N3 · 中級 · Intermediate
N3 essential words
& phrases
3,355 words and phrases for the Intermediate level — the bridge between basic conversation and the harder reading material at N2.
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| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| ああ言う
(ああいう)
ああいう That kind of; like that | ああいう That kind of; like that |
| 愛 あい Deep, profound love or affection. | あい Deep, profound love or affection. |
| 相変わらず あいかわらず As usual, as ever, or the same as always. | あいかわらず As usual, as ever, or the same as always. |
| 愛情 あいじょう Deep affection and nurturing love | あいじょう Deep affection and nurturing love |
| 愛する あいする To love deeply or cherish. | あいする To love deeply or cherish. |
| 合図 あいず A signal, sign, or cue given to initiate a specific action. | あいず A signal, sign, or cue given to initiate a specific action. |
| 間中 あいだじゅう Throughout the entire duration; all during the whole time | あいだじゅう Throughout the entire duration; all during the whole time |
| 彼奴
(あいつ)
あいつ Informal term for that guy or thing, implying familiarity or disdain | あいつ Informal term for that guy or thing, implying familiarity or disdain |
| 相手 あいて The other party, partner, or opponent. | あいて The other party, partner, or opponent. |
| 生憎
(あいにく)
あいにく Unfortunately; unluckily; used to politely express regret over bad timing or circumstances. | あいにく Unfortunately; unluckily; used to politely express regret over bad timing or circumstances. |
| 愛用 あいよう habitual use of a favorite item | あいよう habitual use of a favorite item |
| 青白い あおじろい Sickly pale or bluish-white | あおじろい Sickly pale or bluish-white |
| 明かす あかす To reveal a secret or stay up all night until dawn | あかす To reveal a secret or stay up all night until dawn |
| 明かり あかり Illumination or a source of light. | あかり Illumination or a source of light. |
| 空き あき Vacancy, opening, or free time. | あき Vacancy, opening, or free time. |
| 明らか あきらか Obvious, evident, or clear; distinct and easy to understand. | あきらか Obvious, evident, or clear; distinct and easy to understand. |
| 諦める あきらめる to give up on a hope or resign oneself to a situation | あきらめる to give up on a hope or resign oneself to a situation |
| 飽きる あきる To get tired of; to lose interest | あきる To get tired of; to lose interest |
| 呆れる あきれる To be dumbfounded or exasperated by foolish behavior or absurdity | あきれる To be dumbfounded or exasperated by foolish behavior or absurdity |
| 握手 あくしゅ The act of shaking hands, or figurative reconciliation and cooperation. | あくしゅ The act of shaking hands, or figurative reconciliation and cooperation. |
| 欠伸
(あくび)
あくび A yawn; the act of yawning due to sleepiness or boredom. | あくび A yawn; the act of yawning due to sleepiness or boredom. |
| 明け方 あけがた Dawn or daybreak; the time when the sky begins to lighten before sunrise. | あけがた Dawn or daybreak; the time when the sky begins to lighten before sunrise. |
| 上げ あげ A rise, increase, or lift. | あげ A rise, increase, or lift. |
| 揚げ あげ Deep-fried food or fried tofu pouch | あげ Deep-fried food or fried tofu pouch |
| 憧れ あこがれ Deep admiration or yearning for an ideal. | あこがれ Deep admiration or yearning for an ideal. |
| 憧れる あこがれる To yearn for, long for, or admire. | あこがれる To yearn for, long for, or admire. |
| 足首 あしくび Ankle (literally ‘foot neck’). | あしくび Ankle (literally ‘foot neck’). |
| 味わう あじわう To taste, savor, or deeply experience. | あじわう To taste, savor, or deeply experience. |
| 預かり あずかり Temporary custody or holding of an item | あずかり Temporary custody or holding of an item |
| 預かり所 あずかりじょ, あずかりしょ Baggage check counter or cloakroom | あずかりじょ, あずかりしょ Baggage check counter or cloakroom |
| 預かる あずかる To look after, keep, or hold something temporarily for someone else. | あずかる To look after, keep, or hold something temporarily for someone else. |
| 預ける あずける To entrust, deposit, leave in care, or lean one’s weight against | あずける To entrust, deposit, leave in care, or lean one’s weight against |
| 汗 あせ Sweat, perspiration, or condensation forming on surfaces. | あせ Sweat, perspiration, or condensation forming on surfaces. |
| 与える あたえる To formally give or bestow, or to cause an abstract effect or influence. | あたえる To formally give or bestow, or to cause an abstract effect or influence. |
| 温まる あたたまる, あったまる To warm up or become warm, physically or emotionally | あたたまる, あったまる To warm up or become warm, physically or emotionally |
| 温める あたためる, あっためる To warm up food or liquids, incubate, or nurture a plan. | あたためる, あっためる To warm up food or liquids, incubate, or nurture a plan. |
| 当たり あたり A successful hit, win, or correct guess; a rate per unit; the physical sensation of contact. | あたり A successful hit, win, or correct guess; a rate per unit; the physical sensation of contact. |
| 辺り あたり Vicinity, surroundings, or approximately around a place, time, or option. | あたり Vicinity, surroundings, or approximately around a place, time, or option. |
| 当たり前 あたりまえ Natural, reasonable, or obvious; a matter of course. | あたりまえ Natural, reasonable, or obvious; a matter of course. |
| 当たる あたる To strike, make contact, be correct, win, or correspond to. | あたる To strike, make contact, be correct, win, or correspond to. |
| 彼方此方
(あちこち)
あちこち Here and there, scattered across locations, or out of logical order. | あちこち Here and there, scattered across locations, or out of logical order. |
| 悪化 あっか Worsening or deterioration of a condition or situation | あっか Worsening or deterioration of a condition or situation |
| あっさり あっさり Light, simple, or done easily without fuss. | あっさり Light, simple, or done easily without fuss. |
| あっという間 あっというま In the blink of an eye; the brief moment it takes to say ‘Ah’. | あっというま In the blink of an eye; the brief moment it takes to say ‘Ah’. |
| あっという間に あっというまに In the blink of an eye; in an instant. | あっというまに In the blink of an eye; in an instant. |
| 熱々 あつあつ Piping hot (food) or lovey-dovey (couple) | あつあつ Piping hot (food) or lovey-dovey (couple) |
| 扱い あつかい Treatment, handling, or dealing with someone or something. | あつかい Treatment, handling, or dealing with someone or something. |
| 扱う あつかう To handle, treat, carry products, or cover a topic. | あつかう To handle, treat, carry products, or cover a topic. |
| 集まり あつまり A gathering, meeting, or assembly. | あつまり A gathering, meeting, or assembly. |
| 当てる あてる To hit a target, apply to a surface, guess correctly, or call on someone. | あてる To hit a target, apply to a surface, guess correctly, or call on someone. |
| 跡 あと Physical traces, marks, or remains left behind. | あと Physical traces, marks, or remains left behind. |
| 穴 あな A physical hole or opening; metaphorically a flaw, deficit, or long shot. | あな A physical hole or opening; metaphorically a flaw, deficit, or long shot. |
| あなた方 あなたがた Polite plural ‘you’ used to address a group in formal or official settings. | あなたがた Polite plural ‘you’ used to address a group in formal or official settings. |
| 暴れる あばれる To act violently, rampage, or thrash around. | あばれる To act violently, rampage, or thrash around. |
| 溢れる あふれる To overflow physically, or to be brimming with emotions or people. | あふれる To overflow physically, or to be brimming with emotions or people. |
| 油 あぶら Liquid oil used for cooking, fuel, or machinery | あぶら Liquid oil used for cooking, fuel, or machinery |
| 甘やかす あまやかす To spoil or pamper someone through excessive leniency. | あまやかす To spoil or pamper someone through excessive leniency. |
| 余りに
(あまりに)
あまりに Excessively; so much that… | あまりに Excessively; so much that… |
| 誤って あやまって By mistake; accidentally. | あやまって By mistake; accidentally. |
| 誤り あやまり Factual error or mistake, typically used in formal or written contexts. | あやまり Factual error or mistake, typically used in formal or written contexts. |
| 誤る あやまる To make a mistake, err, or choose the wrong course of action. | あやまる To make a mistake, err, or choose the wrong course of action. |
| 荒い あらい Rough, wild, coarse, or reckless | あらい Rough, wild, coarse, or reckless |
| 粗い あらい Coarse texture, lack of detail, or sloppy work. | あらい Coarse texture, lack of detail, or sloppy work. |
| 予め
(あらかじめ)
あらかじめ In advance; beforehand (often implies necessary preparation) | あらかじめ In advance; beforehand (often implies necessary preparation) |
| 嵐 あらし A severe storm or figurative uproar. | あらし A severe storm or figurative uproar. |
| 争い あらそい Conflict, dispute, or competition. | あらそい Conflict, dispute, or competition. |
| 争う あらそう To compete, contend, or dispute. | あらそう To compete, contend, or dispute. |
| 新た あらた Formal ‘new’ or ‘renewed’ applied to abstract concepts, fresh starts, or replacements. | あらた Formal ‘new’ or ‘renewed’ applied to abstract concepts, fresh starts, or replacements. |
| 改めて あらためて Formally, properly, or again at a later time | あらためて Formally, properly, or again at a later time |
| 改める あらためる To formally change, revise, inspect, or do again properly. | あらためる To formally change, revise, inspect, or do again properly. |
| 凡ゆる
(あらゆる)
あらゆる All, every, or all possible | あらゆる All, every, or all possible |
| 表す あらわす To express thoughts or feelings, or to represent and signify. | あらわす To express thoughts or feelings, or to represent and signify. |
| 現れる あらわれる To appear, come into sight, or become visible. | あらわれる To appear, come into sight, or become visible. |
| 有難い
(ありがたい)
ありがたい Grateful or thankful; describing a situation as welcome or a blessing. | ありがたい Grateful or thankful; describing a situation as welcome or a blessing. |
| 有りがち
(ありがち)
ありがち Common, prone to happen, or predictable. | ありがち Common, prone to happen, or predictable. |
| 或る
(ある)
ある A pre-noun modifier indicating a certain specific but unnamed entity. | ある A pre-noun modifier indicating a certain specific but unnamed entity. |
| 或いは
(あるいは)
あるいは Formal term meaning ‘or’ (alternatively) or ‘perhaps’ (possibly). | あるいは Formal term meaning ‘or’ (alternatively) or ‘perhaps’ (possibly). |
| ある意味で あるいみで In a sense; in a way. | あるいみで In a sense; in a way. |
| ある意味では あるいみでは In a sense, or from a certain point of view. | あるいみでは In a sense, or from a certain point of view. |
| 彼是
(あれこれ)
あれこれ, かれこれ This and that, various things; or roughly/nearly (regarding time) | あれこれ, かれこれ This and that, various things; or roughly/nearly (regarding time) |
| あれだけ あれだけ That much, or to that extent. | あれだけ That much, or to that extent. |
| あれ程
(あれほど)
あれほど To that extent; that much | あれほど To that extent; that much |
| 合わせる あわせる To match, combine, or bring things together. | あわせる To match, combine, or bring things together. |
| 慌てる あわてる To become flustered, panic, or act in a frantic rush. | あわてる To become flustered, panic, or act in a frantic rush. |
| 案 あん A plan, proposal, draft, or thought-out idea. | あん A plan, proposal, draft, or thought-out idea. |
| 案外 あんがい Unexpectedly or surprisingly; contrary to expectations | あんがい Unexpectedly or surprisingly; contrary to expectations |
| 暗記 あんき Memorization; learning by heart. | あんき Memorization; learning by heart. |
| 暗号 あんごう Secret code, cipher, or password | あんごう Secret code, cipher, or password |
| 安定 あんてい Stability, steadiness, or equilibrium. | あんてい Stability, steadiness, or equilibrium. |
| 案内 あんない Guidance, leading the way, or providing information and notices. | あんない Guidance, leading the way, or providing information and notices. |
| アップ アップ Refers to an increase, upload, close-up shot, or warm-up. | アップ Refers to an increase, upload, close-up shot, or warm-up. |
| アピール アピール Emphasizing a selling point or making a public plea. | アピール Emphasizing a selling point or making a public plea. |
| アンケート アンケート Questionnaire, survey, or poll. | アンケート Questionnaire, survey, or poll. |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 胃 い Stomach (anatomical organ) | い Stomach (anatomical organ) |
| 言い表す いいあらわす To express thoughts or feelings in words. | いいあらわす To express thoughts or feelings in words. |
| 言い返す いいかえす To talk back or retort. | いいかえす To talk back or retort. |
| いい加減 いいかげん Irresponsible, careless, or reaching a considerable limit. | いいかげん Irresponsible, careless, or reaching a considerable limit. |
| いい加減にしろ いいかげんにしろ A forceful, angry command meaning ‘that is enough’ or ‘cut it out.’ | いいかげんにしろ A forceful, angry command meaning ‘that is enough’ or ‘cut it out.’ |
| 言い出す いいだす To start saying something; to bring up a topic | いいだす To start saying something; to bring up a topic |
| 言い訳 いいわけ An excuse to justify a mistake or avoid blame. | いいわけ An excuse to justify a mistake or avoid blame. |
| 委員 いいん Committee member | いいん Committee member |
| 医院 いいん A doctor’s office or small medical clinic | いいん A doctor’s office or small medical clinic |
| 委員会 いいんかい A formal committee, board, or commission appointed to oversee a specific task or area. | いいんかい A formal committee, board, or commission appointed to oversee a specific task or area. |
| 家出 いえで Running away from home | いえで Running away from home |
| 生かす いかす To make the best use of something or keep it alive | いかす To make the best use of something or keep it alive |
| 怒り いかり The noun for anger or rage. | いかり The noun for anger or rage. |
| 以外 いがい With the exception of; other than; besides. | いがい With the exception of; other than; besides. |
| 意外 いがい Unexpected, surprising, or contrary to expectations. | いがい Unexpected, surprising, or contrary to expectations. |
| 医学 いがく Medical science; the study of medicine. | いがく Medical science; the study of medicine. |
| 行き いき, ゆき The outbound journey or bound for a specific destination. | いき, ゆき The outbound journey or bound for a specific destination. |
| 生き生き いきいき Lively, energetic, vivid, or fresh | いきいき Lively, energetic, vivid, or fresh |
| 勢い いきおい Force, vigor, momentum, or impulsive energy. | いきおい Force, vigor, momentum, or impulsive energy. |
| 生き返る いきかえる To come back to life; to feel completely refreshed or revitalized. | いきかえる To come back to life; to feel completely refreshed or revitalized. |
| 行き成り
(いきなり)
いきなり Abruptly, suddenly, or without warning | いきなり Abruptly, suddenly, or without warning |
| 生き物 いきもの Living thing or creature | いきもの Living thing or creature |
| 幾 いく How many, how much, some, or many | いく How many, how much, some, or many |
| 育児 いくじ Formal childcare or child-rearing | いくじ Formal childcare or child-rearing |
| 意見 いけん An opinion or view; also, an admonition or reprimand intended to correct behavior. | いけん An opinion or view; also, an admonition or reprimand intended to correct behavior. |
| 以降 いこう From a specific time onward; on and after. | いこう From a specific time onward; on and after. |
| 以後 いご From this point onward; thereafter | いご From this point onward; thereafter |
| 居酒屋 いざかや Casual Japanese pub serving alcoholic drinks and small shareable dishes. | いざかや Casual Japanese pub serving alcoholic drinks and small shareable dishes. |
| 医師 いし The formal term for a medical doctor or physician. | いし The formal term for a medical doctor or physician. |
| 意識 いしき Consciousness, awareness, or conscious attention | いしき Consciousness, awareness, or conscious attention |
| 意識的 いしきてき Conscious, intentional, or deliberate. | いしきてき Conscious, intentional, or deliberate. |
| 衣食住 いしょくじゅう The basic necessities of life: clothing, food, and shelter | いしょくじゅう The basic necessities of life: clothing, food, and shelter |
| 維持 いじ To maintain or keep a state or condition as it is. | いじ To maintain or keep a state or condition as it is. |
| 虐め
(いじめ)
いじめ Bullying, harassment, or mistreatment. | いじめ Bullying, harassment, or mistreatment. |
| 苛める
(いじめる)
いじめる To bully, pick on, or treat harshly. | いじめる To bully, pick on, or treat harshly. |
| 異常 いじょう Abnormality, malfunction, or deviation from the norm. | いじょう Abnormality, malfunction, or deviation from the norm. |
| 意地悪 いじわる Mean, nasty, or ill-natured. | いじわる Mean, nasty, or ill-natured. |
| 以前 いぜん Formally means before, previously, or in the past. | いぜん Formally means before, previously, or in the past. |
| 急ぎ いそぎ Haste, urgency, or an urgent matter | いそぎ Haste, urgency, or an urgent matter |
| 板 いた A flat board, plank, or sheet; also refers to a chef or stage. | いた A flat board, plank, or sheet; also refers to a chef or stage. |
| 悪戯
(いたずら)
いたずら Mischief, practical jokes, or tampering. | いたずら Mischief, practical jokes, or tampering. |
| 痛み いたみ Physical or emotional pain, ache, or damage. | いたみ Physical or emotional pain, ache, or damage. |
| 痛む いたむ To ache, feel pain, be damaged, or spoil. | いたむ To ache, feel pain, be damaged, or spoil. |
| 炒める いためる To stir-fry or sauté. | いためる To stir-fry or sauté. |
| 痛める いためる To injure, damage, or cause distress. | いためる To injure, damage, or cause distress. |
| 偉大 いだい Greatness or grandeur, reserved for exceptional people or monumental achievements. | いだい Greatness or grandeur, reserved for exceptional people or monumental achievements. |
| 位置 いち Physical location or abstract standing | いち Physical location or abstract standing |
| 一位 いちい First place in a ranking or the ones digit in mathematics. | いちい First place in a ranking or the ones digit in mathematics. |
| 一員 いちいん A member of a specific group or organization | いちいん A member of a specific group or organization |
| 一応 いちおう Tentatively, basically, or just in case | いちおう Tentatively, basically, or just in case |
| 一行 いちぎょう, いっこう One line of text or a traveling party. | いちぎょう, いっこう One line of text or a traveling party. |
| 一時 いちじ One o’clock, for a while, or temporarily. | いちじ One o’clock, for a while, or temporarily. |
| 一時的 いちじてき Temporary; lasting for a limited time | いちじてき Temporary; lasting for a limited time |
| 一同 いちどう all present; all concerned; everyone involved | いちどう all present; all concerned; everyone involved |
| 一部 いちぶ one part of a whole; one copy of a document | いちぶ one part of a whole; one copy of a document |
| 一面 いちめん The entire surface area, one aspect of a situation, or a newspaper’s front page | いちめん The entire surface area, one aspect of a situation, or a newspaper’s front page |
| 一夜 いちや, ひとよ One night or overnight | いちや, ひとよ One night or overnight |
| 一流 いちりゅう first-class; top-tier | いちりゅう first-class; top-tier |
| 一家 いっか, いっけ An entire family or household. | いっか, いっけ An entire family or household. |
| 一気に いっきに In one go without stopping; all at once. | いっきに In one go without stopping; all at once. |
| 一級 いっきゅう First class; first grade | いっきゅう First class; first grade |
| 一軒 いっけん Counter for one building, house, shop, or bar. | いっけん Counter for one building, house, shop, or bar. |
| 一件 いっけん One matter or case; counter for incidents, tasks, or emails | いっけん One matter or case; counter for incidents, tasks, or emails |
| 一種 いっしゅ A species, kind, or variety of something. | いっしゅ A species, kind, or variety of something. |
| 一周 いっしゅう One complete lap, circuit, or revolution. | いっしゅう One complete lap, circuit, or revolution. |
| 一周年 いっしゅうねん First anniversary | いっしゅうねん First anniversary |
| 一生 いっしょう One’s whole life; a lifetime. | いっしょう One’s whole life; a lifetime. |
| 一斉 いっせい Simultaneous action; all at once; in unison | いっせい Simultaneous action; all at once; in unison |
| 一斉に いっせいに Simultaneously; all at once; in unison | いっせいに Simultaneously; all at once; in unison |
| 一石二鳥 いっせきにちょう Killing two birds with one stone | いっせきにちょう Killing two birds with one stone |
| 一体 いったい United as a single entity, or an emphatic ‘what on earth’ in questions. | いったい United as a single entity, or an emphatic ‘what on earth’ in questions. |
| 一旦 いったん For the time being, temporarily, or once. | いったん For the time being, temporarily, or once. |
| 一致 いっち Agreement, perfect match, or unity. | いっち Agreement, perfect match, or unity. |
| 一着 いっちゃく First place in a race, or one suit of clothing. | いっちゃく First place in a race, or one suit of clothing. |
| 一通 いっつう Counter for one letter, email, or official document | いっつう Counter for one letter, email, or official document |
| 一定 いってい Fixed, constant, or uniform; a certain specific level | いってい Fixed, constant, or uniform; a certain specific level |
| 一点 いってん A single point, dot, specific detail, score, or individual item. | いってん A single point, dot, specific detail, score, or individual item. |
| 一泊 いっぱく one night’s stay | いっぱく one night’s stay |
| 一般 いっぱん General, ordinary, or common as opposed to specific or specialized | いっぱん General, ordinary, or common as opposed to specific or specialized |
| 一般的 いっぱんてき General, typical, or common | いっぱんてき General, typical, or common |
| 一般に いっぱんに Generally, commonly, or in general. | いっぱんに Generally, commonly, or in general. |
| 一遍に
(いっぺんに)
いっぺんに All at once; in one go. | いっぺんに All at once; in one go. |
| 一歩 いっぽ A single physical step, a stage of progress, or a small margin. | いっぽ A single physical step, a stage of progress, or a small margin. |
| 一方 いっぽう One side of a pair, ‘on the other hand,’ or a trend continuing in one direction. | いっぽう One side of a pair, ‘on the other hand,’ or a trend continuing in one direction. |
| 一方的 いっぽうてき One-sided or unilateral, typically implying an unfair lack of consideration for the other party. | いっぽうてき One-sided or unilateral, typically implying an unfair lack of consideration for the other party. |
| いつの間にか いつのまにか Before one knows it; unnoticed | いつのまにか Before one knows it; unnoticed |
| 何時までも
(いつまでも)
いつまでも Forever, eternally, or indefinitely. | いつまでも Forever, eternally, or indefinitely. |
| 遺伝 いでん Biological heredity or the genetic transmission of traits from parents to children. | いでん Biological heredity or the genetic transmission of traits from parents to children. |
| 井戸 いど water well | いど water well |
| 移動 いどう Movement, travel, or transfer from one location to another. | いどう Movement, travel, or transfer from one location to another. |
| 田舎 いなか Rural countryside or one’s hometown | いなか Rural countryside or one’s hometown |
| 居眠り いねむり Dozing off; sleeping while sitting | いねむり Dozing off; sleeping while sitting |
| 命 いのち Life, life force, lifespan, or the most essential element of something | いのち Life, life force, lifespan, or the most essential element of something |
| 祈り いのり Prayer or earnest wish | いのり Prayer or earnest wish |
| 祈る いのる To pray to a higher power or earnestly wish for a positive outcome. | いのる To pray to a higher power or earnestly wish for a positive outcome. |
| 違反 いはん Violation of a rule, law, or agreement. | いはん Violation of a rule, law, or agreement. |
| 衣服 いふく Formal term for clothes, garments, or apparel. | いふく Formal term for clothes, garments, or apparel. |
| 今一
(いまいち)
いまいち Not quite right, lacking, or slightly disappointing. | いまいち Not quite right, lacking, or slightly disappointing. |
| 今頃 いまごろ Around this time, or happening much later than expected. | いまごろ Around this time, or happening much later than expected. |
| 今にも いまにも At any moment; on the verge of happening. | いまにも At any moment; on the verge of happening. |
| 移民 いみん Immigrant, emigrant, or the act of immigration/emigration. | いみん Immigrant, emigrant, or the act of immigration/emigration. |
| 否々
(いやいや)
いやいや Humbly deflecting praise, or acting unwillingly | いやいや Humbly deflecting praise, or acting unwillingly |
| 嫌がる いやがる To show signs of dislike or reluctance | いやがる To show signs of dislike or reluctance |
| 愈
(いよいよ)
いよいよ Finally, increasingly, or at the crucial moment | いよいよ Finally, increasingly, or at the crucial moment |
| 依頼 いらい Formal request or commission | いらい Formal request or commission |
| 以来 いらい Since; ever since; henceforth. | いらい Since; ever since; henceforth. |
| 苛々
(いらいら)
いらいら Irritation, impatience, or frustration. | いらいら Irritation, impatience, or frustration. |
| 入り いり Containing, entering, or turnout | いり Containing, entering, or turnout |
| 医療 いりょう Medical care or healthcare | いりょう Medical care or healthcare |
| 衣類 いるい Formal term for clothing, garments, or apparel. | いるい Formal term for clothing, garments, or apparel. |
| 入れ物 いれもの Container, case, or receptacle | いれもの Container, case, or receptacle |
| 色んな
(いろんな)
いろんな Casual term for various or all sorts of | いろんな Casual term for various or all sorts of |
| 祝う いわう To celebrate an occasion or congratulate someone. | いわう To celebrate an occasion or congratulate someone. |
| 所謂
(いわゆる)
いわゆる So-called; what is known as | いわゆる So-called; what is known as |
