think of the horizontal lines as words flowing.<\/p>
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          14. \u7acb<\/a> (To stand; To establish)<\/strong>: Means \u201cto stand\u201d (verb \u7acb\u3064, tatsu) and also \u201cto establish\u201d in compounds (like \u7acb\u6cd5 ripp\u014d, legislation). You\u2019ll see it on signs like \u7acb\u5165\u7981\u6b62 (tachiiri kinshi, \u201cNo Entry\u201d literally \u201cstanding-enter forbidden\u201d), \u56fd\u7acb (kokuritsu, national, \u201ccountry-established\u201d), \u5f79\u306b\u7acb\u3064 (yaku ni tatsu, to be useful, \u201cstand to role\u201d).<\/p>

            On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30ea\u30c4 (ritsu<\/em>), \u30ea\u30e5\u30a6 (ry\u016b<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u305f\u30fb\u3064 (ta(tsu)<\/em>)<\/p>

            Example word:<\/strong> \u7acb\u3064 (\u305f\u3064, tatsu<\/em>) \u2013 to stand (up)<\/p>

            Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u7acb looks like a person standing upright on the ground. It has a base and something upright with a little top. Or think of it as a plant sprouting up (but we already used that for \u751f). Better: picture someone standing with arms slightly out (the top part like a hat or arms). It\u2019s quite straightforward. It\u2019s often drawn like it has little legs at the bottom. So I see a person standing with arms akimbo. The verb \u7acb\u3064 (tatsu) is basic for \u201cto stand (up).\u201d The kanji is also used metaphorically for \u201cto start\/establish,\u201d like \u7acb\u6625 (risshun, start of spring) or \u79c1\u7acb\u5927\u5b66 (shiritsu daigaku, private university \u2013 established privately). But stick with the image of standing. Fun note: the sumo referee will shout \u201c\u305f\u3063\u3066\uff01\u201d (Tatte! Stand up!) similarly written with this kanji. Not that you need sumo to recall it \u2013 the shape\u2019s clear enough.<\/p>
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          15. \u4f1a<\/a> (To meet; Meeting)<\/strong>: Means \u201cto meet\u201d or \u201cmeeting.\u201d The verb is \u4f1a\u3046 (au, to meet). It\u2019s in \u4f1a\u793e (kaisha, company, literally \u201cmeeting society\u201d), \u4f1a\u793e\u54e1 (kaishain, company employee), \u4f1a\u8a71 (kaiwa, conversation), \u4f1a\u5834 (kaij\u014d, meeting site).<\/p>

            On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30ab\u30a4 (kai<\/em>), \u30a8 (e<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3042\u30fb\u3046 (a(u)<\/em>)<\/p>

            Example word:<\/strong> \u4f1a\u3046 (\u3042\u3046, au<\/em>) \u2013 to meet<\/p>

            Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u4f1a has the roof radical \u5b80 on top and underneath is the character for \u201cto assemble\u201d or a variant of \u201cmeet\u201d (like \u4eba with a squiggle). I always see \u4f1a as a picture: a few people meeting under one roof. It\u2019s like an umbrella covering people gathering. This clearly suggests a meeting or gathering. So think: under the roof (a meeting hall), people meet. That\u2019s \u4f1a. The verb \u4f1a\u3046 (au) is common for \u201cmeet\u201d \u2013 e.g., \u53cb\u9054\u306b\u4f1a\u3046 (tomodachi ni au, meet a friend). Also, this kanji appears in the word for party\/association \u2013 e.g., \u6559\u4f1a (ky\u014dkai, church, \u201cteaching meeting\u201d), \u5354\u4f1a (ky\u014dkai, association). For On\u2019yomi, in \u4f1a\u793e (kaisha) it\u2019s \u304b\u3044, and in \u4f1a\u8b70 (kaigi, meeting) it\u2019s \u304b\u3044 again, etc. But with the mnemonic of \u201cpeople under one roof gathering,\u201d you\u2019ll tie it to \u201cmeeting\u201d easily. And you can recall that company (\u4f1a\u793e) is literally \u201cmeeting of people\u201d plus \u201cshrine\/office\u201d (\u793e). So business folks are those who meet at the company. That fits our earlier \u793e explanation too. Anyway, \u4f1a = meet\/gather, and looks like it too!<\/p>
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            Common Adjectives (Descriptions)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