| 印 いん, しるし A personal seal or stamp used for identification, or a general mark, sign, or symbol. | いん, しるし A personal seal or stamp used for identification, or a general mark, sign, or symbol. |
| 印象 いんしょう Impression; the mental image or feeling formed about a person, place, or thing. | いんしょう Impression; the mental image or feeling formed about a person, place, or thing. |
| 飲食 いんしょく Formal term for eating and drinking, often found on signs and in regulations. | いんしょく Formal term for eating and drinking, often found on signs and in regulations. |
| 引退 いんたい Retirement from a specific profession or public role. | いんたい Retirement from a specific profession or public role. |
| 院長 いんちょう Director of a hospital, clinic, or institution. | いんちょう Director of a hospital, clinic, or institution. |
| 飲料 いんりょう A formal or written term for a beverage. | いんりょう A formal or written term for a beverage. |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 伺う うかがう To humbly visit, ask, or hear | うかがう To humbly visit, ask, or hear |
| 浮かぶ うかぶ To float, appear on the face, or come to mind | うかぶ To float, appear on the face, or come to mind |
| 受かる うかる To pass an exam, interview, or audition | うかる To pass an exam, interview, or audition |
| 嗽
(うがい)
うがい Gargling or rinsing the mouth | うがい Gargling or rinsing the mouth |
| ウキウキ うきうき Cheerful excitement or high spirits, often in anticipation | うきうき Cheerful excitement or high spirits, often in anticipation |
| 受け入れる うけいれる To accept, take in, or come to terms with proposals, people, or situations. | うけいれる To accept, take in, or come to terms with proposals, people, or situations. |
| 受付 うけつけ Reception desk; acceptance of applications | うけつけ Reception desk; acceptance of applications |
| 受け付ける うけつける To formally accept applications or requests; to stomach or tolerate | うけつける To formally accept applications or requests; to stomach or tolerate |
| 受け止める うけとめる To physically catch an object or to mentally accept and come to grips with a situation. | うけとめる To physically catch an object or to mentally accept and come to grips with a situation. |
| 受け取り うけとり Receiving, acceptance, or pickup | うけとり Receiving, acceptance, or pickup |
| 受け取る うけとる To physically receive an item or to interpret a meaning. | うけとる To physically receive an item or to interpret a meaning. |
| 受ける うける To receive, take (a test), or be funny. | うける To receive, take (a test), or be funny. |
| 動き うごき Movement, motion, or trend | うごき Movement, motion, or trend |
| 失う うしなう To lose something significant or abstract, such as a loved one, job, or opportunity, rather than simply misplacing an object. | うしなう To lose something significant or abstract, such as a loved one, job, or opportunity, rather than simply misplacing an object. |
| 後ろ姿 うしろすがた Appearance from behind | うしろすがた Appearance from behind |
| 右折 うせつ A right turn, used primarily in traffic and navigation contexts. | うせつ A right turn, used primarily in traffic and navigation contexts. |
| 嘘 うそ A lie or falsehood; often used as an exclamation of disbelief like “No way!” | うそ A lie or falsehood; often used as an exclamation of disbelief like “No way!” |
| 疑い うたがい Doubt or suspicion regarding the truth or someone’s actions. | うたがい Doubt or suspicion regarding the truth or someone’s actions. |
| 疑う うたがう To doubt the truth or suspect someone. | うたがう To doubt the truth or suspect someone. |
| 打ち明ける うちあける To confide, confess, or reveal hidden thoughts or secrets. | うちあける To confide, confess, or reveal hidden thoughts or secrets. |
| 打ち合わせ うちあわせ A preliminary meeting to coordinate plans and details. | うちあわせ A preliminary meeting to coordinate plans and details. |
| 打ち合わせる うちあわせる To discuss and arrange plans in advance, or to knock together | うちあわせる To discuss and arrange plans in advance, or to knock together |
| 内側 うちがわ, ないそく Inner side, interior surface, or inside area. | うちがわ, ないそく Inner side, interior surface, or inside area. |
| 宇宙 うちゅう The universe or outer space | うちゅう The universe or outer space |
| うっかり うっかり Carelessly or inadvertently acting due to a momentary lapse in attention. | うっかり Carelessly or inadvertently acting due to a momentary lapse in attention. |
| 訴え うったえ Lawsuit, legal action, or strong appeal. | うったえ Lawsuit, legal action, or strong appeal. |
| 訴える うったえる To sue legally, complain of symptoms, or appeal to emotions or reason. | うったえる To sue legally, complain of symptoms, or appeal to emotions or reason. |
| 打つ うつ, ぶつ To hit, strike, type, or inject. | うつ, ぶつ To hit, strike, type, or inject. |
| 写す うつす To copy, transcribe, or capture an image. | うつす To copy, transcribe, or capture an image. |
| 移す うつす To move, transfer, infect, or shift focus to a new target. | うつす To move, transfer, infect, or shift focus to a new target. |
| 移る うつる To move, transfer, or spread to another location or person. | うつる To move, transfer, or spread to another location or person. |
| 映る うつる To be reflected on a surface, projected on a screen, or appear in a photograph. | うつる To be reflected on a surface, projected on a screen, or appear in a photograph. |
| 写る うつる To be photographed, projected, or reflected | うつる To be photographed, projected, or reflected |
| 雨天 うてん Rainy weather (formal/written contexts) | うてん Rainy weather (formal/written contexts) |
| うとうと うとうと Dozing off or nodding off into a light sleep | うとうと Dozing off or nodding off into a light sleep |
| 奪う うばう To snatch or take something by force, or to captivate someone’s attention. | うばう To snatch or take something by force, or to captivate someone’s attention. |
| 上手い うまい Skillful, delicious, or successful. | うまい Skillful, delicious, or successful. |
| 上手く行く
(うまくいく)
うまくいく To go well, proceed smoothly, or work out successfully. | うまくいく To go well, proceed smoothly, or work out successfully. |
| 生まれつき うまれつき By nature, by birth, or innate. | うまれつき By nature, by birth, or innate. |
| 海辺 うみべ, かいへん Seaside or beach area | うみべ, かいへん Seaside or beach area |
| 生む うむ To give birth, lay eggs, or produce something new | うむ To give birth, lay eggs, or produce something new |
| 裏 うら The back, reverse side, or hidden aspect of something. | うら The back, reverse side, or hidden aspect of something. |
| 裏表 うらおもて Front and back sides, inside and out, or the contrast between a person’s outward appearance and inner nature. | うらおもて Front and back sides, inside and out, or the contrast between a person’s outward appearance and inner nature. |
| 裏返し うらがえし Inside out, face down, or the reverse expression of a feeling | うらがえし Inside out, face down, or the reverse expression of a feeling |
| 裏返す うらがえす To turn over; to turn inside out | うらがえす To turn over; to turn inside out |
| 裏切る うらぎる To betray someone or fail to meet expectations | うらぎる To betray someone or fail to meet expectations |
| 恨み うらみ Deep-seated resentment, ill will, or a personal grudge. | うらみ Deep-seated resentment, ill will, or a personal grudge. |
| 羨ましい うらやましい Envious; jealous; desiring another’s good fortune. | うらやましい Envious; jealous; desiring another’s good fortune. |
| 売り うり The act of selling, or a key selling point. | うり The act of selling, or a key selling point. |
| 売り上げ うりあげ Total sales, revenue, or amount sold. | うりあげ Total sales, revenue, or amount sold. |
| 売り切れ うりきれ Sold out or out of stock | うりきれ Sold out or out of stock |
| 売り切れる うりきれる To be sold out or go out of stock | うりきれる To be sold out or go out of stock |
| 売れる うれる To sell well, be in high demand, or become famous | うれる To sell well, be in high demand, or become famous |
| 浮気 うわき Romantic infidelity or cheating, ranging from a wandering eye to a physical affair. | うわき Romantic infidelity or cheating, ranging from a wandering eye to a physical affair. |
| 噂 うわさ Rumor, gossip, or hearsay. | うわさ Rumor, gossip, or hearsay. |
| 運 うん Luck, fortune, or fate | うん Luck, fortune, or fate |
| 運営 うんえい Management, administration, or operation of an organization or event | うんえい Management, administration, or operation of an organization or event |
| 運休 うんきゅう Suspension of transport service or operation. | うんきゅう Suspension of transport service or operation. |
| 運送 うんそう Transport or shipping of goods and freight. | うんそう Transport or shipping of goods and freight. |
| 運賃 うんちん Fare for passengers or shipping cost for goods | うんちん Fare for passengers or shipping cost for goods |
| 運転士 うんてんし Professional driver or operator (especially for trains and buses) | うんてんし Professional driver or operator (especially for trains and buses) |
| 運動 うんどう Physical exercise, social movement, or scientific motion. | うんどう Physical exercise, social movement, or scientific motion. |
| 運動会 うんどうかい Athletic meet; sports day | うんどうかい Athletic meet; sports day |
| 運命 うんめい, さだめ Fate, destiny, or a predetermined course of events beyond individual control. | うんめい, さだめ Fate, destiny, or a predetermined course of events beyond individual control. |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 永遠 えいえん Eternity or forever; infinite time without an end. | えいえん Eternity or forever; infinite time without an end. |
| 永久 えいきゅう Permanence; the state of lasting forever without change. | えいきゅう Permanence; the state of lasting forever without change. |
| 影響 えいきょう Influence or effect | えいきょう Influence or effect |
| 営業 えいぎょう Sales, business operations, or being open for business. | えいぎょう Sales, business operations, or being open for business. |
| 衛生 えいせい Hygiene, sanitation, and the preservation of health. | えいせい Hygiene, sanitation, and the preservation of health. |
| 栄養 えいよう Nutrition or nourishment. | えいよう Nutrition or nourishment. |
| 笑顔 えがお A smiling face or smile | えがお A smiling face or smile |
| 描く えがく, かく To draw, paint, depict, or form a mental image. | えがく, かく To draw, paint, depict, or form a mental image. |
| 液体 えきたい The standard term for a liquid substance, often used in scientific or formal contexts. | えきたい The standard term for a liquid substance, often used in scientific or formal contexts. |
| 枝 えだ Branch of a tree or plant. | えだ Branch of a tree or plant. |
| 絵の具 えのぐ Paint used for artistic purposes. | えのぐ Paint used for artistic purposes. |
| 偉い えらい Admirable, high-ranking, or great; informally severe, exhausting, or terrible. | えらい Admirable, high-ranking, or great; informally severe, exhausting, or terrible. |
| 得る える, うる To obtain or gain; also indicates possibility or potentiality. | える, うる To obtain or gain; also indicates possibility or potentiality. |
| 宴会 えんかい Banquet or formal party | えんかい Banquet or formal party |
| 延期 えんき Postponement of an event or deadline to a later date. | えんき Postponement of an event or deadline to a later date. |
| 演技 えんぎ The craft of acting or a performance in a play, movie, or drama. | えんぎ The craft of acting or a performance in a play, movie, or drama. |
| 演劇 えんげき Live theatre or stage play | えんげき Live theatre or stage play |
| 援助 えんじょ Assistance, aid, or financial support. | えんじょ Assistance, aid, or financial support. |
| 演説 えんぜつ Formal public speech or address | えんぜつ Formal public speech or address |
| 演奏 えんそう Musical performance, specifically on an instrument. | えんそう Musical performance, specifically on an instrument. |
| 演奏会 えんそうかい Formal concert or recital | えんそうかい Formal concert or recital |
| 延長 えんちょう Extension of time, physical length, or game duration. | えんちょう Extension of time, physical length, or game duration. |
| 園長 えんちょう Kindergarten principal or zoo director | えんちょう Kindergarten principal or zoo director |
| 遠慮 えんりょ Holding back out of politeness or refraining from an action. | えんりょ Holding back out of politeness or refraining from an action. |
| エピソード エピソード A specific anecdote or memorable incident from someone’s life. | エピソード A specific anecdote or memorable incident from someone’s life. |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| おい おい Rough, masculine interjection used to demand attention or express annoyance, similar to ‘Hey!’ or ‘Oi!’. | おい Rough, masculine interjection used to demand attention or express annoyance, similar to ‘Hey!’ or ‘Oi!’. |
| 追いかける おいかける To chase, run after, or pursue. | おいかける To chase, run after, or pursue. |
| 追い越す おいこす To physically pass or overtake; to surpass in ability or status. | おいこす To physically pass or overtake; to surpass in ability or status. |
| 追い出す おいだす To drive out; to kick out; to expel | おいだす To drive out; to kick out; to expel |
| 追いつく おいつく to catch up with someone or something physically or in progress | おいつく to catch up with someone or something physically or in progress |
| 王 おう King, monarch, or the supreme master of a domain. | おう King, monarch, or the supreme master of a domain. |
| 追う おう To chase, run after, or pursue physically or figuratively | おう To chase, run after, or pursue physically or figuratively |
| 応援 おうえん Cheering, encouragement, or support for a person or team. | おうえん Cheering, encouragement, or support for a person or team. |
| 王様 おうさま A king, particularly in stories, or metaphorically a dominant or entitled person. | おうさま A king, particularly in stories, or metaphorically a dominant or entitled person. |
| 王子 おうじ Prince; the son of a monarch. | おうじ Prince; the son of a monarch. |
| 応じる おうじる To accept a request or adapt to a situation. | おうじる To accept a request or adapt to a situation. |
| 応ずる おうずる, おうじる To respond to, agree to, or act in accordance with. | おうずる, おうじる To respond to, agree to, or act in accordance with. |
| 横断 おうだん Crossing; traversing (from side to side) | おうだん Crossing; traversing (from side to side) |
| 往復 おうふく A round trip; going to a destination and returning | おうふく A round trip; going to a destination and returning |
| 欧米 おうべい Europe and America; the West | おうべい Europe and America; the West |
| 応募 おうぼ Applying for a job, contest, or scholarship involving selection | おうぼ Applying for a job, contest, or scholarship involving selection |
| 応用 おうよう Practical application or putting theory into practice | おうよう Practical application or putting theory into practice |
| 終える おえる To actively finish or complete something | おえる To actively finish or complete something |
| 大いに おおいに Greatly, very much, or to a large extent | おおいに Greatly, very much, or to a large extent |
| 覆う おおう To cover, conceal, or hide from view | おおう To cover, conceal, or hide from view |
| 大げさ おおげさ Exaggerated, overblown, or dramatic | おおげさ Exaggerated, overblown, or dramatic |
| 大声 おおごえ, たいせい A loud voice or shout | おおごえ, たいせい A loud voice or shout |
| 大粒 おおつぶ Large individual drops, grains, or beads | おおつぶ Large individual drops, grains, or beads |
| 大晦日 おおみそか New Year’s Eve (December 31st) | おおみそか New Year’s Eve (December 31st) |
| 多め おおめ Slightly more than usual or a somewhat larger portion | おおめ Slightly more than usual or a somewhat larger portion |
| 大盛り おおもり Large serving or extra portion of food | おおもり Large serving or extra portion of food |
| 大家 おおや, たいか Landlord, or a leading authority or master in a field. | おおや, たいか Landlord, or a leading authority or master in a field. |
| 丘 おか A hill or rising ground smaller than a mountain. | おか A hill or rising ground smaller than a mountain. |
| お会計 おかいけい The bill, check, or payment at a shop or restaurant. | おかいけい The bill, check, or payment at a shop or restaurant. |
| お買い得 おかいどく A bargain or good value for the price | おかいどく A bargain or good value for the price |
| お陰様で
(おかげさまで)
おかげさまで Thanks to you; fortunately; thankfully | おかげさまで Thanks to you; fortunately; thankfully |
| お陰で
(おかげで)
おかげで Thanks to; because of (used for positive outcomes) | おかげで Thanks to; because of (used for positive outcomes) |
| 犯す おかす To commit a crime, serious error, or sexual assault | おかす To commit a crime, serious error, or sexual assault |
| お金持ち おかねもち A rich or wealthy person. | おかねもち A rich or wealthy person. |
| お代わり おかわり A second helping of food or a drink refill. | おかわり A second helping of food or a drink refill. |
| お気に入り おきにいり A favorite item, place, or person; a digital bookmark. | おきにいり A favorite item, place, or person; a digital bookmark. |
| 置き場 おきば Place to put something; storage area | おきば Place to put something; storage area |
| 補う おぎなう To supplement or make up for a lack | おぎなう To supplement or make up for a lack |
| 億 おく The number one hundred million. | おく The number one hundred million. |
| 奥様 おくさま Polite term for another person’s wife or madam | おくさま Polite term for another person’s wife or madam |
| 臆病 おくびょう Cowardly, timid, or easily frightened. | おくびょう Cowardly, timid, or easily frightened. |
| 贈り物 おくりもの A gift or present, often implying a nuance of formality or sincere appreciation. | おくりもの A gift or present, often implying a nuance of formality or sincere appreciation. |
| 贈る おくる To give as a gift or present an award | おくる To give as a gift or present an award |
| 遅れ おくれ A delay, lag, or the state of being behind. | おくれ A delay, lag, or the state of being behind. |
| お子様 おこさま Formal, respectful term for another person’s child or children in customer service contexts | おこさま Formal, respectful term for another person’s child or children in customer service contexts |
| 行い おこない Deeds, conduct, or behavior, especially in a moral context. | おこない Deeds, conduct, or behavior, especially in a moral context. |
| 行う おこなう To conduct, carry out, or hold an event. | おこなう To conduct, carry out, or hold an event. |
| 抑え おさえ A physical weight, restraint, or sports closer used to hold things down or keep them in check. | おさえ A physical weight, restraint, or sports closer used to hold things down or keep them in check. |
| 押さえる おさえる To physically hold something down, secure a reservation, or grasp the main point | おさえる To physically hold something down, secure a reservation, or grasp the main point |
| 収まる おさまる To fit into a space or limit, subside, or settle into place | おさまる To fit into a space or limit, subside, or settle into place |
| 治まる おさまる To naturally subside or settle down, particularly regarding pain, conflict, or weather. | おさまる To naturally subside or settle down, particularly regarding pain, conflict, or weather. |
| 収める おさめる To put away, store, include, or achieve a result. | おさめる To put away, store, include, or achieve a result. |
| 惜しい おしい So close yet missed, or too valuable to waste | おしい So close yet missed, or too valuable to waste |
| 押し込む おしこむ To push into, cram, or force entry. | おしこむ To push into, cram, or force entry. |
| おしっこ おしっこ Casual term for pee or urination, often used by or with children. | おしっこ Casual term for pee or urination, often used by or with children. |
| お絞り
(おしぼり)
おしぼり Wet hand towel served at restaurants. | おしぼり Wet hand towel served at restaurants. |
| お仕舞い
(おしまい)
おしまい The end; the conclusion of an activity or story. | おしまい The end; the conclusion of an activity or story. |
| お洒落
(おしゃれ)
おしゃれ Stylish, fashionable, or the act of dressing up | おしゃれ Stylish, fashionable, or the act of dressing up |
| お嬢さん おじょうさん Polite term for another person’s daughter or to address a young lady. | おじょうさん Polite term for another person’s daughter or to address a young lady. |
| お世辞 おせじ Flattery or an insincere compliment used for social politeness. | おせじ Flattery or an insincere compliment used for social politeness. |
| お世話になる おせわになる To be taken care of by someone; to be indebted for their assistance. | おせわになる To be taken care of by someone; to be indebted for their assistance. |
| 恐らく
(おそらく)
おそらく Formal “probably” or “most likely,” often implying a negative outcome. | おそらく Formal “probably” or “most likely,” often implying a negative outcome. |
| 恐れ おそれ Fear, dread, or the risk of something bad happening. | おそれ Fear, dread, or the risk of something bad happening. |
| 恐れる おそれる To deeply fear or dread an abstract concept, powerful force, or potential negative outcome. | おそれる To deeply fear or dread an abstract concept, powerful force, or potential negative outcome. |
| 恐ろしい おそろしい Terrifying, dreadful, or frighteningly intense. | おそろしい Terrifying, dreadful, or frighteningly intense. |
| 教わる おそわる To be taught; to learn from someone | おそわる To be taught; to learn from someone |
| お互いに おたがいに Mutually, reciprocally, or with each other | おたがいに Mutually, reciprocally, or with each other |
| お宅 おたく A polite reference to another person’s home, family, or a formal “you.” | おたく A polite reference to another person’s home, family, or a formal “you.” |
| 落ち込む おちこむ To feel down, slump, or fall into. | おちこむ To feel down, slump, or fall into. |
| 落ち着く おちつく To calm down, settle down, or stabilize. | おちつく To calm down, settle down, or stabilize. |
| お使い おつかい Errand or task run on behalf of another person | おつかい Errand or task run on behalf of another person |
| お手数ですが おてすうですが A polite phrase used to soften a request, meaning “sorry to trouble you, but…” | おてすうですが A polite phrase used to soften a request, meaning “sorry to trouble you, but…” |
| 御田
(おでん)
おでん Japanese hot pot dish of various ingredients simmered in a light, soy-flavored broth | おでん Japanese hot pot dish of various ingredients simmered in a light, soy-flavored broth |
| 男らしい おとこらしい Manly or masculine; exhibiting positive traits like strength, bravery, and dependability. | おとこらしい Manly or masculine; exhibiting positive traits like strength, bravery, and dependability. |
| お年玉 おとしだま Monetary gift given to children at New Year’s | おとしだま Monetary gift given to children at New Year’s |
| 訪れる おとずれる To visit a place, or for a season or situation to arrive | おとずれる To visit a place, or for a season or situation to arrive |
| 大人しい おとなしい Quiet, gentle, and well-behaved; subdued or modest in appearance. | おとなしい Quiet, gentle, and well-behaved; subdued or modest in appearance. |
| 大人っぽい おとなっぽい Adult-like or mature in appearance or behavior | おとなっぽい Adult-like or mature in appearance or behavior |
| 驚かす おどろかす To surprise, startle, or shock someone | おどろかす To surprise, startle, or shock someone |
| 驚き おどろき Surprise, astonishment, or wonder. | おどろき Surprise, astonishment, or wonder. |
| 驚く おどろく To be surprised, amazed, or shocked | おどろく To be surprised, amazed, or shocked |
| 同じく おなじく Likewise, similarly, or in the same way. | おなじく Likewise, similarly, or in the same way. |
| 鬼 おに Ogre, strict person, ‘it’ in tag, or slang for extremely | おに Ogre, strict person, ‘it’ in tag, or slang for extremely |
| お化け おばけ Ghost, monster, or something abnormally large | おばけ Ghost, monster, or something abnormally large |
| 覚え おぼえ Personal memory, recollection, or sense of familiarity | おぼえ Personal memory, recollection, or sense of familiarity |
| お参り おまいり Visiting a shrine, temple, or grave to pray or pay respects | おまいり Visiting a shrine, temple, or grave to pray or pay respects |
| お前 おまえ Informal second-person pronoun used by men to imply intimacy, superiority, or aggression. | おまえ Informal second-person pronoun used by men to imply intimacy, superiority, or aggression. |
| お負け
(おまけ)
おまけ A freebie, discount, or bonus added to a purchase or main item | おまけ A freebie, discount, or bonus added to a purchase or main item |
| お守り おまもり A protective amulet or good luck charm obtained from a shrine or temple. | おまもり A protective amulet or good luck charm obtained from a shrine or temple. |
| 主 おも, ぬし, しゅ, あるじ Main, principal, master, or owner. | おも, ぬし, しゅ, あるじ Main, principal, master, or owner. |
| 思い おもい Thoughts, feelings, wishes, or expectations. | おもい Thoughts, feelings, wishes, or expectations. |
| 思い切って おもいきって Boldly; taking the plunge; resolutely | おもいきって Boldly; taking the plunge; resolutely |
| 思い切り おもいきり With all one’s might, to one’s heart’s content, or decisiveness. | おもいきり With all one’s might, to one’s heart’s content, or decisiveness. |
| 思い切る おもいきる To make a bold decision or to give up completely | おもいきる To make a bold decision or to give up completely |
| 思いっきり おもいっきり with all one’s might; to one’s heart’s content | おもいっきり with all one’s might; to one’s heart’s content |
| 思いつき おもいつき A sudden idea or whim. | おもいつき A sudden idea or whim. |
| 思いつく おもいつく To come up with or hit upon an idea | おもいつく To come up with or hit upon an idea |
| 思いやり おもいやり Consideration, thoughtfulness, and compassion for others. | おもいやり Consideration, thoughtfulness, and compassion for others. |
| 思いやる おもいやる To be considerate of or sympathize with someone | おもいやる To be considerate of or sympathize with someone |
| 重たい おもたい Physically heavy to lift, or figuratively serious and gloomy | おもたい Physically heavy to lift, or figuratively serious and gloomy |
| 表 おもて, ひょう The visible front or surface of an object, or an organized table or chart. | おもて, ひょう The visible front or surface of an object, or an organized table or chart. |
| 主に おもに mainly; primarily | おもに mainly; primarily |
| 重み おもみ Physical heaviness or the figurative gravity and importance of something | おもみ Physical heaviness or the figurative gravity and importance of something |
| 思わず おもわず Unintentionally, instinctively, or without conscious thought. | おもわず Unintentionally, instinctively, or without conscious thought. |
| おや おや A mild interjection of surprise or discovery, similar to ‘Oh?’ or ‘My!’. | おや A mild interjection of surprise or discovery, similar to ‘Oh?’ or ‘My!’. |
| 親孝行 おやこうこう Filial piety; being a dutiful and devoted child to one’s parents | おやこうこう Filial piety; being a dutiful and devoted child to one’s parents |
| 親父 おやじ Informal term for one’s father, an old man, or a shop owner. | おやじ Informal term for one’s father, an old man, or a shop owner. |
| 親指 おやゆび Thumb (literally ‘parent finger’); big toe. | おやゆび Thumb (literally ‘parent finger’); big toe. |
| 凡そ
(およそ)
およそ Approximately, generally, or entirely. | およそ Approximately, generally, or entirely. |
| 折り返し おりかえし Returning a call, a turnaround point, or a folded cuff. | おりかえし Returning a call, a turnaround point, or a folded cuff. |
| 折り返す おりかえす To fold back, turn back, or return a call | おりかえす To fold back, turn back, or return a call |
| 折れる おれる To break, snap, be folded, turn a corner, or yield. | おれる To break, snap, be folded, turn a corner, or yield. |
| 恩 おん A deep debt of gratitude or moral obligation incurred from a favor. | おん A deep debt of gratitude or moral obligation incurred from a favor. |
| 恩返し おんがえし Repaying a kindness or returning a significant favor | おんがえし Repaying a kindness or returning a significant favor |
| 音楽家 おんがくか, おんがっか Musician, typically a professional or classical artist | おんがくか, おんがっか Musician, typically a professional or classical artist |
| 音声 おんせい Voice, speech, or audio. | おんせい Voice, speech, or audio. |
| 温度 おんど Temperature of objects, liquids, or spaces | おんど Temperature of objects, liquids, or spaces |
| 音読 おんどく Reading aloud | おんどく Reading aloud |
| 女らしい おんならしい Ladylike or feminine; having qualities traditionally associated with women. | おんならしい Ladylike or feminine; having qualities traditionally associated with women. |
| 音読み おんよみ Chinese-derived reading of a kanji | おんよみ Chinese-derived reading of a kanji |
| 音量 おんりょう Volume (sound level of a device) | おんりょう Volume (sound level of a device) |
| オートロック オートロック Automatic locking system for a building’s main entrance | オートロック Automatic locking system for a building’s main entrance |
| オーバー オーバー Exceeding limits, exaggerated behavior, or an overcoat | オーバー Exceeding limits, exaggerated behavior, or an overcoat |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 科 か Department, academic course, or biological family | か Department, academic course, or biological family |
| 可 か Permitted, acceptable, or a passing grade. | か Permitted, acceptable, or a passing grade. |
| 会 かい A meeting, gathering, or formal association. | かい A meeting, gathering, or formal association. |
| 会員 かいいん Member of a group or organization. | かいいん Member of a group or organization. |
| 開演 かいえん Start of a performance or curtain time | かいえん Start of a performance or curtain time |
| 開会 かいかい Opening of a meeting or ceremony | かいかい Opening of a meeting or ceremony |
| 改革 かいかく Major structural reform or overhaul of a system or organization. | かいかく Major structural reform or overhaul of a system or organization. |
| 開館 かいかん Opening of a public building or facility | かいかん Opening of a public building or facility |
| 会館 かいかん Meeting hall or large public assembly building | かいかん Meeting hall or large public assembly building |
| 海外 かいがい Overseas, abroad, or foreign countries. | かいがい Overseas, abroad, or foreign countries. |
| 会計 かいけい A bill, check, or the field of accounting. | かいけい A bill, check, or the field of accounting. |
| 解決 かいけつ Settlement, solution, or resolution of a problem or dispute. | かいけつ Settlement, solution, or resolution of a problem or dispute. |
| 開催 かいさい Holding or hosting a formal event, exhibition, or competition. | かいさい Holding or hosting a formal event, exhibition, or competition. |
| 改札 かいさつ Ticket gate or examination of tickets | かいさつ Ticket gate or examination of tickets |
| 解散 かいさん breaking up, disbanding, or dismissing a gathering | かいさん breaking up, disbanding, or dismissing a gathering |
| 開始 かいし Formal start or commencement. | かいし Formal start or commencement. |
| 解除 かいじょ To lift or cancel a restriction, ban, contract, or setting. | かいじょ To lift or cancel a restriction, ban, contract, or setting. |
| 会場 かいじょう Venue or site for an organized event | かいじょう Venue or site for an organized event |
| 開場 かいじょう Opening of the doors or venue | かいじょう Opening of the doors or venue |
| 海上 かいじょう On the sea, at sea, or maritime. | かいじょう On the sea, at sea, or maritime. |
| 海水浴 かいすいよく Sea bathing or swimming in the ocean | かいすいよく Sea bathing or swimming in the ocean |
| 回数 かいすう Number of times; frequency | かいすう Number of times; frequency |
| 回数券 かいすうけん A book of prepaid tickets or coupons for multiple uses of a service. | かいすうけん A book of prepaid tickets or coupons for multiple uses of a service. |
| 改正 かいせい Formal revision or amendment of laws, rules, or systems | かいせい Formal revision or amendment of laws, rules, or systems |
| 快晴 かいせい Clear, cloudless weather | かいせい Clear, cloudless weather |
| 解説 かいせつ Expert commentary, analysis, or detailed explanation. | かいせつ Expert commentary, analysis, or detailed explanation. |
| 改善 かいぜん Improvement of a system, process, or condition. | かいぜん Improvement of a system, process, or condition. |
| 会長 かいちょう Board chairman or president of a society | かいちょう Board chairman or president of a society |
| 開通 かいつう Opening of a road, railway, or service to traffic. | かいつう Opening of a road, railway, or service to traffic. |
| 快適 かいてき Pleasant, comfortable, or agreeable (regarding an environment or state) | かいてき Pleasant, comfortable, or agreeable (regarding an environment or state) |
| 回転 かいてん Rotation, spinning, business turnover, or mental processing speed. | かいてん Rotation, spinning, business turnover, or mental processing speed. |
| 開店 かいてん Opening a shop for the first time or for the day. | かいてん Opening a shop for the first time or for the day. |
| 回答 かいとう Formal reply or response to an inquiry or question | かいとう Formal reply or response to an inquiry or question |
| 買い得 かいどく A bargain or good buy. | かいどく A bargain or good buy. |
| 飼い主 かいぬし Pet owner or animal keeper | かいぬし Pet owner or animal keeper |
| 開発 かいはつ Development, referring to creating new technology and products or exploiting land and resources. | かいはつ Development, referring to creating new technology and products or exploiting land and resources. |
| 会費 かいひ Membership fees or dues. | かいひ Membership fees or dues. |
| 回復 かいふく Recovery from illness or restoration to a normal state. | かいふく Recovery from illness or restoration to a normal state. |
| 怪物 かいぶつ A frightening monster or creature, or metaphorically, a person with superhuman talent. | かいぶつ A frightening monster or creature, or metaphorically, a person with superhuman talent. |
| 開閉 かいへい Opening and closing (formal/technical) | かいへい Opening and closing (formal/technical) |
| 開放 かいほう Opening wide physically or making a facility accessible to the public. | かいほう Opening wide physically or making a facility accessible to the public. |
| 改良 かいりょう Improvement or upgrade of a physical object or system. | かいりょう Improvement or upgrade of a physical object or system. |
| 会話 かいわ Conversation, talk, or dialogue. | かいわ Conversation, talk, or dialogue. |
| 帰す かえす To send someone back or allow them to return home | かえす To send someone back or allow them to return home |
| 却って
(かえって)
かえって On the contrary; rather; indicates a result opposite to expectation | かえって On the contrary; rather; indicates a result opposite to expectation |
| 替える かえる To replace, exchange, or substitute one thing for another. | かえる To replace, exchange, or substitute one thing for another. |
| 返る かえる To be returned to an original owner, place, or state. | かえる To be returned to an original owner, place, or state. |
| 顔色 かおいろ Facial complexion indicating health or expression revealing mood | かおいろ Facial complexion indicating health or expression revealing mood |
| 香り かおり A pleasant fragrance, aroma, or scent. | かおり A pleasant fragrance, aroma, or scent. |
| 顔を出す かおをだす To make a brief appearance or drop by; to physically poke one’s head out. | かおをだす To make a brief appearance or drop by; to physically poke one’s head out. |
| 価格 かかく Formal term for a price, cost, or value used in official contexts | かかく Formal term for a price, cost, or value used in official contexts |
| 欠かす かかす To miss, lack, or dispense with (almost always used in the negative) | かかす To miss, lack, or dispense with (almost always used in the negative) |
| 係 かかり Person in charge of a specific duty or role | かかり Person in charge of a specific duty or role |
| 係員 かかりいん Attendant, official, or person in charge | かかりいん Attendant, official, or person in charge |
| 化学 かがく, ばけがく Chemistry; the science of substances and their interactions. | かがく, ばけがく Chemistry; the science of substances and their interactions. |
| 輝き かがやき Radiance, brilliance, or bright shine. | かがやき Radiance, brilliance, or bright shine. |
| 輝く かがやく To shine, sparkle, or be radiant. | かがやく To shine, sparkle, or be radiant. |
| 下記 かき The following or mentioned below | かき The following or mentioned below |
| 書き上げる かきあげる To finish writing completely; to write up | かきあげる To finish writing completely; to write up |
| 書き込む かきこむ To fill out forms, post comments online, or write data to storage. | かきこむ To fill out forms, post comments online, or write data to storage. |
| 書留 かきとめ Registered mail service providing proof of delivery | かきとめ Registered mail service providing proof of delivery |
| 書き取り かきとり Dictation or transcription practice | かきとり Dictation or transcription practice |
| 書き取る かきとる To write down, transcribe, or take dictation. | かきとる To write down, transcribe, or take dictation. |
| 限り かぎり Limit, boundary, or extent; defines scope, conditions, or exclusivity. | かぎり Limit, boundary, or extent; defines scope, conditions, or exclusivity. |
| 各 かく Prefix indicating each, every, or respective items. | かく Prefix indicating each, every, or respective items. |
| 掻く
(かく)
かく To scratch, rake, or shovel; also the verb used for sweating. | かく To scratch, rake, or shovel; also the verb used for sweating. |
| 各種 かくしゅ Various kinds; all sorts | かくしゅ Various kinds; all sorts |
| 各自 かくじ Each person; respective individuals acting on their own. | かくじ Each person; respective individuals acting on their own. |
| 確実 かくじつ Certain, definite, reliable, or guaranteed without doubt. | かくじつ Certain, definite, reliable, or guaranteed without doubt. |
| 拡大 かくだい Enlargement, magnification, or expansion | かくだい Enlargement, magnification, or expansion |
| 各地 かくち Various places; various regions; all over. | かくち Various places; various regions; all over. |
| 角度 かくど Geometric angle or figurative perspective | かくど Geometric angle or figurative perspective |
| 確認 かくにん Confirmation, verification, or checking | かくにん Confirmation, verification, or checking |
| 革命 かくめい Political revolution or radical innovation | かくめい Political revolution or radical innovation |
| 隠れる かくれる To hide oneself, disappear from view, or be concealed. | かくれる To hide oneself, disappear from view, or be concealed. |
| 掛け かけ Half-finished action, buying on credit, a hanger, or plain noodles | かけ Half-finished action, buying on credit, a hanger, or plain noodles |
| 掛け算 かけざん Multiplication | かけざん Multiplication |
| 欠ける かける To lack, be missing, or be chipped | かける To lack, be missing, or be chipped |
| 賭ける かける To bet, wager, or stake something valuable on an outcome. | かける To bet, wager, or stake something valuable on an outcome. |
| 影 かげ A shadow, silhouette, reflection, or trace. | かげ A shadow, silhouette, reflection, or trace. |
| 加減 かげん Degree, condition, or adjustment | かげん Degree, condition, or adjustment |
| 過去 かこ The past, referring to time gone by, history, or personal background. | かこ The past, referring to time gone by, history, or personal background. |
| 下降 かこう Physical descent or a decline in value, level, or quality | かこう Physical descent or a decline in value, level, or quality |
| 囲む かこむ To physically surround, encircle, or enclose something. | かこむ To physically surround, encircle, or enclose something. |
| 火災 かさい Formal term for a destructive fire or conflagration | かさい Formal term for a destructive fire or conflagration |
| 重なる かさなる To be piled up, occur in succession, or overlap. | かさなる To be piled up, occur in succession, or overlap. |
| 重ねる かさねる To stack, layer, or repeat | かさねる To stack, layer, or repeat |
| 火山 かざん Volcano; literally ‘fire mountain’. | かざん Volcano; literally ‘fire mountain’. |
| 貸し かし Lending, renting, or a debt owed for a favor. | かし Lending, renting, or a debt owed for a favor. |
| 賢い かしこい Wise, clever, or well-behaved regarding children or pets | かしこい Wise, clever, or well-behaved regarding children or pets |
| 箇所 かしょ Specific point, part, or passage; counter for places | かしょ Specific point, part, or passage; counter for places |
| かしら かしら Feminine particle expressing uncertainty or ‘I wonder’. | かしら Feminine particle expressing uncertainty or ‘I wonder’. |
| 家事 かじ Housework or domestic chores. | かじ Housework or domestic chores. |
| 果実 かじつ Formal term for fruit or the metaphorical results of hard work | かじつ Formal term for fruit or the metaphorical results of hard work |
| 数々 かずかず Numerous; a great variety of distinct things. | かずかず Numerous; a great variety of distinct things. |
| 稼ぎ かせぎ Earnings or income derived from work | かせぎ Earnings or income derived from work |
| 稼ぐ かせぐ To earn money, buy time, or score points. | かせぐ To earn money, buy time, or score points. |
| 加速 かそく acceleration; speeding up | かそく acceleration; speeding up |
| 型 かた, がた A specific type, model, physical mold, or standardized form. | かた, がた A specific type, model, physical mold, or standardized form. |
| 硬い かたい Physically hard or solid; metaphorically rigid, stiff, or stubborn. | かたい Physically hard or solid; metaphorically rigid, stiff, or stubborn. |
| 方々 かたがた, ほうぼう Polite plural term for people; also means here and there or various places. | かたがた, ほうぼう Polite plural term for people; also means here and there or various places. |
| 片側 かたがわ One side of two distinct sides, such as of a street or the body. | かたがわ One side of two distinct sides, such as of a street or the body. |
| 肩こり かたこり Stiff shoulders or neck tension | かたこり Stiff shoulders or neck tension |
| 片方 かたほう One side or one of a pair | かたほう One side or one of a pair |
| 固まる かたまる To harden, solidify, cluster together, or become fixed. | かたまる To harden, solidify, cluster together, or become fixed. |
| 片道 かたみち One-way trip | かたみち One-way trip |
| 固め かため Hardening, strengthening, or firm texture | かため Hardening, strengthening, or firm texture |
| 固める かためる To harden, consolidate, or strengthen. | かためる To harden, consolidate, or strengthen. |
| 語り かたり Storytelling; narration | かたり Storytelling; narration |
| 語る かたる To narrate, tell a story, or speak about something in detail. | かたる To narrate, tell a story, or speak about something in detail. |
| 課題 かだい An assigned task, homework, or challenge requiring resolution. | かだい An assigned task, homework, or challenge requiring resolution. |
| 価値 かち Value or worth | かち Value or worth |
| 課長 かちょう Section manager; a middle-management corporate title. | かちょう Section manager; a middle-management corporate title. |
| 格好 かっこう, かっこ Appearance, outfit, suitability, or pretense | かっこう, かっこ Appearance, outfit, suitability, or pretense |
| 各国 かっこく each country; various nations | かっこく each country; various nations |
| 勝手 かって Acting as one pleases without permission, or the convenience and workings of a situation. | かって Acting as one pleases without permission, or the convenience and workings of a situation. |
| 活動 かつどう Activity, action, or operation. | かつどう Activity, action, or operation. |
| 活躍 かつやく Playing an active part; flourishing. | かつやく Playing an active part; flourishing. |
| 活用 かつよう Practical application of a resource, or grammatical conjugation. | かつよう Practical application of a resource, or grammatical conjugation. |
| 家庭 かてい Home life or household, emphasizing the domestic environment rather than the physical building. | かてい Home life or household, emphasizing the domestic environment rather than the physical building. |
| 過程 かてい Process; the sequence of steps or stages leading to a result. | かてい Process; the sequence of steps or stages leading to a result. |
| 叶う かなう To come true, be fulfilled, or measure up to | かなう To come true, be fulfilled, or measure up to |
| 叶える かなえる to grant a wish, fulfill a dream, or meet a requirement | かなえる to grant a wish, fulfill a dream, or meet a requirement |
| 悲しみ かなしみ Sadness, sorrow, or grief. | かなしみ Sadness, sorrow, or grief. |
| 悲しむ かなしむ To feel sad, grieve, or mourn. | かなしむ To feel sad, grieve, or mourn. |
| 必ずしも かならずしも Not necessarily or not always; used with negative forms to indicate something is not entirely true. | かならずしも Not necessarily or not always; used with negative forms to indicate something is not entirely true. |
| 可也
(かなり)
かなり Quite, considerably, or fairly; implies a degree higher than expected. | かなり Quite, considerably, or fairly; implies a degree higher than expected. |
| かね かね Sentence-ending particle expressing skepticism, doubt, or rhetorical wonder | かね Sentence-ending particle expressing skepticism, doubt, or rhetorical wonder |
| 鐘 かね Large bell or temple bell | かね Large bell or temple bell |
| 加熱 かねつ Heating; the application of heat (formal/technical context). | かねつ Heating; the application of heat (formal/technical context). |
| 金儲け かねもうけ Moneymaking or profit-seeking, often implying greed. | かねもうけ Moneymaking or profit-seeking, often implying greed. |
| 金持ち かねもち A rich person or wealthy individual. | かねもち A rich person or wealthy individual. |
| 可能 かのう Possible or feasible, typically used in formal contexts. | かのう Possible or feasible, typically used in formal contexts. |
| 可能性 かのうせい Possibility; potential; likelihood | かのうせい Possibility; potential; likelihood |
| カビ かび Mold or mildew | かび Mold or mildew |
| 花瓶 かびん flower vase | かびん flower vase |
| 株 かぶ A corporate stock or share, a plant stump, or one’s social reputation. | かぶ A corporate stock or share, a plant stump, or one’s social reputation. |
| 株式会社 かぶしきがいしゃ A public stock company or corporation | かぶしきがいしゃ A public stock company or corporation |
| 被せる かぶせる To cover, put on top, talk over, or shift blame. | かぶせる To cover, put on top, talk over, or shift blame. |
| 南瓜
(かぼちゃ)
かぼちゃ Pumpkin or squash, specifically the sweet, green-skinned winter variety | かぼちゃ Pumpkin or squash, specifically the sweet, green-skinned winter variety |
| 構う かまう To mind, care about, or pay attention to. | かまう To mind, care about, or pay attention to. |
| 神 かみ God, deity, or divine spirit; also slang for something amazing or god-tier. | かみ God, deity, or divine spirit; also slang for something amazing or god-tier. |
| 髪型 かみがた Hairstyle or hairdo | かみがた Hairstyle or hairdo |
| 雷 かみなり, らい Thunder and lightning; a severe scolding. | かみなり, らい Thunder and lightning; a severe scolding. |
| 噛む かむ To bite or chew; to mesh or engage (like gears); to stumble over one’s words. | かむ To bite or chew; to mesh or engage (like gears); to stumble over one’s words. |
| 擤む
(かむ)
かむ To blow one’s nose | かむ To blow one’s nose |
| 科目 かもく School subject or a formal category for classification | かもく School subject or a formal category for classification |
| 貨物 かもつ Commercial cargo or freight. | かもつ Commercial cargo or freight. |
| 辛い からい, つらい Spicy or hot to the taste, or emotionally painful and tough. | からい, つらい Spicy or hot to the taste, or emotionally painful and tough. |
| 揶揄う
(からかう)
からかう To tease or make fun of someone playfully. | からかう To tease or make fun of someone playfully. |
| カラス からす Crow; raven | からす Crow; raven |
| 体つき からだつき Body build, figure, or physique | からだつき Body build, figure, or physique |
| からって からって Just because… (does not necessarily mean…) | からって Just because… (does not necessarily mean…) |
| 空っぽ からっぽ Completely empty, vacant, or hollow. | からっぽ Completely empty, vacant, or hollow. |
| 仮 かり Temporary, provisional, or hypothetical. | かり Temporary, provisional, or hypothetical. |
| 借り かり A debt, loan, or favor owed. | かり A debt, loan, or favor owed. |
| 仮に かりに Supposing; hypothetically; temporarily; for the time being | かりに Supposing; hypothetically; temporarily; for the time being |
| 可愛がる かわいがる To dote on, cherish, or treat with affection. | かわいがる To dote on, cherish, or treat with affection. |
| 可愛らしい かわいらしい Lovely, adorable, or sweet, typically implying an innocent or natural charm. | かわいらしい Lovely, adorable, or sweet, typically implying an innocent or natural charm. |
| 乾かす かわかす To dry something (transitive) | かわかす To dry something (transitive) |
| 渇き かわき Physical thirst or a strong figurative craving | かわき Physical thirst or a strong figurative craving |
| 乾く かわく To become dry or get thirsty. | かわく To become dry or get thirsty. |
| 渇く かわく To feel physical thirst or to deeply crave something. | かわく To feel physical thirst or to deeply crave something. |
| 代わり かわり A substitute, exchange, or second helping of food. | かわり A substitute, exchange, or second helping of food. |
| 変わり かわり A change, alteration, unusual event, or substitute. | かわり A change, alteration, unusual event, or substitute. |
| 替わる かわる To take the place of, be replaced, or be substituted. | かわる To take the place of, be replaced, or be substituted. |
| 勘 かん Intuition, hunch, or gut feeling. | かん Intuition, hunch, or gut feeling. |
| 管 かん, くだ Pipe, tube, or control/management. | かん, くだ Pipe, tube, or control/management. |
| 感覚 かんかく Physical sensation or intuitive sense. | かんかく Physical sensation or intuitive sense. |
| 考えてみれば かんがえてみれば Come to think of it; now that I think about it | かんがえてみれば Come to think of it; now that I think about it |
| 観客 かんきゃく Audience or spectators | かんきゃく Audience or spectators |
| 環境 かんきょう Environment, surroundings, or circumstances. | かんきょう Environment, surroundings, or circumstances. |
| 関係 かんけい Relation, connection, or involvement. | かんけい Relation, connection, or involvement. |
| 関係者 かんけいしゃ People involved, concerned parties, or authorized personnel. | かんけいしゃ People involved, concerned parties, or authorized personnel. |
| 歓迎 かんげい Warm welcome or reception. | かんげい Warm welcome or reception. |
| 看護 かんご Professional medical nursing or care for the sick. | かんご Professional medical nursing or care for the sick. |
| 看護師 かんごし The standard, gender-neutral term for a nurse. | かんごし The standard, gender-neutral term for a nurse. |
| 観察 かんさつ Observation; carefully watching to study or monitor. | かんさつ Observation; carefully watching to study or monitor. |
| 感謝 かんしゃ Deep gratitude or heartfelt appreciation. | かんしゃ Deep gratitude or heartfelt appreciation. |
| 関心 かんしん Serious interest or concern regarding a specific subject or issue | かんしん Serious interest or concern regarding a specific subject or issue |
| 感心 かんしん To be impressed by someone’s admirable conduct or effort, typically used by a superior to praise a subordinate. | かんしん To be impressed by someone’s admirable conduct or effort, typically used by a superior to praise a subordinate. |
| 感じ かんじ A feeling, sensation, impression, or vibe. | かんじ A feeling, sensation, impression, or vibe. |
| 患者 かんじゃ A patient receiving medical treatment. | かんじゃ A patient receiving medical treatment. |
| 感情 かんじょう Emotion; feeling. | かんじょう Emotion; feeling. |