            Finally, here are basic descriptive kanji (mostly adjectives). These kanji are used to describe size, quantity, and basic qualities (new\/old, cheap\/expensive, etc.). In their Kun\u2019yomi forms, they usually pair with \u3044 to form i-adjectives (e.g., \u5927\u304d\u3044, ookii, big). The On\u2019yomi often appears when these kanji form part of compound nouns (e.g., \u5927\u5b66, daigaku, university). For a beginner, learning these will help you read simple descriptions like \u201cbig dog\u201d (\u5927\u304d\u3044\u72ac) or \u201ccheap price\u201d (\u5b89\u3044\u5024\u6bb5), and recognize words like \u5927\u4eba (adult, literally \u201cbig person\u201d) or \u9577\u7537 (eldest son, \u201clong\/eldest male\u201d). Pay attention to context for meaning; for example, \u5927 can mean \u201cbig\u201d but also \u201cgreat\u201d or \u201ca lot\u201d in compounds. We include a mnemonic to help recall each kanji\u2019s meaning and look.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

              \n

            1. \u591a<\/a> (Many; A lot)<\/strong>: Means \u201cmany\u201d or \u201cmuch.\u201d Used as an adjective \u591a\u3044 (ooi, many\/numerous) and in compounds like \u591a\u5c11 (tash\u014d, more or less\/somewhat), \u591a\u5206 (tabun, probably, literally \u201cmany part,\u201d but functionally an adverb meaning maybe\/probably).<\/p>

              On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30bf (ta<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u304a\u304a\u30fb\u3044 (oo(i)<\/em>)<\/p>

              Example word:<\/strong> \u591a\u3044 (\u304a\u304a\u3044, ooi<\/em>) \u2013 many, much (adjective)<\/p>

              Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u591a looks like two+ evening radicals \u5915 sort of stacked or overlapping. Think of \u201cmany evenings.\u201d If you have many<\/em> nights of work or many evenings out, that\u2019s a lot. Another way: it slightly resembles the kanji for evening (\u5915). Two evenings could imply many things happening. It\u2019s a bit abstract, but remember the adjective \u304a\u304a\u3044 sounds like \u201coh oy\u201d (just kidding) but it\u2019s simply the word for many. Maybe connect \u304a\u304a\u3044 with \u5927\u304d\u3044 (big) since both start with \u304a\u304a \u2013 something that is big or in large quantity. To recall the shape, just think that it has multiple strokes going in different directions, giving a sense of plurality. \u591a = a lot. (If it helps: imagine the top as a person with arms out, and the bottom as an extra leg \u2013 a mutant with many limbs?)<\/p>
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            2. \u5c11<\/a> (Few; A little)<\/strong>: Means \u201cfew\u201d or \u201ca little.\u201d As an adjective \u5c11\u306a\u3044 (sukunai, few) and adverb \u5c11\u3057 (sukoshi, a little). Also in \u5c11\u5e74 (sh\u014dnen, boy\/youngster), \u5c11\u3005 (sh\u014dsh\u014d, a little bit \/ polite term).<\/p>

              On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30b7\u30e7\u30a6 (sh\u014d<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3059\u304f\u30fb\u306a\u3044 (suku(nai)<\/em>), \u3059\u3053\u30fb\u3057 (suko(shi)<\/em>)<\/p>

              Example word:<\/strong> \u5c11\u3057 (\u3059\u3053\u3057, sukoshi<\/em>) \u2013 a little, slightly<\/p>

              Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u5c11 has the small radical \u5c0f with an extra stroke (it looks like a small plus a tiny dot or hook). Think of it as \u201csmall (\u5c0f) and then even a bit more small (the extra tick).\u201d So it\u2019s like emphasizing smallness \u2013 hence few or little. The shape itself is minimal, appropriately. \u5c11\u306a\u3044 (sukunai) means few\/scarce, and \u5c11\u3057 (sukoshi) means a little. If you remember sukoshi from phrases like \u5c11\u3057\u308f\u304b\u308a\u307e\u3059 (sukoshi wakarimasu, \u201cI understand a little\u201d), that\u2019s this kanji. A trick: \u5c11\u3057 sounds like \u201cskosh\u201d \u2013 which English actually borrowed as \u201cskosh\u201d meaning a smidge. And that comes from this Japanese word! So \u5c11 = a small amount. Just envision the kanji \u5c0f (small), and then think that \u5c11 is small with something extra small \u2014 ironically making the total meaning \u201csmall in number.\u201d<\/p>
              <\/li>\n\n\n\n

            3. \u53e4<\/a> (Old)<\/strong>: Means \u201cold\u201d (not for people\u2019s age, but for things). As an adjective \u53e4\u3044 (furui, old, used for objects), and in \u53e4\u4ee3 (kodai, ancient times), \u4e2d\u53e4 (ch\u016bko, secondhand). Note: for people you use \u5e74\u5bc4\u308a (toshiyori) or \u8001\u3044\u305f, not \u53e4\u3044.<\/p>

              On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30b3 (ko<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3075\u308b\u30fb\u3044 (furu(i)<\/em>)<\/p>

              Example word:<\/strong> \u53e4\u3044 (\u3075\u308b\u3044, furui<\/em>) \u2013 old (for objects, ideas, etc., not age of people)<\/p>

              Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u53e4 is \u5341 (ten) over \u53e3 (mouth). One interpretation: something that has been said by ten generations of mouths is old. Or \u201cten mouths ago\u201d (a silly phrase) \u2013 basically antiquity. Another view: a mouth that has been open for ten (whatever units) \u2013 maybe a yawning old person? The more standard mnemonic: ten (\u5341) and mouth (\u53e3) suggests something that\u2019s been around for a long time (as if a story told by ten mouths, passed down). So \u53e4 = old. The reading \u3075\u308b (furu) you know from \u53e4\u3044. Think \u201cfurui = old,\u201d maybe \u201cold things gather fur<\/em> (furui) from dust\u201d? Actually, the sound \u201cfurui\u201d might remind you of \u201cfur\u201d like an old coat. Slight connection but anyway. When you see \u53e4 in compound like \u53e4\u672c (furuhon, used book) or \u53e4\u7740 (furugi, used clothing), it still has that reading \u201cfuru\u201d as a prefix meaning secondhand\/old. So it\u2019s consistent. The kanji\u2019s look (\u5341 above \u53e3) is unique \u2013 once you tie it to \u201cold,\u201d you\u2019ll recall the \u201cten mouths\u201d legend or something to justify it.<\/p>
              <\/li>\n\n\n\n

            4. \u65b0<\/a> (New)<\/strong>: Means \u201cnew.\u201d As an adjective \u65b0\u3057\u3044 (atarashii, new) and in compounds like \u65b0\u805e (shinbun, newspaper, \u201cnew hearing\u201d), \u65b0\u5e74 (shinnen, New Year), \u65b0\u5e79\u7dda (Shinkansen, bullet train, \u201cnew trunk line\u201d).<\/p>

              On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30b7\u30f3 (shin<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3042\u305f\u3089\u30fb\u3057\u3044 (atara(shii)<\/em>)<\/p>

              Example word:<\/strong> \u65b0\u3057\u3044 (\u3042\u305f\u3089\u3057\u3044, atarashii<\/em>) \u2013 new<\/p>

              Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u65b0 is a combo of \u4eb2 (which looks like \u89aa minus something, meaning parent or \u201cto be intimate\u201d) and \u65a4 (axe). One explanation: to make something new, you cut the old with an axe. Another: think of a newly chopped tree (wood + axe). The left part resembles a standing tree, the right part is an axe. So an axe cutting wood yields fresh timber = new. It\u2019s a bit of a stretch, but if you see the shape as \u201cstanding tree\u201d and \u201caxe,\u201d that can cue \u201cnewly cut.\u201d The adjective atarashii you likely know as opposite of \u53e4\u3044. And interestingly \u65b0\u805e (newspaper) uses \u65b0 (new) + \u805e (hear) = \u201cnew hear\u201d i.e., news. So \u65b0 = new. The kanji has a clear vertical structure with something that looks like \u7acb (stand) and \u6728 (tree) fused on left, and \u65a4 (axe) on right. Use the \u201cnew wood\u201d story to solidify meaning. Also, remember the phrase \u65b0\u3057\u3044 (Atari\u2019s new console? Atarashii = new). Maybe \u201cA tall, lush tree stands newly cut by an axe\u201d \u2013 whatever helps.<\/p>
              <\/li>\n\n\n\n

            5. \u5927<\/a> (Big; Large; Great)<\/strong>: Means \u201cbig\u201d or \u201clarge.\u201d As an adjective \u5927\u304d\u3044 (\u014dkii, big). Also in \u5927\u4eba (otona, adult, literally \u201cbig person\u201d), \u5927\u5b66 (daigaku, university, \u201cbig learning\u201d), \u5927\u4f7f\u9928 (taishikan, embassy, \u201cbig use building\u201d sort of literal meaning).<\/p>

              On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30c0\u30a4 (dai<\/em>), \u30bf\u30a4 (tai<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u304a\u304a\u30fb\u304d\u3044 (\u014dkii<\/em>), \u304a\u304a- (oo-<\/em> prefix)<\/p>

              Example word:<\/strong> \u5927\u304d\u3044 (\u304a\u304a\u304d\u3044, \u014dkii<\/em>) \u2013 big, large<\/p>

              Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u5927 is literally a person with arms and legs stretched out wide \u2013 like saying \u201cTHIS BIG!\u201d It\u2019s one of the simplest kanji: a stick figure standing with arms up. That clearly means \u201clarge.\u201d You can\u2019t forget that shape. It\u2019s like a kid saying \u201cI caught a fish thiiiis big\u201d with arms apart. The reading \u304a\u304a (\u014d) is literally the prefix for big (e.g., \u5927\u96e8 \u014dame, heavy rain). The On\u2019yomi dai appears in words like \u5927\u5b66\u751f (daigakusei, university student) and \u5927\u4e08\u592b (daij\u014dbu, okay\/alright \u2013 original meaning \u201cbig man\u201d as in reliable). But at beginner level, \u5927\u304d\u3044 is key. Just one look at \u5927 and you think \u201cbig person stretching out\u201d \u2013 so it\u2019s memorable as \u201cbig.\u201d<\/p>
              <\/li>\n\n\n\n

            6. \u5c0f<\/a> (Small; Little)<\/strong>: Means \u201csmall.\u201d Adjective \u5c0f\u3055\u3044 (ch\u012bsai, small). Also in \u5c0f\u5b66\u6821 (sh\u014dgakk\u014d, elementary school, \u201csmall school\u201d), \u5c0f\u8aac (sh\u014dsetsu, novel, \u201csmall talk\u201d originally), \u5c0f\u72ac (koinu, puppy, \u201csmall dog\u201d).<\/p>

              On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30b7\u30e7\u30a6 (sh\u014d<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3061\u3044\u30fb\u3055\u3044 (chii(sai)<\/em>), \u3053 (ko<\/em> prefix), \u304a (o<\/em> prefix, old usage)<\/p>

              Example word:<\/strong> \u5c0f\u3055\u3044 (\u3061\u3044\u3055\u3044, chiisai<\/em>) \u2013 small, little<\/p>

              Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u5c0f looks like three little drops or a small object. It\u2019s basically three strokes converging downward, giving the impression of something tiny. If \u5927 was a person with arms out, \u5c0f could be seen as a person with arms down, or just three little marks. Think of the phrase \u201csmall but precious\u201d and imagine three small droplets of something valuable. Or simply remember: it\u2019s the opposite of \u5927 in visual weight \u2013 \u5927 is broad, \u5c0f is narrow. The reading \u3061\u3044\u3055\u3044 (chiisai) you certainly have encountered meaning small. Also, the kun-prefix \u201c\u5c0f(\u3055\u3044)\u201d often appears as \u3053 or \u304a in some words: e.g., \u5c0f\u5ddd (ogawa, small stream) and \u5c0f\u9ce5 (kotori, little bird). On\u2019yomi sh\u014d is used in \u5c0f\u5b66\u751f (sh\u014dgakusei, elementary student). The kanji\u2019s shape is minimal and suggests smallness, which matches perfectly.<\/p>
              <\/li>\n\n\n\n

            7. \u5b89<\/a> (Cheap; Peaceful; Safe)<\/strong>: This kanji carries meanings of \u201ccheap\u201d (in price) and \u201csafe\/peaceful.\u201d Adjective \u5b89\u3044 (yasui, cheap\/inexpensive). In compounds, it can mean safety (\u5b89\u5168 anzen) or peace (\u5b89\u5b9a antei, stability). Also in \u5b89\u5fc3 (anshin, relief\/peace of mind).<\/p>

              On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30a2\u30f3 (an<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3084\u3059\u30fb\u3044 (yasu(i)<\/em>)<\/p>

              Example word:<\/strong> \u5b89\u3044 (\u3084\u3059\u3044, yasui<\/em>) \u2013 cheap, inexpensive<\/p>

              Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u5b89 has the roof radical \u5b80 on top and \u5973 (woman) underneath. A common mnemonic: a woman under a roof is at peace (safe and content). Traditional sexist aside, it\u2019s an easy image: at home (roof) the woman is safe = peace. Also historically, maybe indicates a peaceful household. Anyway, from \u201cpeace\u201d came also the idea of \u201cease\u201d and \u201ccheap\u201d (affordable things put you at ease?). For our use, \u5b89\u3044 (yasui) means cheap. So think: under the roof, price goes down because overhead is low? Eh. Alternatively, remember \u5b89 as an antonym to \u9ad8 (expensive\/tall). \u5b89 just looks like a calm symbol with a roof \u2013 so maybe think \u201clow\u201d or \u201ccheap.\u201d Also \u5b89\u5168 (anzen) is safety, and \u5b89\u5fc3 (anshin) is relief. So the underlying concept is safety\/peace. And when you bargain for a cheap item, you want a safe\/peaceful feeling on your wallet. The image of a woman under a roof = safe can help recall that double meaning: safe & cheap (like \u201crest easy, it\u2019s cheap!\u201d). In any case, yasui is such a common word (stores often have \u5b89\u3044 on sale tags) that linking it to this kanji will be natural after a few exposures.<\/p>
              <\/li>\n\n\n\n

            8. \u9ad8<\/a> (Tall; High; Expensive)<\/strong>: Means \u201ctall,\u201d \u201chigh,\u201d or \u201cexpensive.\u201d Adjective \u9ad8\u3044 (takai) can mean both \u201ctall\/high\u201d (like height) or \u201cexpensive\u201d (high price). Appears in \u9ad8\u6821 (k\u014dk\u014d, high school), \u6700\u9ad8 (saik\u014d, highest or \u201cawesome!\u201d colloquially), \u9ad8\u901f (k\u014dsoku, high-speed).<\/p>

              On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30b3\u30a6 (k\u014d<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u305f\u304b\u30fb\u3044 (taka(i)<\/em>)<\/p>

              Example word:<\/strong> \u9ad8\u3044 (\u305f\u304b\u3044, takai<\/em>) \u2013 high or expensive (depending on context; e.g., \u9ad8\u3044\u5c71 takai yama = a tall mountain, \u5024\u6bb5\u304c\u9ad8\u3044 nedan ga takai = the price is high [expensive])<\/p>

              Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u9ad8 looks like a tall structure like a tall building or perhaps a fancy tall hat on a mouth? It has a roof and something like the character for mouth (\u53e3) in it and a little legs. You can imagine it as a tall tower with a window. It definitely conveys height more than width. If \u5b89 was woman under a roof, \u9ad8 is maybe a tall roof with something ornate below. Honestly, I always just brute memorized \u9ad8 because it\u2019s distinctive. It kind of resembles a ladder or multi-story building. For price, think: high building, high price. The reading \u305f\u304b is known from words like \u9ad8\u3055 (takasa, height) or the name Takashi (often written with this kanji meaning \u201cprosper\u201d or \u201ctall\u201d). Remember that \u9ad8\u3044 can mean physically high or pricey \u2013 context needed. But if someone says \u300c\u9ad8\u3044\u3067\u3059\uff01\u300d they usually mean \u201cThat\u2019s expensive!\u201d The On\u2019yomi shows in \u9ad8\u6821 (k\u014dk\u014d for high school, short for \u9ad8\u7b49\u5b66\u6821) and \u9ad8\u7d1a (k\u014dky\u016b, high class). Connect it with tall height or high cost in your mind. The shape\u2019s complexity relative to others might imply \u201chigh level.\u201d<\/p>
              <\/li>\n\n\n\n

            9. \u9577<\/a> (Long; Leader)<\/strong>: Means \u201clong\u201d (as in length or time) and also \u201cchief\/leader\u201d (as in \u90e8\u9577 buch\u014d, section chief). As an adjective \u9577\u3044 (nagai, long). Also used for eldest or senior: \u9577\u7537 (ch\u014dnan, eldest son), \u793e\u9577 (shach\u014d, company president, \u201ccompany chief\u201d).<\/p>

              On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30c1\u30e7\u30a6 (ch\u014d<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u306a\u304c\u30fb\u3044 (naga(i)<\/em>)<\/p>

              Example word:<\/strong> \u9577\u3044 (\u306a\u304c\u3044, nagai<\/em>) \u2013 long<\/p>

              Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u9577 looks a bit like a squiggly hair or a person with long hair trailing. In fact, some see it as a person with a big head and long hair or long legs. If you use your imagination, the top can be a head, and the downward strokes like flowing hair. That\u2019s one classic mnemonic: the kanji depicts a person with long hair, indicating \u201clong.\u201d For the leader meaning, think of length as longevity or seniority. The oldest (longest time served) person becomes chief. So \u9577 also means leader in compounds. But as a beginner, focus on \u9577\u3044 = long. A sentence like \u9aea\u304c\u9577\u3044 (kami ga nagai \u2013 hair is long) uses this. The On\u2019yomi ch\u014d appears in words for leaders (\u793e\u9577, school principal \u6821\u9577) or in length units (\u5ef6\u9577 ench\u014d, extension). To memorize the shape, picture Rapunzel (with long hair) or a long snake. Another hint: the left part is like hair comb (\u5f61), which is often associated with hair or decorative stuff. So think of combing long hair. That will get you to \u201clong.\u201d<\/p>
              <\/li>\n\n\n\n

            10. \u767d<\/a> (White)<\/strong>: Means \u201cwhite.\u201d Adjective \u767d\u3044 (shiroi, white). Also in \u767d\u7d19 (hakushi, blank paper), \u9762\u767d\u3044 (omoshiroi, interesting, literally \u201cface white\u201d originally meaning blank face i.e. curious), \u767d\u9ce5 (hakuch\u014d, swan \u201cwhite bird\u201d).<\/p>

              On\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u30cf\u30af (haku<\/em>), \u30d3\u30e3\u30af (byaku<\/em>); Kun\u2019yomi:<\/strong> \u3057\u308d (shiro<\/em>), \u3057\u308d\u30fb\u3044 (shiro(i)<\/em>)<\/p>

              Example word:<\/strong> \u767d\u3044 (\u3057\u308d\u3044, shiroi<\/em>) \u2013 white (adjective)<\/p>