| 勘定 かんじょう Calculation, a restaurant bill, or taking into account. | かんじょう Calculation, a restaurant bill, or taking into account. |
| 感情的 かんじょうてき Emotional, irrational, or driven by feelings rather than logic. | かんじょうてき Emotional, irrational, or driven by feelings rather than logic. |
| 感じる かんじる To feel, sense, or perceive physical sensations or emotions. | かんじる To feel, sense, or perceive physical sensations or emotions. |
| 関する かんする To concern; to be related to | かんする To concern; to be related to |
| 完成 かんせい completion; bringing a creation or project to its final form | かんせい completion; bringing a creation or project to its final form |
| 間接 かんせつ Indirect; involving an intermediate step or medium. | かんせつ Indirect; involving an intermediate step or medium. |
| 感染 かんせん Infection, contagion, or transmission of a disease or influence. | かんせん Infection, contagion, or transmission of a disease or influence. |
| 観戦 かんせん Watching a sports match or competitive game. | かんせん Watching a sports match or competitive game. |
| 完全 かんぜん Whole, finished, or absolute; having no missing parts. | かんぜん Whole, finished, or absolute; having no missing parts. |
| 感想 かんそう Impressions, thoughts, or reactions after an experience | かんそう Impressions, thoughts, or reactions after an experience |
| 勘違い かんちがい Mistaken assumption or misunderstanding | かんちがい Mistaken assumption or misunderstanding |
| 缶詰 かんづめ Canned food, or being cooped up indoors to work. | かんづめ Canned food, or being cooped up indoors to work. |
| 感動 かんどう Being deeply moved, touched, or impressed. | かんどう Being deeply moved, touched, or impressed. |
| 館内 かんない Inside the building or within the facility premises. | かんない Inside the building or within the facility premises. |
| 完璧 かんぺき Perfect or flawless; completely without defects or mistakes. | かんぺき Perfect or flawless; completely without defects or mistakes. |
| 管理 かんり Management, administration, or control. | かんり Management, administration, or control. |
| 完了 かんりょう Formal completion or conclusion of a task or process. | かんりょう Formal completion or conclusion of a task or process. |
| カチカチ カチカチ Sharp clicking sound; physically hard, frozen, or stiff; nervous or stubborn. | カチカチ Sharp clicking sound; physically hard, frozen, or stiff; nervous or stubborn. |
| カンニング カンニング Cheating on a test or exam | カンニング Cheating on a test or exam |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 機 き Machine, aircraft, or opportunity. | き Machine, aircraft, or opportunity. |
| 記憶 きおく Memory, recollection, or electronic storage. | きおく Memory, recollection, or electronic storage. |
| 機会 きかい Chance or opportunity | きかい Chance or opportunity |
| 期間 きかん A period, term, or duration. | きかん A period, term, or duration. |
| 機関 きかん Official institution, agency, or mechanical engine | きかん Official institution, agency, or mechanical engine |
| 気軽 きがる casual; without hesitation or pressure | きがる casual; without hesitation or pressure |
| 聞き手 ききて Listener, audience, or interviewer. | ききて Listener, audience, or interviewer. |
| 聞き取り ききとり Listening comprehension or information gathering | ききとり Listening comprehension or information gathering |
| 木々 きぎ Trees; a collective group of trees. | きぎ Trees; a collective group of trees. |
| 企業 きぎょう A formal term for an enterprise or corporation. | きぎょう A formal term for an enterprise or corporation. |
| 効く きく To be effective, take effect, or work as intended. | きく To be effective, take effect, or work as intended. |
| 器具 きぐ Specialized equipment, apparatus, or appliances. | きぐ Specialized equipment, apparatus, or appliances. |
| 期限 きげん A deadline, due date, or expiration time limit. | きげん A deadline, due date, or expiration time limit. |
| 機嫌 きげん Current mood, temper, or spirits | きげん Current mood, temper, or spirits |
| 紀元前 きげんぜん B.C. or B.C.E. | きげんぜん B.C. or B.C.E. |
| 気候 きこう Climate or long-term typical weather conditions of a region. | きこう Climate or long-term typical weather conditions of a region. |
| 記号 きごう Symbol, mark, or sign. | きごう Symbol, mark, or sign. |
| 刻み きざみ Minced pieces, notches, or fixed intervals/increments. | きざみ Minced pieces, notches, or fixed intervals/increments. |
| 記者 きしゃ Reporter or journalist | きしゃ Reporter or journalist |
| 起床 きしょう Rising or getting out of bed (formal context) | きしょう Rising or getting out of bed (formal context) |
| 記事 きじ Article or news story | きじ Article or news story |
| 傷 きず A physical wound, scratch, defect, or emotional scar. | きず A physical wound, scratch, defect, or emotional scar. |
| 傷つく きずつく To get injured, have feelings hurt, or become damaged. | きずつく To get injured, have feelings hurt, or become damaged. |
| 傷つける きずつける To injure physically, hurt feelings, or damage an object. | きずつける To injure physically, hurt feelings, or damage an object. |
| 奇跡 きせき Miracle | きせき Miracle |
| 気絶 きぜつ Fainting; to pass out. | きぜつ Fainting; to pass out. |
| 基礎 きそ Foundation, base, or fundamentals | きそ Foundation, base, or fundamentals |
| 競う きそう To compete or contend for a prize, rank, or superiority. | きそう To compete or contend for a prize, rank, or superiority. |
| 規則 きそく Official regulations, rules, or systematic regularity. | きそく Official regulations, rules, or systematic regularity. |
| 期待 きたい Expectation, anticipation, or hope for a positive outcome. | きたい Expectation, anticipation, or hope for a positive outcome. |
| 気体 きたい Scientific term for gas as a state of matter. | きたい Scientific term for gas as a state of matter. |
| 帰宅 きたく returning home; going home | きたく returning home; going home |
| 北国 きたぐに, ほっこく Northern regions or provinces, typically characterized by cold winters and snow. | きたぐに, ほっこく Northern regions or provinces, typically characterized by cold winters and snow. |
| きちっと きちっと Properly, neatly, or fitting exactly. | きちっと Properly, neatly, or fitting exactly. |
| 貴重 きちょう Precious or highly valued due to rarity or importance. | きちょう Precious or highly valued due to rarity or importance. |
| 貴重品 きちょうひん Valuables; expensive or important personal items like wallets and passports. | きちょうひん Valuables; expensive or important personal items like wallets and passports. |
| きちんと きちんと Properly, neatly, or accurately. | きちんと Properly, neatly, or accurately. |
| 切っ掛け
(きっかけ)
きっかけ Initial trigger, opportunity, or catalyst. | きっかけ Initial trigger, opportunity, or catalyst. |
| 喫茶 きっさ A traditional tea room or coffee shop, or the formal act of drinking tea. | きっさ A traditional tea room or coffee shop, or the formal act of drinking tea. |
| きつい きつい Uncomfortably tight, tough, or harsh. | きつい Uncomfortably tight, tough, or harsh. |
| 喫煙 きつえん Formal term for smoking, often seen on signs. | きつえん Formal term for smoking, often seen on signs. |
| 狐 きつね The fox animal, a cunning person, noodles topped with deep-fried tofu, or a golden-brown color. | きつね The fox animal, a cunning person, noodles topped with deep-fried tofu, or a golden-brown color. |
| 気づく きづく To notice, realize, or regain consciousness | きづく To notice, realize, or regain consciousness |
| 機内 きない The interior of an airplane; in-flight. | きない The interior of an airplane; in-flight. |
| 気に入る きにいる To take a liking to something or be pleased with it. | きにいる To take a liking to something or be pleased with it. |
| 記入 きにゅう Filling in forms or entering information | きにゅう Filling in forms or entering information |
| 記念 きねん Commemoration of a special event or a physical memento. | きねん Commemoration of a special event or a physical memento. |
| 記念日 きねんび Anniversary or memorial day. | きねんび Anniversary or memorial day. |
| 機能 きのう A specific function, feature, or capability of a system or device. | きのう A specific function, feature, or capability of a system or device. |
| 気のせい きのせい Just imagination or a trick of the mind. | きのせい Just imagination or a trick of the mind. |
| 気の毒 きのどく Pity, sympathy, or feeling sorry for someone’s misfortune. | きのどく Pity, sympathy, or feeling sorry for someone’s misfortune. |
| 厳しい きびしい Strict, tough, or severe standards, situations, or conditions. | きびしい Strict, tough, or severe standards, situations, or conditions. |
| 寄付 きふ Donating money or goods to a public cause or charity. | きふ Donating money or goods to a public cause or charity. |
| 気分 きぶん Physical feeling or emotional mood | きぶん Physical feeling or emotional mood |
| 基本 きほん Essential foundation, basics, or fundamental principles. | きほん Essential foundation, basics, or fundamental principles. |
| 基本的 きほんてき Fundamental, basic, or generally speaking. | きほんてき Fundamental, basic, or generally speaking. |
| 希望 きぼう Hope, wish, aspiration, or preference. | きぼう Hope, wish, aspiration, or preference. |
| 決まり きまり A rule, regulation, settlement, or routine. | きまり A rule, regulation, settlement, or routine. |
| 奇妙 きみょう Strange or peculiar in a mysterious, puzzling, or inexplicable way. | きみょう Strange or peculiar in a mysterious, puzzling, or inexplicable way. |
| 客室 きゃくしつ Hotel guest room or passenger cabin | きゃくしつ Hotel guest room or passenger cabin |
| 客観 きゃっかん Objectivity; a viewpoint based on observable facts rather than personal emotions. | きゃっかん Objectivity; a viewpoint based on observable facts rather than personal emotions. |
| 客観的 きゃっかんてき Objective; based on facts rather than personal feelings or bias. | きゃっかんてき Objective; based on facts rather than personal feelings or bias. |
| 球 きゅう, たま A sphere, ball, or globe; used in technical compounds and baseball contexts. | きゅう, たま A sphere, ball, or globe; used in technical compounds and baseball contexts. |
| 級 きゅう Level, grade, or rank | きゅう Level, grade, or rank |
| 旧 きゅう former, ex-, or old-style (especially regarding the lunar calendar) | きゅう former, ex-, or old-style (especially regarding the lunar calendar) |
| 休暇 きゅうか Formal leave or approved time off from work or school duties. | きゅうか Formal leave or approved time off from work or school duties. |
| 休館 きゅうかん Temporary closure of a public facility like a library or museum | きゅうかん Temporary closure of a public facility like a library or museum |
| 救急 きゅうきゅう Emergency medical care or first aid. | きゅうきゅう Emergency medical care or first aid. |
| 球技 きゅうぎ Ball sport or ball game | きゅうぎ Ball sport or ball game |
| 休業 きゅうぎょう Temporary suspension of business or operations. | きゅうぎょう Temporary suspension of business or operations. |
| 休憩 きゅうけい A short break, rest, or pause taken during an activity. | きゅうけい A short break, rest, or pause taken during an activity. |
| 吸収 きゅうしゅう To absorb or assimilate liquids, knowledge, or entities. | きゅうしゅう To absorb or assimilate liquids, knowledge, or entities. |
| 給食 きゅうしょく School lunch or institutionally provided meal. | きゅうしょく School lunch or institutionally provided meal. |
| 休日 きゅうじつ A general day off from work or school, including weekends and public holidays. | きゅうじつ A general day off from work or school, including weekends and public holidays. |
| 救助 きゅうじょ Rescue or relief from serious danger, accidents, or disasters. | きゅうじょ Rescue or relief from serious danger, accidents, or disasters. |
| 給水 きゅうすい Supplying or refilling with water | きゅうすい Supplying or refilling with water |
| 急速 きゅうそく Rapid, fast-paced change or development | きゅうそく Rapid, fast-paced change or development |
| 休息 きゅうそく Rest, repose, or a break taken to recover energy | きゅうそく Rest, repose, or a break taken to recover energy |
| 急病 きゅうびょう Sudden illness | きゅうびょう Sudden illness |
| 給油 きゅうゆ Refueling a vehicle or lubricating machinery. | きゅうゆ Refueling a vehicle or lubricating machinery. |
| 急用 きゅうよう Urgent business or sudden matter. | きゅうよう Urgent business or sudden matter. |
| 休養 きゅうよう Rest and recuperation to recover from fatigue or illness. | きゅうよう Rest and recuperation to recover from fatigue or illness. |
| 教育 きょういく Education, training, or upbringing. | きょういく Education, training, or upbringing. |
| 強化 きょうか Strengthening, reinforcement, or enhancement. | きょうか Strengthening, reinforcement, or enhancement. |
| 教科 きょうか School subject | きょうか School subject |
| 協会 きょうかい Association, society, or organization. | きょうかい Association, society, or organization. |
| 供給 きょうきゅう Supply; the provision of goods or resources to meet demand. | きょうきゅう Supply; the provision of goods or resources to meet demand. |
| 競技 きょうぎ Competition, contest, or organized sporting event. | きょうぎ Competition, contest, or organized sporting event. |
| 教師 きょうし Teacher as a profession or job title, not used as a form of address. | きょうし Teacher as a profession or job title, not used as a form of address. |
| 教授 きょうじゅ University professor; formal instruction. | きょうじゅ University professor; formal instruction. |
| 競争 きょうそう Competition or rivalry; a struggle for superiority. | きょうそう Competition or rivalry; a struggle for superiority. |
| 競走 きょうそう A race or competition involving speed. | きょうそう A race or competition involving speed. |
| 強調 きょうちょう Emphasis or stress placed on a specific point or feature. | きょうちょう Emphasis or stress placed on a specific point or feature. |
| 共通 きょうつう Shared or common to multiple people, things, or groups. | きょうつう Shared or common to multiple people, things, or groups. |
| 共同 きょうどう Doing or using something together; joint, shared, or communal. | きょうどう Doing or using something together; joint, shared, or communal. |
| 恐怖 きょうふ Intense fear, dread, or terror. | きょうふ Intense fear, dread, or terror. |
| 興味 きょうみ Personal interest or curiosity | きょうみ Personal interest or curiosity |
| 協力 きょうりょく Cooperation or collaboration toward a shared goal | きょうりょく Cooperation or collaboration toward a shared goal |
| 許可 きょか Official permission or approval from an authority | きょか Official permission or approval from an authority |
| 局 きょく An office, bureau, situation, or counter for board games. | きょく An office, bureau, situation, or counter for board games. |
| 曲 きょく Musical composition, piece, or track | きょく Musical composition, piece, or track |
| 曲線 きょくせん A curve or curved line. | きょくせん A curve or curved line. |
| 極端 きょくたん Extreme, unreasonable, or lacking moderation. | きょくたん Extreme, unreasonable, or lacking moderation. |
| 巨大 きょだい Gigantic, enormous, or huge. | きょだい Gigantic, enormous, or huge. |
| 距離 きょり Physical distance or emotional gap between two points. | きょり Physical distance or emotional gap between two points. |
| 器用 きよう Skillful, handy, or nimble, particularly with one’s hands. | きよう Skillful, handy, or nimble, particularly with one’s hands. |
| 嫌う きらう To hate, dislike, or actively avoid. | きらう To hate, dislike, or actively avoid. |
| 気楽 きらく Carefree, easygoing, and mentally at ease. | きらく Carefree, easygoing, and mentally at ease. |
| 切り きり A cut-off point, limit, or stopping place; indicates ‘only’ or ‘ever since’ a past event | きり A cut-off point, limit, or stopping place; indicates ‘only’ or ‘ever since’ a past event |
| 霧 きり Fog, mist, or a fine liquid spray | きり Fog, mist, or a fine liquid spray |
| 気力 きりょく Willpower, motivation, or mental energy. | きりょく Willpower, motivation, or mental energy. |
| 切れ きれ A physical slice or scrap, or the sharpness and crispness of a blade or action. | きれ A physical slice or scrap, or the sharpness and crispness of a blade or action. |
| 記録 きろく A record, document, or achievement preserved for future reference. | きろく A record, document, or achievement preserved for future reference. |
| 極めて きわめて Extremely or exceedingly; a formal adverb typically reserved for writing or official contexts. | きわめて Extremely or exceedingly; a formal adverb typically reserved for writing or official contexts. |
| 金額 きんがく A specific sum or amount of money. | きんがく A specific sum or amount of money. |
| 緊急 きんきゅう Emergency or urgent situation requiring immediate action. | きんきゅう Emergency or urgent situation requiring immediate action. |
| 禁止 きんし A formal prohibition or ban, typically found on signs and in official rules. | きんし A formal prohibition or ban, typically found on signs and in official rules. |
| 金属 きんぞく The general term for metal as a material, such as iron, gold, or aluminum. | きんぞく The general term for metal as a material, such as iron, gold, or aluminum. |
| 近代 きんだい The modern era (roughly 19th to mid-20th century) | きんだい The modern era (roughly 19th to mid-20th century) |
| 近代的 きんだいてき Modern (in a historical sense) | きんだいてき Modern (in a historical sense) |
| 緊張 きんちょう Mental nervousness, anxiety, or strained tension between groups. | きんちょう Mental nervousness, anxiety, or strained tension between groups. |
| 筋肉 きんにく Muscle; the physical tissue responsible for movement and strength | きんにく Muscle; the physical tissue responsible for movement and strength |
| 近年 きんねん In recent years; the last few years | きんねん In recent years; the last few years |
| キャッチ キャッチ Catching, street touting, or call waiting | キャッチ Catching, street touting, or call waiting |
| キョロキョロ キョロキョロ Looking around restlessly with darting eyes | キョロキョロ Looking around restlessly with darting eyes |
| キラキラ キラキラ Sparkling, glittering, or twinkling. | キラキラ Sparkling, glittering, or twinkling. |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 区 く City ward, administrative district, or designated zone. | く City ward, administrative district, or designated zone. |
| 食う くう To eat roughly, make a living, or consume resources like time and space. | くう To eat roughly, make a living, or consume resources like time and space. |
| 空間 くうかん Space, empty area, or conceptual zone. | くうかん Space, empty area, or conceptual zone. |
| 空車 くうしゃ, からぐるま Available taxi or parking; empty vehicle | くうしゃ, からぐるま Available taxi or parking; empty vehicle |
| 空席 くうせき An unoccupied seat or vacant position | くうせき An unoccupied seat or vacant position |
| 空腹 くうふく Hunger or the state of having an empty stomach, typically used in formal or written contexts. | くうふく Hunger or the state of having an empty stomach, typically used in formal or written contexts. |
| 草木 くさき, そうもく Plants and trees; vegetation. | くさき, そうもく Plants and trees; vegetation. |
| 腐る くさる To rot, spoil, become corrupt, or lose motivation | くさる To rot, spoil, become corrupt, or lose motivation |
| 嚏
(くしゃみ)
くしゃみ Sneeze | くしゃみ Sneeze |
| 籤
(くじ)
くじ A lottery, raffle, or drawing of lots. | くじ A lottery, raffle, or drawing of lots. |
| 崩す くずす To break down a physical form, disrupt a stable condition, or break a large bill. | くずす To break down a physical form, disrupt a stable condition, or break a large bill. |
| 癖 くせ A personal habit, quirk, or physical kink. | くせ A personal habit, quirk, or physical kink. |
| 癖に
(くせに)
くせに Even though, despite the fact that; expresses blame or criticism | くせに Even though, despite the fact that; expresses blame or criticism |
| くたくた くたくた Exhausted, worn out and limp, or cooked until mushy. | くたくた Exhausted, worn out and limp, or cooked until mushy. |
| 草臥れる
(くたびれる)
くたびれる To be physically drained or exhausted, or for objects to become worn out and shabby. | くたびれる To be physically drained or exhausted, or for objects to become worn out and shabby. |
| 下らない
(くだらない)
くだらない Worthless, trivial, or pointless | くだらない Worthless, trivial, or pointless |
| 下り くだり A downhill slope, or an outbound route heading away from a central city like Tokyo. | くだり A downhill slope, or an outbound route heading away from a central city like Tokyo. |
| 下る くだる To go down, descend, be issued, or drop below a limit | くだる To go down, descend, be issued, or drop below a limit |
| 唇 くちびる The lips. | くちびる The lips. |
| 口笛 くちぶえ Whistling with the lips | くちぶえ Whistling with the lips |
| くっ付く くっつく To stick to, adhere, cling, or become a couple. | くっつく To stick to, adhere, cling, or become a couple. |
| くっ付ける くっつける To attach, stick together, or bring into close contact. | くっつける To attach, stick together, or bring into close contact. |
| 苦痛 くつう Severe physical pain or deep mental anguish. | くつう Severe physical pain or deep mental anguish. |
| 配る くばる To distribute or hand out items; to direct one’s attention or care. | くばる To distribute or hand out items; to direct one’s attention or care. |
| 工夫 くふう Ingenuity or devising a clever scheme to solve a problem or make improvements. | くふう Ingenuity or devising a clever scheme to solve a problem or make improvements. |
| 区別 くべつ distinction; differentiation; telling things apart | くべつ distinction; differentiation; telling things apart |
| 組合 くみあい Association, union, or cooperative. | くみあい Association, union, or cooperative. |
| 組み合わせる くみあわせる To assemble parts together or pair up opponents. | くみあわせる To assemble parts together or pair up opponents. |
| 組み立て くみたて Physical assembly or abstract structural organization. | くみたて Physical assembly or abstract structural organization. |
| 組み立てる くみたてる To assemble physical parts or formulate a plan. | くみたてる To assemble physical parts or formulate a plan. |
| 組む くむ To assemble, team up, or cross one’s limbs. | くむ To assemble, team up, or cross one’s limbs. |
| 区役所 くやくしょ Ward office; local government administration center for a specific city ward. | くやくしょ Ward office; local government administration center for a specific city ward. |
| 悔しい くやしい Frustrating, vexing, or bitterly disappointed | くやしい Frustrating, vexing, or bitterly disappointed |
| 位 くらい, い Approximation, degree, extent, or rank. | くらい, い Approximation, degree, extent, or rank. |
| 暮らし くらし Day-to-day life, lifestyle, or livelihood | くらし Day-to-day life, lifestyle, or livelihood |
| 暮らす くらす To live one’s daily life, make a living, or spend a period of time | くらす To live one’s daily life, make a living, or spend a period of time |
| 比べる くらべる To compare or measure items against each other to evaluate differences. | くらべる To compare or measure items against each other to evaluate differences. |
| 繰り返し くりかえし Repetition; doing something repeatedly. | くりかえし Repetition; doing something repeatedly. |
| 繰り返す くりかえす To repeat an action, event, or statement; to do something again. | くりかえす To repeat an action, event, or statement; to do something again. |
| 狂う くるう To go crazy, malfunction, go awry, or lose accuracy. | くるう To go crazy, malfunction, go awry, or lose accuracy. |
| くるくる くるくる Spinning round and round, coiling, or changing rapidly. | くるくる Spinning round and round, coiling, or changing rapidly. |
| 苦しみ くるしみ Deep suffering, anguish, or hardship | くるしみ Deep suffering, anguish, or hardship |
| 苦しむ くるしむ To suffer from physical pain, illness, or mental struggle. | くるしむ To suffer from physical pain, illness, or mental struggle. |
| 暮れ くれ Dusk, sunset, or the end of the year. | くれ Dusk, sunset, or the end of the year. |
| 呉れ呉れも
(くれぐれも)
くれぐれも Earnestly, repeatedly, or please be sure to. | くれぐれも Earnestly, repeatedly, or please be sure to. |
| 暮れる くれる To get dark, come to an end, or be overwhelmed. | くれる To get dark, come to an end, or be overwhelmed. |
| 苦労 くろう Hardship, trouble, or struggle involved in overcoming difficulties. | くろう Hardship, trouble, or struggle involved in overcoming difficulties. |
| 加える くわえる To add items or ingredients, include someone in a group, or apply force or influence. | くわえる To add items or ingredients, include someone in a group, or apply force or influence. |
| 詳しい くわしい Detailed in content or knowledgeable about a specific subject. | くわしい Detailed in content or knowledgeable about a specific subject. |
| 加わる くわわる To join a group, or to be added or applied. | くわわる To join a group, or to be added or applied. |
| 訓練 くんれん Structured training or drills for professional, military, or emergency preparedness. | くんれん Structured training or drills for professional, military, or emergency preparedness. |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 毛 け Fur, wool, or body hair | け Fur, wool, or body hair |
| 軽 けい Prefix meaning “light” or “minor,” or an abbreviation for the “Kei car” vehicle class. | けい Prefix meaning “light” or “minor,” or an abbreviation for the “Kei car” vehicle class. |
| 敬意 けいい Deep respect or honor | けいい Deep respect or honor |
| 経営 けいえい Management, administration, or running a business | けいえい Management, administration, or running a business |
| 経営者 けいえいしゃ Person who manages or operates a business, such as an executive or proprietor. | けいえいしゃ Person who manages or operates a business, such as an executive or proprietor. |
| 経過 けいか Passage of time or course of events. | けいか Passage of time or course of events. |
| 警官 けいかん Police officer | けいかん Police officer |
| 景気 けいき Economic conditions, business climate, or general liveliness. | けいき Economic conditions, business climate, or general liveliness. |
| 経験 けいけん Experience or knowledge gained through doing | けいけん Experience or knowledge gained through doing |
| 傾向 けいこう A general trend, tendency, or inclination. | けいこう A general trend, tendency, or inclination. |
| 蛍光灯 けいこうとう Fluorescent light or lamp. | けいこうとう Fluorescent light or lamp. |
| 敬語 けいご Honorific language system comprising respectful, humble, and polite forms | けいご Honorific language system comprising respectful, humble, and polite forms |
| 経済 けいざい Economy, economics, or financial situation. | けいざい Economy, economics, or financial situation. |
| 経済的 けいざいてき economic (financial) or economical (saving money/thrifty) | けいざいてき economic (financial) or economical (saving money/thrifty) |
| 継続 けいぞく Continuation; the act of maintaining an action, state, or agreement without interruption. | けいぞく Continuation; the act of maintaining an action, state, or agreement without interruption. |
| 携帯 けいたい The act of carrying something portable, or more commonly, a cell phone. | けいたい The act of carrying something portable, or more commonly, a cell phone. |
| 毛糸 けいと Wool yarn or knitting wool. | けいと Wool yarn or knitting wool. |
| 警備 けいび Guarding or security for a specific place, person, or event. | けいび Guarding or security for a specific place, person, or event. |
| 警報 けいほう Official warning or alarm signal | けいほう Official warning or alarm signal |
| 契約 けいやく A formal contract or binding agreement. | けいやく A formal contract or binding agreement. |
| 形容詞 けいようし i-adjective | けいようし i-adjective |
| 経歴 けいれき Personal history or career background | けいれき Personal history or career background |
| 化粧 けしょう, けわい Makeup, cosmetics, or a decorative finish applied to enhance appearance. | けしょう, けわい Makeup, cosmetics, or a decorative finish applied to enhance appearance. |
| 結果 けっか Result, outcome, or consequence. | けっか Result, outcome, or consequence. |
| 結局 けっきょく In the end; after all; ultimately. | けっきょく In the end; after all; ultimately. |
| 結婚 けっこん Marriage or to get married. | けっこん Marriage or to get married. |
| 傑作 けっさく Masterpiece or exceptional work; ironically, an absurd blunder or hilarious situation. | けっさく Masterpiece or exceptional work; ironically, an absurd blunder or hilarious situation. |
| 決して けっして Never; by no means; under no circumstances | けっして Never; by no means; under no circumstances |
| 決勝 けっしょう The final match or round of a competition | けっしょう The final match or round of a competition |
| 決心 けっしん firm resolution, determination, or making up one’s mind | けっしん firm resolution, determination, or making up one’s mind |
| 欠席 けっせき Absence or non-attendance at a scheduled event such as a class or meeting | けっせき Absence or non-attendance at a scheduled event such as a class or meeting |
| 決定 けってい A final decision, determination, or settlement. | けってい A final decision, determination, or settlement. |
| 欠点 けってん A flaw, defect, or shortcoming; a failing grade. | けってん A flaw, defect, or shortcoming; a failing grade. |
| 決意 けつい Firm resolution or determination to achieve a significant goal. | けつい Firm resolution or determination to achieve a significant goal. |
| 血液 けつえき Blood (formal or medical context) | けつえき Blood (formal or medical context) |
| 血液型 けつえきがた Blood type classification, often associated with personality traits. | けつえきがた Blood type classification, often associated with personality traits. |
| 結合 けつごう Combining or joining separate elements into a single unit. | けつごう Combining or joining separate elements into a single unit. |
| 決断 けつだん A firm, major decision. | けつだん A firm, major decision. |
| 結論 けつろん A conclusion or final decision reached through reasoning or discussion | けつろん A conclusion or final decision reached through reasoning or discussion |
| 煙 けむり Smoke or fumes produced by burning. | けむり Smoke or fumes produced by burning. |
| 蹴る ける To strike with the foot, push off a surface, or reject an offer. | ける To strike with the foot, push off a surface, or reject an offer. |
| 権 けん Right, power, or authority. | けん Right, power, or authority. |
| 喧嘩 けんか A verbal quarrel, argument, or physical fight. | けんか A verbal quarrel, argument, or physical fight. |
| 研究所 けんきゅうじょ, けんきゅうしょ Research institute or laboratory | けんきゅうじょ, けんきゅうしょ Research institute or laboratory |
| 健康診断 けんこうしんだん Routine physical examination or health checkup. | けんこうしんだん Routine physical examination or health checkup. |
| 検査 けんさ Formal inspection, examination, or test to verify condition or quality | けんさ Formal inspection, examination, or test to verify condition or quality |
| 検索 けんさく Looking up information via a tool like a search engine, database, or dictionary. | けんさく Looking up information via a tool like a search engine, database, or dictionary. |
| 建設 けんせつ Construction or establishment of large-scale structures or abstract systems. | けんせつ Construction or establishment of large-scale structures or abstract systems. |
| 建築 けんちく Architecture and the construction of buildings. | けんちく Architecture and the construction of buildings. |
| 検討 けんとう Formal consideration, examination, or review. | けんとう Formal consideration, examination, or review. |
| 見当 けんとう A rough estimate, guess, or sense of direction. | けんとう A rough estimate, guess, or sense of direction. |
| 見物 けんぶつ Sightseeing or watching an event. | けんぶつ Sightseeing or watching an event. |
| 憲法 けんぽう Constitution; the fundamental law of a nation. | けんぽう Constitution; the fundamental law of a nation. |
| 権利 けんり Right, privilege, or entitlement. | けんり Right, privilege, or entitlement. |
| 県立 けんりつ Prefectural; established by the prefecture. | けんりつ Prefectural; established by the prefecture. |
| 権力 けんりょく Political or institutional power and authority | けんりょく Political or institutional power and authority |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 恋 こい Passionate romantic love or a crush, characterized by longing and desire. | こい Passionate romantic love or a crush, characterized by longing and desire. |
| 恋しい こいしい Yearning for an absent person, place, or thing that is dear to you | こいしい Yearning for an absent person, place, or thing that is dear to you |
| 此奴
(こいつ)
こいつ Informal or rude term for ‘this guy’ or ‘this thing’ | こいつ Informal or rude term for ‘this guy’ or ‘this thing’ |
| 恋人 こいびと Lover, sweetheart, or romantic partner. | こいびと Lover, sweetheart, or romantic partner. |
| こう言う
(こういう)
こういう This kind of; like this | こういう This kind of; like this |
| 更衣室 こういしつ A room dedicated to changing clothes, such as a locker room. | こういしつ A room dedicated to changing clothes, such as a locker room. |
| こう言った
(こういった)
こういった This kind of; such; this sort of | こういった This kind of; such; this sort of |
| 幸運 こううん Good luck or good fortune. | こううん Good luck or good fortune. |
| 公演 こうえん Public performance, such as a play or concert. | こうえん Public performance, such as a play or concert. |
| 効果 こうか Effect, effectiveness, or result. | こうか Effect, effectiveness, or result. |
| 硬貨 こうか Metal coin | こうか Metal coin |
| 高価 こうか High price or expensive value, typically regarding material goods. | こうか High price or expensive value, typically regarding material goods. |
| 公開 こうかい Making something open to the public, such as releasing a movie or disclosing information. | こうかい Making something open to the public, such as releasing a movie or disclosing information. |
| 後悔 こうかい Regret, remorse, or repentance for past actions | こうかい Regret, remorse, or repentance for past actions |
| 航海 こうかい Sea voyage or ocean navigation | こうかい Sea voyage or ocean navigation |
| 交換 こうかん Exchange, swap, or replacement of one thing for another. | こうかん Exchange, swap, or replacement of one thing for another. |
| 後期 こうき The latter period or second half of a specific timeframe | こうき The latter period or second half of a specific timeframe |
| 好奇心 こうきしん Curiosity; the desire to know or learn. | こうきしん Curiosity; the desire to know or learn. |
| 高級 こうきゅう High class, luxury, or high rank | こうきゅう High class, luxury, or high rank |
| 公共 こうきょう Public, communal, or serving the community. | こうきょう Public, communal, or serving the community. |
| 講義 こうぎ Formal lecture, typically at a university. | こうぎ Formal lecture, typically at a university. |
| 抗議 こうぎ Formal protest or strong objection against an authority or decision. | こうぎ Formal protest or strong objection against an authority or decision. |
| 工業 こうぎょう The manufacturing industry | こうぎょう The manufacturing industry |
| 航空 こうくう Aviation or air travel, primarily used in compound words. | こうくう Aviation or air travel, primarily used in compound words. |
| 航空機 こうくうき Aircraft; a formal term for any flying vehicle. | こうくうき Aircraft; a formal term for any flying vehicle. |
| 航空券 こうくうけん The standard, formal term for an airline ticket. | こうくうけん The standard, formal term for an airline ticket. |
| 航空便 こうくうびん Airmail or air freight delivery. | こうくうびん Airmail or air freight delivery. |
| 攻撃 こうげき A physical attack, offensive action, or verbal assault. | こうげき A physical attack, offensive action, or verbal assault. |
| 広告 こうこく Advertisement or public notice | こうこく Advertisement or public notice |
| 交際 こうさい Dating or romantic relationship; formal association or socializing. | こうさい Dating or romantic relationship; formal association or socializing. |
| 口座 こうざ A financial account at a bank or post office. | こうざ A financial account at a bank or post office. |
| 講師 こうし Instructor, lecturer, or non-tenured teacher. | こうし Instructor, lecturer, or non-tenured teacher. |
| 公式 こうしき Official; mathematical formula. | こうしき Official; mathematical formula. |
| 後者 こうしゃ The latter; the second of two previously mentioned items. | こうしゃ The latter; the second of two previously mentioned items. |
| 校舎 こうしゃ The physical building of a school | こうしゃ The physical building of a school |
| 公衆 こうしゅう The general public, primarily used as a formal prefix for shared facilities. | こうしゅう The general public, primarily used as a formal prefix for shared facilities. |
| 更新 こうしん Update, renewal, or breaking a record. | こうしん Update, renewal, or breaking a record. |
| 工事 こうじ Construction work or repairs | こうじ Construction work or repairs |
| 向上 こうじょう Improvement or advancement in quality, skill, or status | こうじょう Improvement or advancement in quality, skill, or status |
| 降水 こうすい Formal term for precipitation like rain or snow | こうすい Formal term for precipitation like rain or snow |
| 洪水 こうずい A flood caused by heavy rain or overflowing rivers. | こうずい A flood caused by heavy rain or overflowing rivers. |
| 構成 こうせい The composition, structure, or makeup of a whole. | こうせい The composition, structure, or makeup of a whole. |
| 高速 こうそく High speed or express; also the common term for a highway. | こうそく High speed or express; also the common term for a highway. |
| 校則 こうそく Official rules and regulations of a school | こうそく Official rules and regulations of a school |
| 交代 こうたい Alternation, substitution, or changing shifts. | こうたい Alternation, substitution, or changing shifts. |
| 広大 こうだい Vast, immense, or grand in scale | こうだい Vast, immense, or grand in scale |
| 校長 こうちょう School principal or headmaster | こうちょう School principal or headmaster |
| 交通費 こうつうひ Transportation expenses or travel costs. | こうつうひ Transportation expenses or travel costs. |
| 行動 こうどう Action, conduct, or behavior. | こうどう Action, conduct, or behavior. |
| 講堂 こうどう Auditorium or lecture hall, typically found in an educational setting. | こうどう Auditorium or lecture hall, typically found in an educational setting. |
| 購入 こうにゅう Formal term for purchase or buying. | こうにゅう Formal term for purchase or buying. |
| 光熱費 こうねつひ Cost of electricity and gas utilities. | こうねつひ Cost of electricity and gas utilities. |
| 後輩 こうはい Junior member with less seniority at school, work, or in a club | こうはい Junior member with less seniority at school, work, or in a club |
| 後半 こうはん The second or latter half of a period, event, or work. | こうはん The second or latter half of a period, event, or work. |
| 公表 こうひょう Official announcement or release of information to the public | こうひょう Official announcement or release of information to the public |
| 好評 こうひょう Favorable reception, good reputation, or popularity. | こうひょう Favorable reception, good reputation, or popularity. |
| 幸福 こうふく Deep, lasting happiness, well-being, or blessedness | こうふく Deep, lasting happiness, well-being, or blessedness |
| 興奮 こうふん Excitement, agitation, or stimulation. | こうふん Excitement, agitation, or stimulation. |
| 公平 こうへい Fairness, impartiality, or lack of bias. | こうへい Fairness, impartiality, or lack of bias. |
| 後方 こうほう The rear or backward direction (formal) | こうほう The rear or backward direction (formal) |
| 公民 こうみん Citizen in a legal context, or the school subject of civics | こうみん Citizen in a legal context, or the school subject of civics |
| 公民館 こうみんかん Public community center for local social, educational, and cultural activities. | こうみんかん Public community center for local social, educational, and cultural activities. |
| 公務員 こうむいん A government employee or civil servant. | こうむいん A government employee or civil servant. |
| 項目 こうもく Item, category, or entry in a list or form | こうもく Item, category, or entry in a list or form |
| 紅葉 こうよう, もみじ Autumn foliage or Japanese maple | こうよう, もみじ Autumn foliage or Japanese maple |
| 行楽 こうらく A leisure outing or excursion to enjoy nature or seasonal scenery. | こうらく A leisure outing or excursion to enjoy nature or seasonal scenery. |
| 考慮 こうりょ Formal consideration or taking into account. | こうりょ Formal consideration or taking into account. |
| 越える こえる To cross over a physical barrier, pass a point in time, or exceed a limit. | こえる To cross over a physical barrier, pass a point in time, or exceed a limit. |
| 凍る こおる To freeze solid from cold or freeze up from fear | こおる To freeze solid from cold or freeze up from fear |
| 呼吸 こきゅう Physical breathing, the knack for timing, or interpersonal chemistry. | こきゅう Physical breathing, the knack for timing, or interpersonal chemistry. |
| 国王 こくおう The formal title for a king or monarch | こくおう The formal title for a king or monarch |
| 黒人 こくじん Black person; the standard term. | こくじん Black person; the standard term. |
| 国籍 こくせき Nationality or citizenship | こくせき Nationality or citizenship |
| 国土 こくど The physical territory or national land of a country. | こくど The physical territory or national land of a country. |
| 国内 こくない Domestic or within the country | こくない Domestic or within the country |
| 告白 こくはく Confessing love or admitting to a secret or crime. | こくはく Confessing love or admitting to a secret or crime. |
| 国民 こくみん The people or citizens of a nation. | こくみん The people or citizens of a nation. |
| 心地 ここち, ごこち Physical sensation, mood, or the feeling of comfort | ここち, ごこち Physical sensation, mood, or the feeling of comfort |
| 心地よい ここちよい, ここちいい Pleasant or comfortable sensation | ここちよい, ここちいい Pleasant or comfortable sensation |
| 此処等
(ここら)
ここら Around here; about this place or time | ここら Around here; about this place or time |
| 心から こころから, しんから Sincerely; from the bottom of one’s heart. | こころから, しんから Sincerely; from the bottom of one’s heart. |
| 心強い こころづよい Reassuring, heartening, or encouraging; feeling secure thanks to reliable support | こころづよい Reassuring, heartening, or encouraging; feeling secure thanks to reliable support |
| 試み こころみ An attempt, trial, or experiment. | こころみ An attempt, trial, or experiment. |
| 試みる こころみる To formally attempt or try something to see if it works | こころみる To formally attempt or try something to see if it works |
| 快い こころよい Pleasant, agreeable, or willing. | こころよい Pleasant, agreeable, or willing. |
| 心を込めて こころをこめて With all one’s heart; wholeheartedly; with sincere feeling. | こころをこめて With all one’s heart; wholeheartedly; with sincere feeling. |
| 小声 こごえ Low voice or whisper | こごえ Low voice or whisper |
| 腰掛ける こしかける To sit down on a seat or raised object | こしかける To sit down on a seat or raised object |
| 故障 こしょう Mechanical breakdown, failure, or physical ailment. | こしょう Mechanical breakdown, failure, or physical ailment. |
| 胡椒 こしょう Pepper (the spice) | こしょう Pepper (the spice) |
| 個人 こじん An individual or private person distinct from a group or organization. | こじん An individual or private person distinct from a group or organization. |
| 個人的 こじんてき Personal, individual, or private; relating to a specific person’s views or affairs. | こじんてき Personal, individual, or private; relating to a specific person’s views or affairs. |
| 越す こす To cross over a boundary, pass time, or exceed a limit. | こす To cross over a boundary, pass time, or exceed a limit. |
| 個性 こせい Individuality or distinctive character. | こせい Individuality or distinctive character. |
| こそ こそ Particle marking strong emphasis to mean precisely this, the very thing, or for this specific reason. | こそ Particle marking strong emphasis to mean precisely this, the very thing, or for this specific reason. |
| こそこそ こそこそ Sneakily, secretively, or whispering to avoid attention | こそこそ Sneakily, secretively, or whispering to avoid attention |
| 固体 こたい solid body or solid state of matter | こたい solid body or solid state of matter |
| 応える こたえる To respond to or meet expectations or requests. | こたえる To respond to or meet expectations or requests. |
| 炬燵
(こたつ)
こたつ Heated low table covered with a blanket | こたつ Heated low table covered with a blanket |
| 国家 こっか State or nation as a political organization | こっか State or nation as a political organization |
| 国境 こっきょう, くにざかい National border or boundary separating countries | こっきょう, くにざかい National border or boundary separating countries |
| こっそり こっそり Secretly, stealthily, or on the sly | こっそり Secretly, stealthily, or on the sly |
| 凝った こった Elaborate, fancy, or intricate; showing great attention to detail. | こった Elaborate, fancy, or intricate; showing great attention to detail. |
| コツコツ こつこつ Steady, diligent effort or a light tapping sound | こつこつ Steady, diligent effort or a light tapping sound |
| 固定 こてい Fixing in place or setting as constant | こてい Fixing in place or setting as constant |
| 事柄 ことがら A specific matter, issue, or affair. | ことがら A specific matter, issue, or affair. |
| 異なる ことなる To differ, to vary, or to be unlike (formal). | ことなる To differ, to vary, or to be unlike (formal). |
| 事によって
(ことによって)
ことによって By means of doing; due to the fact that. | ことによって By means of doing; due to the fact that. |
| 事による
(ことによる)
ことによる Depending on the matter or due to the fact. | ことによる Depending on the matter or due to the fact. |
| 言葉遣い ことばづかい Wording, diction, or manner of speaking. | ことばづかい Wording, diction, or manner of speaking. |
| 諺
(ことわざ)
ことわざ Proverb or saying | ことわざ Proverb or saying |
| 断る ことわる To refuse a request or to give prior notice/ask permission. | ことわる To refuse a request or to give prior notice/ask permission. |
| 孤独 こどく Loneliness or the state of emotional isolation | こどく Loneliness or the state of emotional isolation |
| 粉 こな, こ Powder, flour, or fine particles | こな, こ Powder, flour, or fine particles |
| この内
(このうち)
このうち, このなか Among these specific items or inside this physical space. | このうち, このなか Among these specific items or inside this physical space. |
| 木の葉 このは, きのは Tree leaves or foliage | このは, きのは Tree leaves or foliage |
| この辺 このへん Around here, this vicinity, or this point in a process. | このへん Around here, this vicinity, or this point in a process. |
| 好み このみ Personal preference, taste, or liking | このみ Personal preference, taste, or liking |
| 零す
(こぼす)
こぼす To spill a liquid, shed tears, or vent complaints | こぼす To spill a liquid, shed tears, or vent complaints |
| 小麦 こむぎ Wheat, the grain used for bread, noodles, and pasta. | こむぎ Wheat, the grain used for bread, noodles, and pasta. |
| 小麦粉 こむぎこ Wheat flour. | こむぎこ Wheat flour. |
| 込める こめる To put emotion or effort into; to include in a total; to load a weapon. | こめる To put emotion or effort into; to include in a total; to load a weapon. |
| 小指 こゆび Little finger (pinky) or little toe | こゆび Little finger (pinky) or little toe |
| 凝る こる To become stiff, be deeply engrossed in something, or be elaborate. | こる To become stiff, be deeply engrossed in something, or be elaborate. |
| これ迄
(これまで)
これまで Until now, so far, or declaring that is the end | これまで Until now, so far, or declaring that is the end |
| これ等
(これら)
これら Refers to multiple items near the speaker; equivalent to the English word ‘these’. | これら Refers to multiple items near the speaker; equivalent to the English word ‘these’. |
| 転がす ころがす To roll, knock over, leave lying around, or resell for profit. | ころがす To roll, knock over, leave lying around, or resell for profit. |
| 殺し ころし The act of murder or killing, or sometimes the killer. | ころし The act of murder or killing, or sometimes the killer. |
| 殺す ころす To kill, murder, or suppress/stifle | ころす To kill, murder, or suppress/stifle |
| 怖がる こわがる To show outward signs of fear or act scared. | こわがる To show outward signs of fear or act scared. |
| 今回 こんかい This time; on this specific occasion. | こんかい This time; on this specific occasion. |
| 今後 こんご From now on or hereafter, used in formal or official contexts. | こんご From now on or hereafter, used in formal or official contexts. |
| 混雑 こんざつ Crowding or congestion | こんざつ Crowding or congestion |
| 献立 こんだて A detailed meal plan, schedule of dishes, or set menu. | こんだて A detailed meal plan, schedule of dishes, or set menu. |
| 昆虫 こんちゅう Insect (formal or scientific term) | こんちゅう Insect (formal or scientific term) |
| 困難 こんなん A formal term for serious difficulty, hardship, or distress. | こんなん A formal term for serious difficulty, hardship, or distress. |
| 根本的 こんぽんてき Fundamental; pertaining to the root or foundation. | こんぽんてき Fundamental; pertaining to the root or foundation. |
| 婚約 こんやく Engagement; a formal promise to marry. | こんやく Engagement; a formal promise to marry. |
| 混乱 こんらん Disorder, chaos, or mental confusion. | こんらん Disorder, chaos, or mental confusion. |
| 焜炉
(コンロ)
こんろ Cooking stove or burner | こんろ Cooking stove or burner |
| コロコロ コロコロ Small rolling motion, fickleness, plumpness, or a lint roller. | コロコロ Small rolling motion, fickleness, plumpness, or a lint roller. |
| コンクール コンクール A competition or contest specifically for artistic fields like music or painting | コンクール A competition or contest specifically for artistic fields like music or painting |
| コンビ コンビ A duo, pair, or partnership. | コンビ A duo, pair, or partnership. |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 害 がい Harm, damage, or injury. | がい Harm, damage, or injury. |
| 外見 がいけん, そとみ Outward appearance or external look | がいけん, そとみ Outward appearance or external look |
| 外出 がいしゅつ The formal act of going out or leaving one’s home or office. | がいしゅつ The formal act of going out or leaving one’s home or office. |
| 外食 がいしょく Eating out or dining out | がいしょく Eating out or dining out |
| 画家 がか Professional painter | がか Professional painter |
| 学者 がくしゃ A scholar or academic devoted to specialized research or study. | がくしゃ A scholar or academic devoted to specialized research or study. |
| 学習 がくしゅう Learning; study; the acquisition of knowledge or skills. | がくしゅう Learning; study; the acquisition of knowledge or skills. |
| 学年 がくねん Academic year or grade level | がくねん Academic year or grade level |
| 学費 がくひ Tuition or school fees. | がくひ Tuition or school fees. |
| 学部 がくぶ University faculty or school | がくぶ University faculty or school |
| 学問 がくもん Scholarship or the formal pursuit of academic knowledge. | がくもん Scholarship or the formal pursuit of academic knowledge. |
| 学割 がくわり Student discount | がくわり Student discount |
| 画像 がぞう Digital image, picture, or visual representation | がぞう Digital image, picture, or visual representation |
| 学科 がっか Academic subject or university department | がっか Academic subject or university department |
| がっかり がっかり To feel disappointed, let down, or disheartened. | がっかり To feel disappointed, let down, or disheartened. |