              Mnemonic:<\/strong> \u767d looks like a little sun or a flame with a tiny stroke at the top. It\u2019s actually the character for \u201cwhite\u201d derived from a pictograph of sunlight or something pure. One common explanation: it\u2019s like the kanji \u65e5 (sun) with one less stroke, representing a faint sun or clear light = white. Or think of it as a white candle with a small flame (the top stroke could be a wick). Either way, it\u2019s fairly straightforward to recognize. \u767d is used in words for innocence or blankness (\u767d\u7d19 blank page). And the reading \u3057\u308d (shiro) you know from the adjective and maybe the noun (\u57ce shiro is castle, but spelled differently). In context, \u201cshiro\u201d alone as a noun means the color white. The On\u2019yomi haku is in words like \u767d\u8272 (hakushoku, white color) and \u767d\u591c (byakuya, white night). To not overcomplicate: see \u767d, think \u201cwhite.\u201d If it helps, picture an empty white box \u2013 that dot or short line at top might signify emptiness leaving the box (like an open lid). Eh, simpler: It\u2019s basically \u65e5 missing one stroke \u2013 the sun without a dot of sunspot \u2013 a clear bright sun = white.<\/p>
              <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

              These 100 kanji (with a slight emphasis on the first ~100 taught in beginner levels) form the core of everyday written Japanese. By learning their meanings, readings, and seeing them in common words, you\u2019ll be able to recognize a huge chunk of basic Japanese text. Keep practicing by reading simple sentences or signs; you\u2019ll soon find these characters popping out everywhere, from the \uffe5100 \u5186 coin (yen) to the \u51fa\u53e3 (exit) sign, to the pages of your first Japanese storybook.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

              Practice writing them to reinforce memory, but also practice seeing them in context – for example, read menus, labels, or children’s books. Many have additional meanings or use in compounds beyond what’s listed, but this guide hits their core daily-life usage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

              Study Tips: Focus on the kanji in groups (like numbers first, then days, etc.) rather than all at once. Use flashcards for readings and meanings.
              Try to connect the shape of the kanji with something memorable (as we did with mnemonics) – making a story or image in your mind greatly helps recall. And remember to revisit them regularly (spaced repetition). <\/p>\n\n\n\n

              With these kanji under your belt, you’ll find you can make sense of a surprising amount of written Japanese in everyday life – a rewarding payoff for your studies<\/p>\n\n\n\n

              When memorizing, use the mnemonics provided or make your own personal connections \u2013 silly or serious, whatever sticks in your memory. And don’t hesitate to consult kanji dictionaries like Jisho.org<\/a> for more example words and stroke order if you start writing them. With time and practice, these kanji will go from intimidating symbols to familiar friends on your Japanese learning journey. \u9811\u5f35\u3063\u3066\u304f\u3060\u3055\u3044 (Ganbatte kudasai \u2013 do your best) and happy studying!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

              Ready to test your kanji knowledge? Give our Random Joyo Kanji Generator a try here!<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

              Learning kanji can be one of the most challenging parts of learning Japanese, especially for beginners. This post introduces 100 of the most useful and commonly seen kanji in everyday Japanese. These are foundational characters you\u2019ll encounter in signs, menus, labels, dates, and basic vocabulary. Mastering them will give you a strong start in reading […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[16],"tags":[12],"class_list":["post-1738","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-kanji","tag-beginner"],"aioseo_notices":[],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.joyokanjikai.com\/learning-japanese\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1738","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.joyokanjikai.com\/learning-japanese\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.joyokanjikai.com\/learning-japanese\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.joyokanjikai.com\/learning-japanese\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.joyokanjikai.com\/learning-japanese\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1738"}],"version-history":[{"count":11,"href":"https:\/\/www.joyokanjikai.com\/learning-japanese\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1738\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1751,"href":"https:\/\/www.joyokanjikai.com\/learning-japanese\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1738\/revisions\/1751"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.joyokanjikai.com\/learning-japanese\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1738"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.joyokanjikai.com\/learning-japanese\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1738"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.joyokanjikai.com\/learning-japanese\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1738"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}