| 合宿 がっしゅく Training camp or lodging together for intensive practice. | がっしゅく Training camp or lodging together for intensive practice. |
| がぶがぶ がぶがぶ Guzzling liquid rapidly or the sensation of a sloshing stomach. | がぶがぶ Guzzling liquid rapidly or the sensation of a sloshing stomach. |
| 我慢 がまん Endurance, patience, and self-control. | がまん Endurance, patience, and self-control. |
| 側 がわ, そば Side, direction, or party; vicinity or nearness. | がわ, そば Side, direction, or party; vicinity or nearness. |
| ガンガン がんがん Loud banging sounds, throbbing headaches, or doing something with full intensity. | がんがん Loud banging sounds, throbbing headaches, or doing something with full intensity. |
| 頑固 がんこ Stubborn and obstinate personality, or something persistent and difficult to remove. | がんこ Stubborn and obstinate personality, or something persistent and difficult to remove. |
| 元日 がんじつ, がんにち New Year’s Day; the entire day of January 1st | がんじつ, がんにち New Year’s Day; the entire day of January 1st |
| 元旦 がんたん The morning of New Year’s Day. | がんたん The morning of New Year’s Day. |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 議員 ぎいん Member of an assembly, legislature, or parliament. | ぎいん Member of an assembly, legislature, or parliament. |
| 議会 ぎかい Parliament, congress, or legislative assembly. | ぎかい Parliament, congress, or legislative assembly. |
| 儀式 ぎしき Ceremony, ritual, or formal procedure. | ぎしき Ceremony, ritual, or formal procedure. |
| 技術 ぎじゅつ Technology, engineering, skill, or technique. | ぎじゅつ Technology, engineering, skill, or technique. |
| ぎっしり ぎっしり Tightly packed or crammed full with no gaps | ぎっしり Tightly packed or crammed full with no gaps |
| 気味 ぎみ, きみ Slight tendency or sensation, often regarding negative states | ぎみ, きみ Slight tendency or sensation, often regarding negative states |
| 義務 ぎむ A mandatory duty or obligation required by law, rules, or social roles. | ぎむ A mandatory duty or obligation required by law, rules, or social roles. |
| 疑問 ぎもん Doubt, uncertainty, or a question held in the mind. | ぎもん Doubt, uncertainty, or a question held in the mind. |
| 逆 ぎゃく, さか Opposite, reverse, or upside-down state | ぎゃく, さか Opposite, reverse, or upside-down state |
| ぎゅうぎゅう ぎゅうぎゅう Packed tightly, squeezed hard, or squeaking from pressure. | ぎゅうぎゅう Packed tightly, squeezed hard, or squeaking from pressure. |
| 牛丼 ぎゅうどん Rice bowl topped with simmered beef and onions | ぎゅうどん Rice bowl topped with simmered beef and onions |
| 業 ぎょう, ごう Work, business, or industry; spiritual karma. | ぎょう, ごう Work, business, or industry; spiritual karma. |
| 行 ぎょう A line or row, typically of text, data, or seats. | ぎょう A line or row, typically of text, data, or seats. |
| 行儀 ぎょうぎ Manners, behavior, or social etiquette | ぎょうぎ Manners, behavior, or social etiquette |
| 行事 ぎょうじ An official event, ceremony, or function planned as part of a schedule or tradition. | ぎょうじ An official event, ceremony, or function planned as part of a schedule or tradition. |
| 行列 ぎょうれつ A waiting line of people or a mathematical matrix. | ぎょうれつ A waiting line of people or a mathematical matrix. |
| 漁業 ぎょぎょう The commercial fishing industry | ぎょぎょう The commercial fishing industry |
| 義理 ぎり Social obligation or duty; family relationship by marriage | ぎり Social obligation or duty; family relationship by marriage |
| ぎりぎり ぎりぎり Just barely; at the very limit with no margin to spare. | ぎりぎり Just barely; at the very limit with no margin to spare. |
| 議論 ぎろん Formal discussion, debate, or argument | ぎろん Formal discussion, debate, or argument |
| 銀 ぎん Silver (metal, color, or medal); also an abbreviation for bank. | ぎん Silver (metal, color, or medal); also an abbreviation for bank. |
| 餃子 ギョーザ Pan-fried dumplings filled with minced pork and vegetables | ギョーザ Pan-fried dumplings filled with minced pork and vegetables |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 具合 ぐあい The condition of one’s health, or the state and progress of things or situations. | ぐあい The condition of one’s health, or the state and progress of things or situations. |
| 偶然 ぐうぜん coincidence or happening by chance | ぐうぜん coincidence or happening by chance |
| 具体 ぐたい Concrete, specific, and detailed; the opposite of abstract. | ぐたい Concrete, specific, and detailed; the opposite of abstract. |
| ぐるぐる ぐるぐる Spinning, circling, or winding repeatedly. | ぐるぐる Spinning, circling, or winding repeatedly. |
| ぐるっと ぐるっと Turning or circling all the way around | ぐるっと Turning or circling all the way around |
| 軍 ぐん Army, military, or team/faction | ぐん Army, military, or team/faction |
| 軍人 ぐんじん Military personnel or soldier | ぐんじん Military personnel or soldier |
| 軍隊 ぐんたい Armed forces or military. | ぐんたい Armed forces or military. |
| グラグラ グラグラ Wobbly instability, loose movement, or vigorous boiling. | グラグラ Wobbly instability, loose movement, or vigorous boiling. |
| グー グー Rock in rock-paper-scissors, a rumbling stomach sound, or a casual thumbs-up. | グー Rock in rock-paper-scissors, a rumbling stomach sound, or a casual thumbs-up. |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 芸術 げいじゅつ Art, specifically fine arts such as painting, sculpture, and music. | げいじゅつ Art, specifically fine arts such as painting, sculpture, and music. |
| 芸術家 げいじゅつか Artist, specifically in fine arts like painting or sculpture | げいじゅつか Artist, specifically in fine arts like painting or sculpture |
| 芸人 げいにん Professional comedian, especially on television | げいにん Professional comedian, especially on television |
| 芸能 げいのう Public entertainment, performing arts, or show business. | げいのう Public entertainment, performing arts, or show business. |
| 外科医 げかい Surgeon; a medical doctor who specializes in performing operations. | げかい Surgeon; a medical doctor who specializes in performing operations. |
| 劇 げき Play or drama | げき Play or drama |
| 劇場 げきじょう Theater or playhouse for live stage performances. | げきじょう Theater or playhouse for live stage performances. |
| 下車 げしゃ Alighting or getting off a vehicle | げしゃ Alighting or getting off a vehicle |
| 下宿 げしゅく Boarding or lodging, typically involving renting a room with meals provided. | げしゅく Boarding or lodging, typically involving renting a room with meals provided. |
| 月給 げっきゅう Fixed monthly salary | げっきゅう Fixed monthly salary |
| 月末 げつまつ, つきずえ End of the month | げつまつ, つきずえ End of the month |
| 下品 げひん Vulgar, crude, or lacking refinement. | げひん Vulgar, crude, or lacking refinement. |
| 下痢 げり Diarrhea; the medical term for having loose, watery stools. | げり Diarrhea; the medical term for having loose, watery stools. |
| 原因 げんいん Direct cause or source of a result, particularly regarding accidents or problems. | げんいん Direct cause or source of a result, particularly regarding accidents or problems. |
| 現金 げんきん Physical cash, or a calculating and self-interested attitude. | げんきん Physical cash, or a calculating and self-interested attitude. |
| 原稿 げんこう Manuscript, draft, or script prepared for publication or presentation. | げんこう Manuscript, draft, or script prepared for publication or presentation. |
| 言語 げんご Language as a system of communication. | げんご Language as a system of communication. |
| 原子 げんし Atom; the basic unit of matter | げんし Atom; the basic unit of matter |
| 減少 げんしょう Decrease or reduction in number or amount | げんしょう Decrease or reduction in number or amount |
| 現象 げんしょう Observable phenomenon or occurrence | げんしょう Observable phenomenon or occurrence |
| 原子力 げんしりょく Nuclear power or atomic energy. | げんしりょく Nuclear power or atomic energy. |
| 現実 げんじつ Reality; the actual state of things. | げんじつ Reality; the actual state of things. |
| 現実的 げんじつてき Realistic, practical, or feasible. | げんじつてき Realistic, practical, or feasible. |
| 現状 げんじょう The present condition, existing state, or status quo. | げんじょう The present condition, existing state, or status quo. |
| 現代 げんだい Modern times; the present era. | げんだい Modern times; the present era. |
| 現地 げんち The actual site, local field, or physical location where an activity occurs. | げんち The actual site, local field, or physical location where an activity occurs. |
| 言動 げんどう Speech and conduct; words and actions. | げんどう Speech and conduct; words and actions. |
| 現場 げんば The actual site where work or an event takes place. | げんば The actual site where work or an event takes place. |
| 原理 げんり Fundamental principle, theory, or mechanism explaining how something works | げんり Fundamental principle, theory, or mechanism explaining how something works |
| 原料 げんりょう Raw materials or unprocessed substances used in manufacturing | げんりょう Raw materials or unprocessed substances used in manufacturing |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 号 ごう Suffix used for numbers, magazine issues, models, or sizes. | ごう Suffix used for numbers, magazine issues, models, or sizes. |
| 合格 ごうかく Passing a test, meeting standards, or being accepted. | ごうかく Passing a test, meeting standards, or being accepted. |
| 合計 ごうけい The total sum calculated by adding numbers. | ごうけい The total sum calculated by adding numbers. |
| 強盗 ごうとう Robbery or robber; theft committed using force or threats | ごうとう Robbery or robber; theft committed using force or threats |
| ご遠慮ください ごえんりょください Please refrain from; a formal request commonly found on public signs. | ごえんりょください Please refrain from; a formal request commonly found on public signs. |
| 誤解 ごかい Misunderstanding someone’s words or intentions. | ごかい Misunderstanding someone’s words or intentions. |
| 語学 ごがく Practical language study | ごがく Practical language study |
| 極
(ごく)
ごく Extremely (restricted to small, few, or ordinary things) | ごく Extremely (restricted to small, few, or ordinary things) |
| ご苦労様 ごくろうさま Thank you for your hard work (used strictly by superiors towards subordinates). | ごくろうさま Thank you for your hard work (used strictly by superiors towards subordinates). |
| 後日 ごじつ At a later date or some other day in the future. | ごじつ At a later date or some other day in the future. |
| ご存知
(ご存じ)
ごぞんじ Knowing (honorific) | ごぞんじ Knowing (honorific) |
| 毎に
(ごとに)
ごとに Suffix meaning every, each, or at specific intervals. | ごとに Suffix meaning every, each, or at specific intervals. |
| 胡麻
(ごま)
ごま Sesame | ごま Sesame |
| 護謨
(ゴム)
ごむ Rubber; colloquially refers to an eraser or condom | ごむ Rubber; colloquially refers to an eraser or condom |
| 娯楽 ごらく Entertainment, recreation, or amusement enjoyed for pleasure. | ごらく Entertainment, recreation, or amusement enjoyed for pleasure. |
| ご覧 ごらん Honorific reference to seeing or looking, also used for gentle commands or suggestions. | ごらん Honorific reference to seeing or looking, also used for gentle commands or suggestions. |
| ゴロゴロ ゴロゴロ Heavy rolling, deep rumbling sounds, idling lazily, or being commonplace. | ゴロゴロ Heavy rolling, deep rumbling sounds, idling lazily, or being commonplace. |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 差 さ Difference, gap, or margin. | さ Difference, gap, or margin. |
| さあ さあ Urging action or expressing uncertainty. | さあ Urging action or expressing uncertainty. |
| 再 さい Prefix meaning ‘re-’ or ‘again’. | さい Prefix meaning ‘re-’ or ‘again’. |
| 際 さい, きわ Formal ‘when’ or occasion; physical edge or brink | さい, きわ Formal ‘when’ or occasion; physical edge or brink |
| 最悪 さいあく Signifies the absolute worst quality, an awful situation, or a worst-case scenario. | さいあく Signifies the absolute worst quality, an awful situation, or a worst-case scenario. |
| 再開 さいかい Resuming or reopening an activity after a pause. | さいかい Resuming or reopening an activity after a pause. |
| 再会 さいかい Meeting again after a long separation | さいかい Meeting again after a long separation |
| 最強 さいきょう The strongest, most powerful, or absolute best. | さいきょう The strongest, most powerful, or absolute best. |
| 最高 さいこう The highest, maximum, or absolute best. | さいこう The highest, maximum, or absolute best. |
| 最終 さいしゅう The final or last stage in a schedule, series, or process. | さいしゅう The final or last stage in a schedule, series, or process. |
| 最終的 さいしゅうてき Final, ultimate, or eventual | さいしゅうてき Final, ultimate, or eventual |
| 最小 さいしょう Smallest; minimum | さいしょう Smallest; minimum |
| 最小限 さいしょうげん The minimum; the smallest possible amount or degree. | さいしょうげん The minimum; the smallest possible amount or degree. |
| 最新 さいしん The latest, newest, or most up-to-date version. | さいしん The latest, newest, or most up-to-date version. |
| 再生 さいせい Media playback, material recycling, or biological regeneration | さいせい Media playback, material recycling, or biological regeneration |
| 最大 さいだい Biggest, largest, or maximum. | さいだい Biggest, largest, or maximum. |
| 最大限 さいだいげん Maximum; to the fullest extent possible | さいだいげん Maximum; to the fullest extent possible |
| 最中 さいちゅう, さなか In the very middle or height of an action or event. | さいちゅう, さなか In the very middle or height of an action or event. |
| 最低 さいてい The lowest, minimum, or the worst. | さいてい The lowest, minimum, or the worst. |
| 最適 さいてき Optimal or most suitable for a specific purpose | さいてき Optimal or most suitable for a specific purpose |
| 災難 さいなん Misfortune, calamity, or disaster; an unfortunate event ranging from large catastrophes to personal bad luck. | さいなん Misfortune, calamity, or disaster; an unfortunate event ranging from large catastrophes to personal bad luck. |
| 才能 さいのう Natural talent or aptitude | さいのう Natural talent or aptitude |
| 栽培 さいばい Cultivation or the growing of plants. | さいばい Cultivation or the growing of plants. |
| 裁判 さいばん Trial; judgment | さいばん Trial; judgment |
| 裁判官 さいばんかん judge (in a court of law) | さいばんかん judge (in a court of law) |
| 裁判所 さいばんしょ Court of law or courthouse | さいばんしょ Court of law or courthouse |
| 採用 さいよう Hiring an employee or adopting an idea or method. | さいよう Hiring an employee or adopting an idea or method. |
| 幸い さいわい Fortunately, luckily, or a blessing. | さいわい Fortunately, luckily, or a blessing. |
| さえ さえ Even; if only. | さえ Even; if only. |
| さえあれば さえあれば As long as there is; if only there is. | さえあれば As long as there is; if only there is. |
| 坂 さか Slope or hill | さか Slope or hill |
| 逆さま さかさま Upside down, inside out, or physically reversed. | さかさま Upside down, inside out, or physically reversed. |
| 逆立ち さかだち A handstand or a state where logic and order are reversed | さかだち A handstand or a state where logic and order are reversed |
| 酒屋 さかや Liquor store or alcohol merchant | さかや Liquor store or alcohol merchant |
| 盛ん さかん Thriving, prosperous, popular, or energetic. | さかん Thriving, prosperous, popular, or energetic. |
| 下がり さがり Drop, decline, or hand-me-down | さがり Drop, decline, or hand-me-down |
| 作業 さぎょう Work, operations, or specific tasks | さぎょう Work, operations, or specific tasks |
| 作 さく Creative work, artistic production, or agricultural harvest. | さく Creative work, artistic production, or agricultural harvest. |
| 作詞 さくし Writing song lyrics | さくし Writing song lyrics |
| 削除 さくじょ Deletion, removal, or elimination. | さくじょ Deletion, removal, or elimination. |
| 作成 さくせい Drawing up or creating documents, plans, and files | さくせい Drawing up or creating documents, plans, and files |
| 作戦 さくせん A military operation, tactics, or a strategic game plan. | さくせん A military operation, tactics, or a strategic game plan. |
| 昨晩 さくばん Last night (formal) | さくばん Last night (formal) |
| 作品 さくひん A creative work, piece of art, or production. | さくひん A creative work, piece of art, or production. |
| 作物 さくもつ Agricultural crops or produce. | さくもつ Agricultural crops or produce. |
| 叫び さけび A shout, scream, or cry expressing strong emotion. | さけび A shout, scream, or cry expressing strong emotion. |
| 叫ぶ さけぶ To shout, scream, or strongly advocate for a cause. | さけぶ To shout, scream, or strongly advocate for a cause. |
| 避ける さける, よける To avoid a situation or physically dodge an object | さける, よける To avoid a situation or physically dodge an object |
| 支える ささえる To support, hold up, or sustain | ささえる To support, hold up, or sustain |
| 刺す さす To pierce with a sharp point, encompassing stabbing, stinging, and stitching. | さす To pierce with a sharp point, encompassing stabbing, stinging, and stitching. |
| 流石
(さすが)
さすが as expected; true to reputation; even | さすが as expected; true to reputation; even |
| 左折 させつ A left turn, typically used in driving or navigation. | させつ A left turn, typically used in driving or navigation. |
| 誘い さそい, いざない Invitation, offer, or temptation | さそい, いざない Invitation, offer, or temptation |
| 誘う さそう To invite someone along, tempt or lure, or induce a specific feeling or reaction. | さそう To invite someone along, tempt or lure, or induce a specific feeling or reaction. |
| 定める さだめる To officially establish or stipulate rules, laws, or policies. | さだめる To officially establish or stipulate rules, laws, or policies. |
| 作家 さっか Author, writer, or professional artist. | さっか Author, writer, or professional artist. |
| 作曲 さっきょく Musical composition or to compose music | さっきょく Musical composition or to compose music |
| さっさと さっさと Quickly and without hesitation, often implying impatience. | さっさと Quickly and without hesitation, often implying impatience. |
| 早速 さっそく Acting immediately or without delay, often in response to a new opportunity. | さっそく Acting immediately or without delay, often in response to a new opportunity. |
| 颯と
(さっと)
さっと Quickly, lightly, and briefly | さっと Quickly, lightly, and briefly |
| さっぱり さっぱり Refreshed feeling, light taste or character, or completely not at all. | さっぱり Refreshed feeling, light taste or character, or completely not at all. |
| 撮影 さつえい Photography; filming; shooting video or photos. | さつえい Photography; filming; shooting video or photos. |
| 殺害 さつがい Formal term for murder or homicide | さつがい Formal term for murder or homicide |
| 殺人 さつじん Murder; the crime of intentionally killing another person. | さつじん Murder; the crime of intentionally killing another person. |
| 偖
(さて)
さて Well; now then; signaling a shift to a new topic or action. | さて Well; now then; signaling a shift to a new topic or action. |
| 差別 さべつ Discrimination; unfair treatment based on characteristics. | さべつ Discrimination; unfair treatment based on characteristics. |
| 様々 さまざま Various, diverse, or all kinds of different things; slightly formal. | さまざま Various, diverse, or all kinds of different things; slightly formal. |
| 覚ます さます To wake someone up, sober them up, or spoil the mood. | さます To wake someone up, sober them up, or spoil the mood. |
| 寒気 さむけ, かんき Physical chills from illness, or atmospheric cold air | さむけ, かんき Physical chills from illness, or atmospheric cold air |
| 覚める さめる To wake up from sleep, sober up, or come to one’s senses. | さめる To wake up from sleep, sober up, or come to one’s senses. |
| 左右 さゆう Left and right directions, or to influence and control a situation. | さゆう Left and right directions, or to influence and control a situation. |
| 作用 さよう Action, operation, or effect; the process of one thing acting on another. | さよう Action, operation, or effect; the process of one thing acting on another. |
| さらさら さらさら Silky, dry smoothness, gentle rustling, or effortless flow | さらさら Silky, dry smoothness, gentle rustling, or effortless flow |
| 更に
(さらに)
さらに Furthermore, in addition, or even more | さらに Furthermore, in addition, or even more |
| 去る さる To leave or depart, for time to pass, or indicating a past date. | さる To leave or depart, for time to pass, or indicating a past date. |
| 猿 さる Monkey or ape, or a derogatory term for a foolish or uncivilized person. | さる Monkey or ape, or a derogatory term for a foolish or uncivilized person. |
| 騒がしい さわがしい Unpleasantly noisy or socially turbulent. | さわがしい Unpleasantly noisy or socially turbulent. |
| 騒ぎ さわぎ A noisy commotion, disturbance, or public fuss. | さわぎ A noisy commotion, disturbance, or public fuss. |
| 騒ぐ さわぐ To make noise, cause a commotion, or panic. | さわぐ To make noise, cause a commotion, or panic. |
| 爽やか さわやか Refreshing, invigorating, and pleasant. | さわやか Refreshing, invigorating, and pleasant. |
| 参加 さんか To participate, join, or take part in an event or activity. | さんか To participate, join, or take part in an event or activity. |
| 三角 さんかく Triangle shape, or a symbol indicating something is so-so, partially correct, or borderline. | さんかく Triangle shape, or a symbol indicating something is so-so, partially correct, or borderline. |
| 産業 さんぎょう Industry; a major sector of economic activity. | さんぎょう Industry; a major sector of economic activity. |
| 参考 さんこう Reference or information used for guidance and ideas. | さんこう Reference or information used for guidance and ideas. |
| 参考書 さんこうしょ Reference book or study guide | さんこうしょ Reference book or study guide |
| 算数 さんすう Arithmetic or elementary school mathematics | さんすう Arithmetic or elementary school mathematics |
| 賛成 さんせい Agreement, approval, or support for a proposal or opinion. | さんせい Agreement, approval, or support for a proposal or opinion. |
| 産地 さんち Place of origin or production area | さんち Place of origin or production area |
| 散髪 さんぱつ Getting a haircut, typically implying a standard trim or a visit to a barbershop. | さんぱつ Getting a haircut, typically implying a standard trim or a visit to a barbershop. |
| 山脈 さんみゃく Mountain range | さんみゃく Mountain range |
| サイン サイン A signature, autograph, or non-verbal signal. | サイン A signature, autograph, or non-verbal signal. |
| サービス サービス General customer service, a sports serve, or a complimentary item provided for free. | サービス General customer service, a sports serve, or a complimentary item provided for free. |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 死 し Death, or an out in baseball. | し Death, or an out in baseball. |
| 仕上がり しあがり The finish, final result, or quality of completion | しあがり The finish, final result, or quality of completion |
| 仕上げる しあげる to finish up, complete, or apply the final touches | しあげる to finish up, complete, or apply the final touches |
| 幸せ しあわせ Lasting happiness, contentment, or good fortune. | しあわせ Lasting happiness, contentment, or good fortune. |
| 飼育 しいく The formal, systematic act of raising and breeding animals. | しいく The formal, systematic act of raising and breeding animals. |
| 塩辛い しおからい Salty taste, often implying excessive saltiness | しおからい Salty taste, often implying excessive saltiness |
| 司会 しかい Presiding over a meeting or acting as master of ceremonies. | しかい Presiding over a meeting or acting as master of ceremonies. |
| 四角 しかく A four-sided shape, or a rigid, formal personality. | しかく A four-sided shape, or a rigid, formal personality. |
| 資格 しかく A formal qualification, license, or eligibility. | しかく A formal qualification, license, or eligibility. |
| 然も
(しかも)
しかも Moreover; on top of that; what’s more. | しかも Moreover; on top of that; what’s more. |
| 叱る しかる To scold or reprimand, typically from a position of authority. | しかる To scold or reprimand, typically from a position of authority. |
| 式 しき A formal ceremony, mathematical equation, or specific style. | しき A formal ceremony, mathematical equation, or specific style. |
| 四季 しき The four seasons of the year. | しき The four seasons of the year. |
| 敷き布団 しきぶとん Traditional Japanese floor mattress | しきぶとん Traditional Japanese floor mattress |
| 敷く しく To spread out, lay down, or install. | しく To spread out, lay down, or install. |
| 刺激 しげき Physical or mental stimulation, irritation, or excitement. | しげき Physical or mental stimulation, irritation, or excitement. |
| 死後 しご The period after death; posthumous | しご The period after death; posthumous |
| 死者 ししゃ The dead or casualties | ししゃ The dead or casualties |
| 試食 ししょく Food sampling; tasting a food sample | ししょく Food sampling; tasting a food sample |
| 指示 しじ Direct instructions, directions, or the act of indicating something. | しじ Direct instructions, directions, or the act of indicating something. |
| 静まる しずまる to become quiet, calm down, or subside | しずまる to become quiet, calm down, or subside |
| 沈む しずむ To sink, to set, or to feel depressed | しずむ To sink, to set, or to feel depressed |
| 施設 しせつ A facility or institution established for a specific purpose. | しせつ A facility or institution established for a specific purpose. |
| 自然 しぜん nature, the outdoors; natural, unforced, or automatic state | しぜん nature, the outdoors; natural, unforced, or automatic state |
| 舌 した, ぜつ The anatomical tongue; often refers figuratively to one’s sense of taste or palate. | した, ぜつ The anatomical tongue; often refers figuratively to one’s sense of taste or palate. |
| 死体 したい A dead body or corpse, typically used in objective, clinical, or official contexts. | したい A dead body or corpse, typically used in objective, clinical, or official contexts. |
| 従う したがう To follow, obey, or act in accordance with | したがう To follow, obey, or act in accordance with |
| 下書き したがき Rough draft, rough copy, or preliminary version | したがき Rough draft, rough copy, or preliminary version |
| 支度 したく Personal preparation, such as getting ready to go out or making a meal | したく Personal preparation, such as getting ready to go out or making a meal |
| 親しい したしい Close, intimate, or familiar. | したしい Close, intimate, or familiar. |
| 親しみ したしみ Familiarity, affection, or a sense of closeness. | したしみ Familiarity, affection, or a sense of closeness. |
| 次第 しだい Depending on; as soon as; circumstances | しだい Depending on; as soon as; circumstances |
| 次第に しだいに Gradually; little by little. | しだいに Gradually; little by little. |
| 試着 しちゃく Trying on clothes | しちゃく Trying on clothes |
| 市長 しちょう Mayor; the head of a city government | しちょう Mayor; the head of a city government |
| 確り
(しっかり)
しっかり Firmly, tightly, properly, or reliably | しっかり Firmly, tightly, properly, or reliably |
| 湿気 しっけ Moisture, dampness, or humidity. | しっけ Moisture, dampness, or humidity. |
| 尻尾 しっぽ Tail of an animal or the tail end of an object | しっぽ Tail of an animal or the tail end of an object |
| 質 しつ Quality, nature, or substance. | しつ Quality, nature, or substance. |
| 失業 しつぎょう Unemployment or involuntary job loss. | しつぎょう Unemployment or involuntary job loss. |
| 執拗い
(しつこい)
しつこい Annoyingly persistent behavior or unpleasantly greasy taste | しつこい Annoyingly persistent behavior or unpleasantly greasy taste |
| 湿度 しつど Humidity | しつど Humidity |
| 失恋 しつれん Broken heart; unrequited love | しつれん Broken heart; unrequited love |
| 私鉄 してつ Private railway; a train line not operated by the Japan Railways (JR) Group. | してつ Private railway; a train line not operated by the Japan Railways (JR) Group. |
| しとしと しとしと Gentle, quiet rain or drizzling | しとしと Gentle, quiet rain or drizzling |
| 指導 しどう Guidance, instruction, or coaching. | しどう Guidance, instruction, or coaching. |
| 品 しな, ひん Physical goods, products, or the quality of elegance and refinement. | しな, ひん Physical goods, products, or the quality of elegance and refinement. |
| 品物 しなもの Goods, articles, or merchandise | しなもの Goods, articles, or merchandise |
| 支払い しはらい Payment; the act of paying for goods, services, or bills. | しはらい Payment; the act of paying for goods, services, or bills. |
| 支払う しはらう To make a payment, especially for bills, fees, or official expenses. | しはらう To make a payment, especially for bills, fees, or official expenses. |
| 芝居 しばい A theatrical play or putting on an act to deceive. | しばい A theatrical play or putting on an act to deceive. |
| 芝生 しばふ A lawn or area of maintained grass. | しばふ A lawn or area of maintained grass. |
| 私服 しふく Plain clothes or civilian dress distinct from a uniform | しふく Plain clothes or civilian dress distinct from a uniform |
| 死亡 しぼう Formal, objective term for death used in official contexts like news or medical reports. | しぼう Formal, objective term for death used in official contexts like news or medical reports. |
| 志望 しぼう Formal aspiration or desired choice for a school or job. | しぼう Formal aspiration or desired choice for a school or job. |
| 絞る しぼる To squeeze or wring out, narrow down options, or strain one’s voice or mind. | しぼる To squeeze or wring out, narrow down options, or strain one’s voice or mind. |
| 市民 しみん A resident or citizen of a specific city. | しみん A resident or citizen of a specific city. |
| 締め しめ Tightening; a conclusion or deadline; the final dish of a meal. | しめ Tightening; a conclusion or deadline; the final dish of a meal. |
| 氏名 しめい Formal full name used on official forms and documents. | しめい Formal full name used on official forms and documents. |
| 締め切り しめきり A deadline or final cut-off time. | しめきり A deadline or final cut-off time. |
| 締め切る しめきる to close applications or seal a room completely | しめきる to close applications or seal a room completely |
| 示す しめす To show, indicate, or demonstrate information or feelings | しめす To show, indicate, or demonstrate information or feelings |
| 締める しめる To tighten or fasten items like belts or screws; to economize or restrict a budget. | しめる To tighten or fasten items like belts or screws; to economize or restrict a budget. |
| 占める しめる To occupy a space, hold a position, or account for a percentage. | しめる To occupy a space, hold a position, or account for a percentage. |
| 社会的 しゃかいてき Relating to society or social structures. | しゃかいてき Relating to society or social structures. |
| 借金 しゃっきん Debt or borrowed money, often implying a financial burden. | しゃっきん Debt or borrowed money, often implying a financial burden. |
| 喋る
(しゃべる)
しゃべる To talk casually, chatter, or blab. | しゃべる To talk casually, chatter, or blab. |
| 州 しゅう State, province, or suffix for continents | しゅう State, province, or suffix for continents |
| 集 しゅう Suffix denoting a collection, compilation, or anthology | しゅう Suffix denoting a collection, compilation, or anthology |
| 周囲 しゅうい Physical surroundings, social circle, or circumference | しゅうい Physical surroundings, social circle, or circumference |
| 収穫 しゅうかく Harvest of crops or catch; figuratively, useful results or gains. | しゅうかく Harvest of crops or catch; figuratively, useful results or gains. |
| 習慣 しゅうかん Personal habit or societal custom | しゅうかん Personal habit or societal custom |
| 修学旅行 しゅうがくりょこう Multi-day, overnight school excursion. | しゅうがくりょこう Multi-day, overnight school excursion. |
| 宗教 しゅうきょう Religion or organized belief system | しゅうきょう Religion or organized belief system |
| 集金 しゅうきん Collecting payments, fees, or dues | しゅうきん Collecting payments, fees, or dues |
| 集合 しゅうごう A gathering, assembly, or set. | しゅうごう A gathering, assembly, or set. |
| 収集 しゅうしゅう Systematic collection or gathering, used for hobbies, data, or trash. | しゅうしゅう Systematic collection or gathering, used for hobbies, data, or trash. |
| 就職 しゅうしょく Finding or starting full-time employment | しゅうしょく Finding or starting full-time employment |
| 修正 しゅうせい correction, revision, or fix | しゅうせい correction, revision, or fix |
| 集団 しゅうだん A group, mass, or collective of people. | しゅうだん A group, mass, or collective of people. |
| 集中 しゅうちゅう To focus attention or gather things to a central point. | しゅうちゅう To focus attention or gather things to a central point. |
| 終点 しゅうてん The final stop or terminus of a transportation route. | しゅうてん The final stop or terminus of a transportation route. |
| 終電 しゅうでん The last train of the day. | しゅうでん The last train of the day. |
| 収入 しゅうにゅう Income, revenue, or total earnings. | しゅうにゅう Income, revenue, or total earnings. |
| 修理 しゅうり Repairing or mending broken physical objects like machines, electronics, or vehicles. | しゅうり Repairing or mending broken physical objects like machines, electronics, or vehicles. |
| 終了 しゅうりょう Formal end, termination, or conclusion of an event, service, or process | しゅうりょう Formal end, termination, or conclusion of an event, service, or process |
| 主義 しゅぎ Principle, doctrine, ideology, or the suffix -ism | しゅぎ Principle, doctrine, ideology, or the suffix -ism |
| 修行 しゅぎょう Ascetic practice or grueling training required for spiritual or professional mastery | しゅぎょう Ascetic practice or grueling training required for spiritual or professional mastery |
| 祝日 しゅくじつ Official national or public holiday. | しゅくじつ Official national or public holiday. |
| 宿泊 しゅくはく Formal lodging or staying overnight | しゅくはく Formal lodging or staying overnight |
| 祝福 しゅくふく Blessing, benediction, or celebration. | しゅくふく Blessing, benediction, or celebration. |
| 首相 しゅしょう Prime Minister; the head of government in a parliamentary system. | しゅしょう Prime Minister; the head of government in a parliamentary system. |
| 手術 しゅじゅつ medical surgery or operation | しゅじゅつ medical surgery or operation |
| 主人公 しゅじんこう Protagonist or main character | しゅじんこう Protagonist or main character |
| 手段 しゅだん A specific means, method, or measure taken to achieve a goal. | しゅだん A specific means, method, or measure taken to achieve a goal. |
| 主張 しゅちょう A firm claim, assertion, or insistence on a position. | しゅちょう A firm claim, assertion, or insistence on a position. |
| 出血 しゅっけつ Physical bleeding; significant financial loss | しゅっけつ Physical bleeding; significant financial loss |
| 出国 しゅっこく Official departure from a country | しゅっこく Official departure from a country |
| 出産 しゅっさん Childbirth or the act of giving birth. | しゅっさん Childbirth or the act of giving birth. |
| 出世 しゅっせ Career advancement, promotion, or success in life. | しゅっせ Career advancement, promotion, or success in life. |
| 出席 しゅっせき Attendance or being present at a formal event, meeting, or class. | しゅっせき Attendance or being present at a formal event, meeting, or class. |
| 出張 しゅっちょう Business trip | しゅっちょう Business trip |
| 出版 しゅっぱん Publication; publishing | しゅっぱん Publication; publishing |
| 出演 しゅつえん appearing or performing in a film, play, or TV show | しゅつえん appearing or performing in a film, play, or TV show |
| 首都 しゅと The capital city of a country. | しゅと The capital city of a country. |
| 主として しゅとして Mainly, primarily, or principally (formal) | しゅとして Mainly, primarily, or principally (formal) |
| 守備 しゅび Defense or fielding | しゅび Defense or fielding |
| 主婦 しゅふ Housewife or homemaker | しゅふ Housewife or homemaker |
| 主役 しゅやく Leading role, protagonist, or center of attention | しゅやく Leading role, protagonist, or center of attention |
| 春夏秋冬 しゅんかしゅうとう The four seasons; spring, summer, autumn, and winter. | しゅんかしゅうとう The four seasons; spring, summer, autumn, and winter. |
| 瞬間 しゅんかん A moment, instant, or split second. | しゅんかん A moment, instant, or split second. |
| 章 しょう Chapter or section of a text; also denotes a badge or insignia. | しょう Chapter or section of a text; also denotes a badge or insignia. |
| 賞 しょう Prize or award for achievement. | しょう Prize or award for achievement. |
| 消化 しょうか Digesting food, absorbing information, or clearing a backlog of tasks. | しょうか Digesting food, absorbing information, or clearing a backlog of tasks. |
| 消火 しょうか The formal act of extinguishing a fire or firefighting. | しょうか The formal act of extinguishing a fire or firefighting. |
| 障害者 しょうがいしゃ Person with a disability | しょうがいしゃ Person with a disability |
| 奨学金 しょうがくきん, しょうがっきん Scholarship or student loan | しょうがくきん, しょうがっきん Scholarship or student loan |
| 消極 しょうきょく Passivity or a lack of initiative and enthusiasm. | しょうきょく Passivity or a lack of initiative and enthusiasm. |
| 賞金 しょうきん Prize money or monetary reward | しょうきん Prize money or monetary reward |
| 商業 しょうぎょう Commerce or trade; the large-scale system of buying and selling goods. | しょうぎょう Commerce or trade; the large-scale system of buying and selling goods. |
| 証拠 しょうこ Evidence or proof establishing a fact | しょうこ Evidence or proof establishing a fact |
| 正午 しょうご Noon or exactly 12:00 PM | しょうご Noon or exactly 12:00 PM |
| 詳細 しょうさい Details, particulars, or specific information. | しょうさい Details, particulars, or specific information. |
| 少々 しょうしょう A formal term indicating a small quantity, slight degree, or brief duration. | しょうしょう A formal term indicating a small quantity, slight degree, or brief duration. |
| 正直 しょうじき Honesty, uprightness, or speaking frankly. | しょうじき Honesty, uprightness, or speaking frankly. |
| 少女 しょうじょ Young girl or adolescent female | しょうじょ Young girl or adolescent female |
| 症状 しょうじょう Symptoms or signs indicating an illness or condition | しょうじょう Symptoms or signs indicating an illness or condition |
| 少数 しょうすう A small number or minority. | しょうすう A small number or minority. |
| 小説 しょうせつ novel; work of fiction | しょうせつ novel; work of fiction |
| 招待 しょうたい Formal invitation to an event where the host typically covers the cost. | しょうたい Formal invitation to an event where the host typically covers the cost. |
| 承知 しょうち Formal acknowledgment, consent, or full knowledge of a situation. | しょうち Formal acknowledgment, consent, or full knowledge of a situation. |
| 商店街 しょうてんがい Local shopping street or covered arcade | しょうてんがい Local shopping street or covered arcade |
| 衝突 しょうとつ A physical collision between objects or an abstract clash of opinions and interests. | しょうとつ A physical collision between objects or an abstract clash of opinions and interests. |
| 消毒 しょうどく Disinfection or sterilization. | しょうどく Disinfection or sterilization. |
| 商人 しょうにん, あきんど Merchant, trader, or dealer | しょうにん, あきんど Merchant, trader, or dealer |
| 少年 しょうねん A boy or youth, particularly in formal, legal, or literary contexts. | しょうねん A boy or youth, particularly in formal, legal, or literary contexts. |
| 商売 しょうばい Trade, commerce, or the activity of buying and selling for a living | しょうばい Trade, commerce, or the activity of buying and selling for a living |
| 消費 しょうひ Consumption or expenditure of resources like money, energy, and time. | しょうひ Consumption or expenditure of resources like money, energy, and time. |
| 消費者 しょうひしゃ A formal term for a consumer in a business or economic context. | しょうひしゃ A formal term for a consumer in a business or economic context. |
| 商品 しょうひん Product or merchandise available for sale | しょうひん Product or merchandise available for sale |
| 賞品 しょうひん A physical prize or product awarded to a winner. | しょうひん A physical prize or product awarded to a winner. |
| 勝負 しょうぶ A match, contest, or showdown to determine victory or defeat | しょうぶ A match, contest, or showdown to determine victory or defeat |
| 消防 しょうぼう Firefighting; fire department | しょうぼう Firefighting; fire department |
| 消防署 しょうぼうしょ Fire station | しょうぼうしょ Fire station |
| 賞味期限 しょうみきげん Best-before date indicating the limit for optimal flavor and quality. | しょうみきげん Best-before date indicating the limit for optimal flavor and quality. |
| 証明 しょうめい Proof, certification, or the act of establishing a fact as true. | しょうめい Proof, certification, or the act of establishing a fact as true. |
| 正面 しょうめん The front, façade, or direction straight ahead | しょうめん The front, façade, or direction straight ahead |
| 勝利 しょうり Formal term for a victory or significant win. | しょうり Formal term for a victory or significant win. |
| 省略 しょうりゃく To omit, leave out, or abbreviate. | しょうりゃく To omit, leave out, or abbreviate. |
| 少量 しょうりょう A formal term for a small quantity or amount, often used in recipes or instructions. | しょうりょう A formal term for a small quantity or amount, often used in recipes or instructions. |
| 初夏 しょか, はつなつ The beginning of the summer season; early summer. | しょか, はつなつ The beginning of the summer season; early summer. |
| 初期 しょき Early stage or initial phase | しょき Early stage or initial phase |
| 初級 しょきゅう Beginner or elementary level. | しょきゅう Beginner or elementary level. |
| 食 しょく Food, eating, or a counter for meals | しょく Food, eating, or a counter for meals |
| 職 しょく Job, employment, or occupation. | しょく Job, employment, or occupation. |
| 職員 しょくいん Staff member of a public institution or government office | しょくいん Staff member of a public institution or government office |
| 職業 しょくぎょう Formal term for occupation or profession | しょくぎょう Formal term for occupation or profession |
| 職場 しょくば Workplace or place of employment, referring to both the physical location and the social atmosphere. | しょくば Workplace or place of employment, referring to both the physical location and the social atmosphere. |
| 食費 しょくひ Food expenses or food budget. | しょくひ Food expenses or food budget. |
| 食品 しょくひん Food products or foodstuffs | しょくひん Food products or foodstuffs |
| 食欲 しょくよく Appetite; the physical desire to eat. | しょくよく Appetite; the physical desire to eat. |
| 食料 しょくりょう Food supplies, provisions, or rations | しょくりょう Food supplies, provisions, or rations |
| 食パン しょくパン Rectangular loaf of white sandwich bread | しょくパン Rectangular loaf of white sandwich bread |
| 初心者 しょしんしゃ A beginner or novice who is new to a skill or field. | しょしんしゃ A beginner or novice who is new to a skill or field. |
| 所長 しょちょう Director, chief, or head of an office | しょちょう Director, chief, or head of an office |
| 食器 しょっき Tableware, such as plates, bowls, and cutlery. | しょっき Tableware, such as plates, bowls, and cutlery. |
| しょっちゅう しょっちゅう Constantly, frequently, or all the time. | しょっちゅう Constantly, frequently, or all the time. |
| 書店 しょてん Bookstore (formal term often used in store names) | しょてん Bookstore (formal term often used in store names) |
| 書道 しょどう Traditional Japanese calligraphy | しょどう Traditional Japanese calligraphy |
| 所有 しょゆう Formal ownership or possession. | しょゆう Formal ownership or possession. |
| 所有者 しょゆうしゃ Formal or legal owner of registered assets like property or vehicles. | しょゆうしゃ Formal or legal owner of registered assets like property or vehicles. |
| 書類 しょるい Official documents, papers, or forms. | しょるい Official documents, papers, or forms. |
| しょんぼり しょんぼり Visibly dejected, dispirited, or crestfallen. | しょんぼり Visibly dejected, dispirited, or crestfallen. |
| 使用 しよう Formal use or application | しよう Formal use or application |
| しようとする しようとする To attempt to do something or be on the verge of happening | しようとする To attempt to do something or be on the verge of happening |
| 知らせ しらせ News, notice, or sign. | しらせ News, notice, or sign. |
| 知らないうちに しらないうちに Without realizing it; before one knows it | しらないうちに Without realizing it; before one knows it |
| 尻 しり Buttocks; the rear, bottom, or end of an object | しり Buttocks; the rear, bottom, or end of an object |
| 知り合い しりあい Acquaintance; a person known casually but not a close friend | しりあい Acquaintance; a person known casually but not a close friend |
| 知り合う しりあう to become acquainted; to get to know each other | しりあう to become acquainted; to get to know each other |
| 市立 しりつ, いちりつ Municipal or city-run establishment | しりつ, いちりつ Municipal or city-run establishment |
| 私立 しりつ, わたくしりつ Privately established institution | しりつ, わたくしりつ Privately established institution |
| 資料 しりょう Materials, documents, or data used for a specific purpose | しりょう Materials, documents, or data used for a specific purpose |
| 汁 しる, つゆ Soup, broth, dipping sauce, or natural food juices. | しる, つゆ Soup, broth, dipping sauce, or natural food juices. |
| 素人 しろうと Amateur, novice, or layman | しろうと Amateur, novice, or layman |
| 皺
(しわ)
しわ A wrinkle, crease, or fold found on surfaces like skin, fabric, or paper. | しわ A wrinkle, crease, or fold found on surfaces like skin, fabric, or paper. |
| 真 しん, ま Truth or reality; often serves as a prefix to indicate purity or exactness. | しん, ま Truth or reality; often serves as a prefix to indicate purity or exactness. |
| 進学 しんがく entering a higher level of education | しんがく entering a higher level of education |
| 神経 しんけい Biological nerves or mental sensitivity and strain. | しんけい Biological nerves or mental sensitivity and strain. |
| 真剣 しんけん Serious, earnest, or a real sword | しんけん Serious, earnest, or a real sword |
| 進行 しんこう Forward movement or progress of a process, event, or condition. | しんこう Forward movement or progress of a process, event, or condition. |
| 新婚 しんこん Newlyweds; the state of being recently married. | しんこん Newlyweds; the state of being recently married. |
| 診察 しんさつ Medical examination or consultation for an illness or injury. | しんさつ Medical examination or consultation for an illness or injury. |
| 寝室 しんしつ The standard term for a bedroom, commonly used in writing and floor plans. | しんしつ The standard term for a bedroom, commonly used in writing and floor plans. |
| 真実 しんじつ The objective truth or reality. | しんじつ The objective truth or reality. |
| 信者 しんじゃ Religious believer or die-hard fan | しんじゃ Religious believer or die-hard fan |
| 信じる しんじる To believe, trust, or have faith. | しんじる To believe, trust, or have faith. |
| 新人 しんじん A newcomer, rookie, or new hire in a group or organization. | しんじん A newcomer, rookie, or new hire in a group or organization. |
| 申請 しんせい Formal application or request for official approval | しんせい Formal application or request for official approval |
| 親戚 しんせき A relative or member of your extended family. | しんせき A relative or member of your extended family. |
| 新鮮 しんせん Fresh (of food or air); novel or vivid (of an experience) | しんせん Fresh (of food or air); novel or vivid (of an experience) |
| 心臓 しんぞう The physical heart organ, figurative nerve or guts, or the central core of a system. | しんぞう The physical heart organ, figurative nerve or guts, or the central core of a system. |
| 身長 しんちょう Height of a person | しんちょう Height of a person |
| 慎重 しんちょう Careful, cautious, and deliberate behavior. | しんちょう Careful, cautious, and deliberate behavior. |
| 真の しんの True, real, or genuine. | しんの True, real, or genuine. |
| 新品 しんぴん Brand-new item; unused product | しんぴん Brand-new item; unused product |
| 進歩 しんぽ Progress, advancement, or improvement. | しんぽ Progress, advancement, or improvement. |
| 深夜 しんや Late at night or the middle of the night, typically from midnight to dawn | しんや Late at night or the middle of the night, typically from midnight to dawn |
| 親友 しんゆう Best friend | しんゆう Best friend |
| 信用 しんよう Trust based on a proven track record or financial credit. | しんよう Trust based on a proven track record or financial credit. |
| 信頼 しんらい Reliance, trust, or confidence in someone’s character or ability. | しんらい Reliance, trust, or confidence in someone’s character or ability. |
| 心理 しんり State of mind, mentality, or psychology. | しんり State of mind, mentality, or psychology. |
| 森林 しんりん Formal or technical term for a large forest or woodlands | しんりん Formal or technical term for a large forest or woodlands |
| 進路 しんろ The path forward, referring to a physical route or one’s future academic and career direction. | しんろ The path forward, referring to a physical route or one’s future academic and career direction. |
| 神話 しんわ Myth, mythology, or a widely held false belief. | しんわ Myth, mythology, or a widely held false belief. |
| シャープ シャープ Sharp (smart, crisp), mechanical pencil, or the hash symbol. | シャープ Sharp (smart, crisp), mechanical pencil, or the hash symbol. |
| シュークリーム シュークリーム Cream puff; a light pastry filled with cream or custard. | シュークリーム Cream puff; a light pastry filled with cream or custard. |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 素 す, そ Plain, bare, or unaltered state. | す, そ Plain, bare, or unaltered state. |
| 酢 す Vinegar; a sour liquid used in cooking. | す Vinegar; a sour liquid used in cooking. |
| 西瓜
(スイカ)
すいか Watermelon | すいか Watermelon |
| 水蒸気 すいじょうき Water vapor or steam; the gaseous form of water. | すいじょうき Water vapor or steam; the gaseous form of water. |
| 水筒 すいとう Water bottle, flask, or thermos | すいとう Water bottle, flask, or thermos |
| 炊飯器 すいはんき electric rice cooker | すいはんき electric rice cooker |
| 水分 すいぶん Moisture, water content, or fluids. | すいぶん Moisture, water content, or fluids. |
| 水平 すいへい Horizontal, level, or parallel to the ground. | すいへい Horizontal, level, or parallel to the ground. |
| 睡眠 すいみん The formal noun for sleep, used to discuss quality, duration, or health. | すいみん The formal noun for sleep, used to discuss quality, duration, or health. |
| 数回 すうかい A few times; several times. | すうかい A few times; several times. |
| 数字 すうじ Numerical figures or digits | すうじ Numerical figures or digits |
| 数日 すうじつ A few days or several days | すうじつ A few days or several days |
| 数十 すうじゅう Several tens or dozens | すうじゅう Several tens or dozens |
| 数人 すうにん Several people; a few people | すうにん Several people; a few people |
| 末 すえ, まつ The end, conclusion, or final part of a period, process, or sequence. | すえ, まつ The end, conclusion, or final part of a period, process, or sequence. |
| 姿 すがた Figure, form, or appearance; the visible state or condition of a person or thing. | すがた Figure, form, or appearance; the visible state or condition of a person or thing. |
| 隙間 すきま A narrow physical gap or opening, or a brief interval of spare time. | すきま A narrow physical gap or opening, or a brief interval of spare time. |
| 救い すくい Rescue, salvation, or a saving grace. | すくい Rescue, salvation, or a saving grace. |
| 救う すくう To save or rescue from danger, hardship, or distress. | すくう To save or rescue from danger, hardship, or distress. |
| 少なくとも すくなくとも At least; specifies a minimum quantity or condition. | すくなくとも At least; specifies a minimum quantity or condition. |
| 優れる すぐれる To excel, be superior, or be outstanding. | すぐれる To excel, be superior, or be outstanding. |
| 少しも すこしも Not at all or not even a little bit; used with negative sentences. | すこしも Not at all or not even a little bit; used with negative sentences. |
| 過ごす すごす To spend time, pass time, or do something to excess. | すごす To spend time, pass time, or do something to excess. |
| 筋 すじ Muscle fiber, logical thread or plot, innate aptitude, or information source. | すじ Muscle fiber, logical thread or plot, innate aptitude, or information source. |
| 進む すすむ To move forward physically, make progress, or run fast (of a clock). | すすむ To move forward physically, make progress, or run fast (of a clock). |
| 勧め すすめ Recommendation or advice given by a specific person | すすめ Recommendation or advice given by a specific person |
| 勧める すすめる To recommend, advise, or politely offer something. | すすめる To recommend, advise, or politely offer something. |
| 進める すすめる To move something forward or advance a plan | すすめる To move something forward or advance a plan |
| すっかり すっかり Completely; totally; entirely (often describing a full change in state) | すっかり Completely; totally; entirely (often describing a full change in state) |
| すっきり すっきり Feeling refreshed and relieved, or appearing neat and uncluttered. | すっきり Feeling refreshed and relieved, or appearing neat and uncluttered. |
| すっと すっと Smooth, swift movement; feeling refreshed or relieved. | すっと Smooth, swift movement; feeling refreshed or relieved. |
| 素敵 すてき Wonderful, lovely, or great. | すてき Wonderful, lovely, or great. |
| 既に
(すでに)
すでに A formal term for ‘already.’ | すでに A formal term for ‘already.’ |
| 砂 すな Sand; the fine, granular material found on beaches and in deserts. | すな Sand; the fine, granular material found on beaches and in deserts. |
| 素直 すなお Being genuine, unaffected, and receptive to others. | すなお Being genuine, unaffected, and receptive to others. |
| 素晴らしい すばらしい Wonderful, magnificent, or splendid; describes something of extremely high quality, beauty, or merit. | すばらしい Wonderful, magnificent, or splendid; describes something of extremely high quality, beauty, or merit. |
| す可き
(すべき)
すべき “Should do” or “ought to do” indicating moral or social obligation. | すべき “Should do” or “ought to do” indicating moral or social obligation. |
| 全て
(すべて)
すべて Everything, all, or entirely; a slightly formal term used as a noun or adverb. | すべて Everything, all, or entirely; a slightly formal term used as a noun or adverb. |
| 滑る すべる To slide, slip, or glide physically; to fail an exam or have a joke fall flat | すべる To slide, slip, or glide physically; to fail an exam or have a joke fall flat |
| 済ます すます To finish a task or make do with a simpler alternative | すます To finish a task or make do with a simpler alternative |
| 済ませる すませる to finish a task or make do with something | すませる to finish a task or make do with something |
| 隅 すみ Inside corner or nook | すみ Inside corner or nook |
| 炭 すみ Charcoal. | すみ Charcoal. |
| 済む すむ To be finished, settled, or resolved; to be taken care of. | すむ To be finished, settled, or resolved; to be taken care of. |
| 澄む すむ To become clear, transparent, resonant, or serene. | すむ To become clear, transparent, resonant, or serene. |
| 相撲 すもう Sumo wrestling | すもう Sumo wrestling |
| すると すると Means ‘and then’ for an immediate result or ‘in that case’ for a logical conclusion. | すると Means ‘and then’ for an immediate result or ‘in that case’ for a logical conclusion. |
| するべき するべき Should or ought to do; implies a sense of duty or moral obligation. | するべき Should or ought to do; implies a sense of duty or moral obligation. |
| スタイル スタイル Physical figure or body shape; a style or manner. | スタイル Physical figure or body shape; a style or manner. |
| スタンド スタンド Gas station, desk lamp, support holder, or stadium seating | スタンド Gas station, desk lamp, support holder, or stadium seating |
| スナック スナック Packaged snack food like chips, or a small bar run by a hostess. | スナック Packaged snack food like chips, or a small bar run by a hostess. |
| スマート スマート Slim physique, stylish design, or smooth, skillful behavior | スマート Slim physique, stylish design, or smooth, skillful behavior |
| スラスラ
(すらすら)
スラスラ Smoothly, fluently, or effortlessly. | スラスラ Smoothly, fluently, or effortlessly. |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 性 せい, さが Refers to sex, gender, or inherent nature, and acts as a suffix equivalent to -ness or -ity. | せい, さが Refers to sex, gender, or inherent nature, and acts as a suffix equivalent to -ness or -ity. |
| 正 せい, しょう Correct, proper, main, or positive | せい, しょう Correct, proper, main, or positive |
| 所為
(せい)
せい Fault or cause of a negative outcome | せい Fault or cause of a negative outcome |
| 制 せい System, regulation, or control. | せい System, regulation, or control. |
| 精一杯 せいいっぱい With all one’s might; to the best of one’s ability | せいいっぱい With all one’s might; to the best of one’s ability |
| 正解 せいかい Correct answer or the right decision | せいかい Correct answer or the right decision |
| 性格 せいかく Personality, character, or the fundamental nature of something | せいかく Personality, character, or the fundamental nature of something |
| 正確 せいかく Accurate, precise, or factually correct. | せいかく Accurate, precise, or factually correct. |
| 世紀 せいき Century, era, or the greatest of the century. | せいき Century, era, or the greatest of the century. |
| 請求 せいきゅう Billing, claiming payment, or a formal request for materials. | せいきゅう Billing, claiming payment, or a formal request for materials. |
| 請求書 せいきゅうしょ Invoice or bill requesting payment | せいきゅうしょ Invoice or bill requesting payment |
| 清潔 せいけつ Clean, sanitary, and hygienic | せいけつ Clean, sanitary, and hygienic |
| 制限 せいげん An imposed restriction, limit, or constraint. | せいげん An imposed restriction, limit, or constraint. |
| 成功 せいこう Success or the act of succeeding. | せいこう Success or the act of succeeding. |
| 制作 せいさく Production or creation of artistic works or media | せいさく Production or creation of artistic works or media |
| 製作 せいさく Manufacturing of goods or production of media. | せいさく Manufacturing of goods or production of media. |
| 政策 せいさく Political measures or government policy | せいさく Political measures or government policy |
| 生産 せいさん Large-scale production or manufacturing of goods or crops | せいさん Large-scale production or manufacturing of goods or crops |
| 精算 せいさん Settling an exact amount, fare adjustment, or expense reimbursement | せいさん Settling an exact amount, fare adjustment, or expense reimbursement |
| 静止 せいし A state of complete stillness or being stationary. | せいし A state of complete stillness or being stationary. |
| 正式 せいしき Official, formal, or legitimate. | せいしき Official, formal, or legitimate. |
| 性質 せいしつ Inherent nature or intrinsic property | せいしつ Inherent nature or intrinsic property |
| 青春 せいしゅん Youth, adolescence, or the springtime of life. | せいしゅん Youth, adolescence, or the springtime of life. |
| 精神 せいしん Mind, spirit, or ethos | せいしん Mind, spirit, or ethos |
| 精神的 せいしんてき Mental, emotional, or spiritual | せいしんてき Mental, emotional, or spiritual |
| 政治 せいじ Politics or government affairs. | せいじ Politics or government affairs. |
| 政治家 せいじか Politician; a person professionally engaged in politics or government. | せいじか Politician; a person professionally engaged in politics or government. |
| 正常 せいじょう Normal, correct, or proper functioning. | せいじょう Normal, correct, or proper functioning. |
| 成績 せいせき Grades, test scores, or business performance results | せいせき Grades, test scores, or business performance results |
| 精々
(せいぜい)
せいぜい At most, at best, or to the fullest extent possible | せいぜい At most, at best, or to the fullest extent possible |
| 清掃 せいそう Formal, professional, or large-scale cleaning. | せいそう Formal, professional, or large-scale cleaning. |
| 製造 せいぞう Large-scale industrial manufacturing or production. | せいぞう Large-scale industrial manufacturing or production. |
| 生存 せいぞん Survival or the state of continuing to live. | せいぞん Survival or the state of continuing to live. |
| 成長 せいちょう Growth, development, or maturation of living things, skills, or organizations | せいちょう Growth, development, or maturation of living things, skills, or organizations |
| 制度 せいど Formal system or institution | せいど Formal system or institution |
| 青年 せいねん Youth or young man | せいねん Youth or young man |
| 正反対 せいはんたい The exact or polar opposite. | せいはんたい The exact or polar opposite. |
| 製品 せいひん Manufactured product | せいひん Manufactured product |
| 整備 せいび maintenance, servicing, or establishing infrastructure | せいび maintenance, servicing, or establishing infrastructure |
| 政府 せいふ Government or administration. | せいふ Government or administration. |
| 制服 せいふく Uniform (standardized clothing). | せいふく Uniform (standardized clothing). |
| 生物 せいぶつ, なまもの Living organism, biology, or raw food. | せいぶつ, なまもの Living organism, biology, or raw food. |
| 性別 せいべつ Formal term for sex or gender, typically used on documents and forms. | せいべつ Formal term for sex or gender, typically used on documents and forms. |
| 生命 せいめい Life as a formal concept, biological existence, or professional lifespan. | せいめい Life as a formal concept, biological existence, or professional lifespan. |
| 正門 せいもん The main gate or principal entrance of an institution. | せいもん The main gate or principal entrance of an institution. |
| 西洋 せいよう The West, referring to the countries and cultures of Europe and the Americas. | せいよう The West, referring to the countries and cultures of Europe and the Americas. |
| 整理 せいり Organizing, sorting, or discarding items to establish order. | せいり Organizing, sorting, or discarding items to establish order. |
| 成立 せいりつ Establishment, conclusion of an agreement, or logical validity. | せいりつ Establishment, conclusion of an agreement, or logical validity. |
| 西暦 せいれき Western calendar / Gregorian calendar (AD/CE) | せいれき Western calendar / Gregorian calendar (AD/CE) |
| 整列 せいれつ Standing in a row, lining up, or arranging in order. | せいれつ Standing in a row, lining up, or arranging in order. |
| 背負う せおう, しょう To carry on one’s back or bear a heavy burden like responsibility or debt. | せおう, しょう To carry on one’s back or bear a heavy burden like responsibility or debt. |
| 席 せき Seat, designated place, or formal position. | せき Seat, designated place, or formal position. |
| 責任 せきにん Responsibility, duty, or accountability for a task or outcome. | せきにん Responsibility, duty, or accountability for a task or outcome. |
| 責任者 せきにんしゃ Person in charge or manager responsible for a specific area or task. | せきにんしゃ Person in charge or manager responsible for a specific area or task. |
| 石油 せきゆ Petroleum or crude oil. | せきゆ Petroleum or crude oil. |
| 世間 せけん The public, society, and the world of human affairs. | せけん The public, society, and the world of human affairs. |
| せず せず Without doing; a formal negative connector for the verb ‘to do’. | せず Without doing; a formal negative connector for the verb ‘to do’. |
| せずに せずに Without doing; formal grammar pattern indicating an action performed without another. | せずに Without doing; formal grammar pattern indicating an action performed without another. |
| 世代 せだい Generation; a specific age group or stage of product development. | せだい Generation; a specific age group or stage of product development. |
| 折角
(せっかく)
せっかく Special effort taken or a precious opportunity not to be wasted | せっかく Special effort taken or a precious opportunity not to be wasted |
| 説教 せっきょう A religious sermon or a scolding lecture. | せっきょう A religious sermon or a scolding lecture. |
| 積極的 せっきょくてき Proactive, assertive, and willing to take the initiative. | せっきょくてき Proactive, assertive, and willing to take the initiative. |
| 設計 せっけい Technical design, plan, or blueprint. | せっけい Technical design, plan, or blueprint. |
| 設定 せってい Configuration, settings, or established premise. | せってい Configuration, settings, or established premise. |
| 説得 せっとく Persuasion or the act of convincing someone through reasoning | せっとく Persuasion or the act of convincing someone through reasoning |
| 説 せつ A theory, view, or rumor regarding a specific matter | せつ A theory, view, or rumor regarding a specific matter |
| 接続 せつぞく Connection or link, used for systems, technology, or transportation. | せつぞく Connection or link, used for systems, technology, or transportation. |
| 設備 せつび Built-in equipment, facilities, or systems installed in a location. | せつび Built-in equipment, facilities, or systems installed in a location. |
| 説明書 せつめいしょ Instruction manual or written guide | せつめいしょ Instruction manual or written guide |
| 節約 せつやく Economizing or cutting back on resources like money, time, or energy. | せつやく Economizing or cutting back on resources like money, time, or energy. |
| 設立 せつりつ Formal establishment or founding of an organization or institution. | せつりつ Formal establishment or founding of an organization or institution. |
| 背骨 せぼね Spine; backbone (literal anatomy or figurative support) | せぼね Spine; backbone (literal anatomy or figurative support) |
| せめて せめて At least; expressing a subjective wish for the bare minimum. | せめて At least; expressing a subjective wish for the bare minimum. |
| 責める せめる To blame or criticize someone for wrongdoing, or to pressure them to act. | せめる To blame or criticize someone for wrongdoing, or to pressure them to act. |
| 攻める せめる To attack or go on the offensive. | せめる To attack or go on the offensive. |
| 世話 せわ Looking after, caring for, or the assistance received from others. | せわ Looking after, caring for, or the assistance received from others. |
| 選挙 せんきょ Election; to elect | せんきょ Election; to elect |
| 宣言 せんげん A formal declaration or proclamation of a decision, intention, or official state. | せんげん A formal declaration or proclamation of a decision, intention, or official state. |
| 専攻 せんこう academic major or special field of study | せんこう academic major or special field of study |
| 戦後 せんご Post-war period, specifically following World War II | せんご Post-war period, specifically following World War II |
| 洗剤 せんざい Detergent or cleaning agent | せんざい Detergent or cleaning agent |
| 選手 せんしゅ Athlete or sports player | せんしゅ Athlete or sports player |
| 戦場 せんじょう Battlefield or site of intense struggle | せんじょう Battlefield or site of intense struggle |
| 戦争 せんそう War; military conflict or intense metaphorical struggle. | せんそう War; military conflict or intense metaphorical struggle. |
| 先祖 せんぞ ancestor or family members from previous generations | せんぞ ancestor or family members from previous generations |
| 選択 せんたく Selection or choice from a set of options | せんたく Selection or choice from a set of options |
| 宣伝 せんでん Publicity, advertising, or promotion. | せんでん Publicity, advertising, or promotion. |
| 先頭 せんとう The very front, head, or lead position. | せんとう The very front, head, or lead position. |
| 戦闘 せんとう Battle, combat, or physical confrontation. | せんとう Battle, combat, or physical confrontation. |
| 洗面所 せんめんじょ Washroom area equipped with a sink and mirror for grooming. | せんめんじょ Washroom area equipped with a sink and mirror for grooming. |
| 専門 せんもん Specialty, academic major, or area of professional expertise | せんもん Specialty, academic major, or area of professional expertise |
| 専門家 せんもんか Expert or specialist | せんもんか Expert or specialist |
| 専門的 せんもんてき Specialized, technical, or requiring expert knowledge. | せんもんてき Specialized, technical, or requiring expert knowledge. |
| 専用 せんよう Exclusive use; dedicated solely to. | せんよう Exclusive use; dedicated solely to. |
| 線路 せんろ Physical railway tracks or rails | せんろ Physical railway tracks or rails |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 総 そう Prefix indicating the total, entire amount or general, head rank. | そう Prefix indicating the total, entire amount or general, head rank. |
| 沿う そう Run along a physical path or act in accordance with a plan. | そう Run along a physical path or act in accordance with a plan. |
| そう言えば
(そういえば)
そういえば That reminds me; come to think of it; speaking of which. | そういえば That reminds me; come to think of it; speaking of which. |
| そう言った
(そういった)
そういった That kind of, such, or literally ‘said that’. | そういった That kind of, such, or literally ‘said that’. |
| 送金 そうきん Sending money; remittance | そうきん Sending money; remittance |
| 送迎 そうげい Pick-up and drop-off service | そうげい Pick-up and drop-off service |
| 草原 そうげん, くさはら A grassy plain, meadow, or prairie | そうげん, くさはら A grassy plain, meadow, or prairie |
| 倉庫 そうこ A building used for storage, such as a warehouse or shed. | そうこ A building used for storage, such as a warehouse or shed. |
| 総合的 そうごうてき Comprehensive or overall; considering all aspects together as a whole. | そうごうてき Comprehensive or overall; considering all aspects together as a whole. |
| 操作 そうさ Operating a machine or device; manipulating a situation or person | そうさ Operating a machine or device; manipulating a situation or person |
| 葬式 そうしき A funeral ceremony | そうしき A funeral ceremony |
| 然うした
(そうした)
そうした A formal term meaning such or that kind of. | そうした A formal term meaning such or that kind of. |
| 想像 そうぞう Imagination or the act of forming a mental image. | そうぞう Imagination or the act of forming a mental image. |
| 創造 そうぞう Creation of something new from nothing | そうぞう Creation of something new from nothing |
| 早退 そうたい leaving work or school early | そうたい leaving work or school early |
| 早朝 そうちょう early morning | そうちょう early morning |
| そうなると そうなると In that case; if that happens | そうなると In that case; if that happens |
| 送別会 そうべつかい Farewell party | そうべつかい Farewell party |
| 総理大臣 そうりだいじん Prime Minister (full official title) | そうりだいじん Prime Minister (full official title) |
| 創立 そうりつ founding or establishment of an institution | そうりつ founding or establishment of an institution |
| 送料 そうりょう Postage or shipping fee. | そうりょう Postage or shipping fee. |
| 添える そえる To add or attach a supplementary item, such as a garnish, note, or comment. | そえる To add or attach a supplementary item, such as a garnish, note, or comment. |
| 速度 そくど Speed, rate, or velocity. | そくど Speed, rate, or velocity. |
| 底 そこ The bottom, base, or sole of an object, or the lowest point of a situation. | そこ The bottom, base, or sole of an object, or the lowest point of a situation. |
| 其処で
(そこで)
そこで So; therefore; on that note. | そこで So; therefore; on that note. |
| そこら辺 そこらへん Somewhere around there or approximately that much | そこらへん Somewhere around there or approximately that much |
| 組織 そしき Organization, structure, or biological tissue. | そしき Organization, structure, or biological tissue. |
| 祖先 そせん Ancestor; often used in a broad, historical, or biological sense. | そせん Ancestor; often used in a broad, historical, or biological sense. |
| 注ぐ そそぐ, つぐ To pour liquid or light, devote energy, or serve a drink. | そそぐ, つぐ To pour liquid or light, devote energy, or serve a drink. |
| そそっかしい そそっかしい Scatterbrained, hasty, or clumsy. | そそっかしい Scatterbrained, hasty, or clumsy. |
| 育ち そだち Upbringing, breeding, or growth | そだち Upbringing, breeding, or growth |
| 育つ そだつ To grow up, be raised, or develop | そだつ To grow up, be raised, or develop |
| 育てる そだてる To raise living things or to train and develop skills. | そだてる To raise living things or to train and develop skills. |
| そっくり そっくり Exactly alike in appearance, or entirely without alteration. | そっくり Exactly alike in appearance, or entirely without alteration. |
| 沿って そって Along a path or in accordance with a plan | そって Along a path or in accordance with a plan |
| そっと そっと Gently, quietly, or secretly; to leave alone or undisturbed | そっと Gently, quietly, or secretly; to leave alone or undisturbed |
| 外側 そとがわ, がいそく The exterior, outer surface, or outside part of an object | そとがわ, がいそく The exterior, outer surface, or outside part of an object |
| 備え そなえ Preparations or provisions made ready for future needs or emergencies | そなえ Preparations or provisions made ready for future needs or emergencies |
| 備える そなえる To prepare for an event or be equipped with a feature or quality. | そなえる To prepare for an event or be equipped with a feature or quality. |
| 供える そなえる To offer something to a deity, spirit, or the deceased. | そなえる To offer something to a deity, spirit, or the deceased. |
| その上 そのうえ On top of that; furthermore. | そのうえ On top of that; furthermore. |
| その内
(そのうち)
そのうち Eventually, soon, or among them | そのうち Eventually, soon, or among them |
| その内に
(そのうちに)
そのうちに Sooner or later, eventually, or one of these days. | そのうちに Sooner or later, eventually, or one of these days. |
| その辺 そのへん Around there, or so, or regarding that matter. | そのへん Around there, or so, or regarding that matter. |
| その他 そのほか, そのた Others, the rest, or in addition. | そのほか, そのた Others, the rest, or in addition. |
| 其のまま
(そのまま)
そのまま, そのまんま As is, unchanged, or just like that | そのまま, そのまんま As is, unchanged, or just like that |
| その物
(そのもの)
そのもの The very thing itself; the perfect embodiment of a quality. | そのもの The very thing itself; the perfect embodiment of a quality. |
| その様
(そのよう)
そのよう like that; that kind of; in that way | そのよう like that; that kind of; in that way |
| 祖父母 そふぼ Grandparents, especially in formal or written contexts. | そふぼ Grandparents, especially in formal or written contexts. |
| 粗末 そまつ Crude, shabby quality, or treated with neglect and disrespect | そまつ Crude, shabby quality, or treated with neglect and disrespect |
| 其れ其れ
(それぞれ)
それぞれ Each; respectively; individually. | それぞれ Each; respectively; individually. |
| それっぽい それっぽい Having the look of that thing; plausible or convincing. | それっぽい Having the look of that thing; plausible or convincing. |
| 其れでも
(それでも)
それでも But still; even so; nevertheless. | それでも But still; even so; nevertheless. |
| 其れとも
(それとも)
それとも Or (used to connect two questions) | それとも Or (used to connect two questions) |
| それにしても それにしても Meaning ‘even so’ or ‘nevertheless,’ expressing strong surprise or emotion despite acknowledging a preceding fact. | それにしても Meaning ‘even so’ or ‘nevertheless,’ expressing strong surprise or emotion despite acknowledging a preceding fact. |
| それ程
(それほど)
それほど To that extent or degree; often used with negatives to mean ‘not that much’. | それほど To that extent or degree; often used with negatives to mean ‘not that much’. |
| それより それより Apart from that, more importantly, or rather than that | それより Apart from that, more importantly, or rather than that |
| それ等
(それら)
それら Those; they (referring to multiple things or ideas) | それら Those; they (referring to multiple things or ideas) |
| 揃う そろう To become complete, gathered, or uniform | そろう To become complete, gathered, or uniform |
| 揃える そろえる To complete a set, align neatly, or make uniform. | そろえる To complete a set, align neatly, or make uniform. |
| そろそろ そろそろ Soon, it is about time; slowly or gingerly | そろそろ Soon, it is about time; slowly or gingerly |
| そわそわ そわそわ Restless, fidgety, and unable to settle down due to nervousness or excitement. | そわそわ Restless, fidgety, and unable to settle down due to nervousness or excitement. |
| 損 そん Loss, disadvantage, or getting a bad deal. | そん Loss, disadvantage, or getting a bad deal. |
| 損害 そんがい Damage, loss, or harm, typically financial or material in nature | そんがい Damage, loss, or harm, typically financial or material in nature |
| 尊敬 そんけい Respect or admiration for someone’s character, skills, or achievements. | そんけい Respect or admiration for someone’s character, skills, or achievements. |
| 存在 そんざい Formal existence or presence. | そんざい Formal existence or presence. |
| 損する そんする To suffer a loss, be at a disadvantage, or miss out. | そんする To suffer a loss, be at a disadvantage, or miss out. |
| 尊重 そんちょう Respect for abstract concepts like opinions, rights, or decisions, rather than people. | そんちょう Respect for abstract concepts like opinions, rights, or decisions, rather than people. |
| そんな中 そんななか In that situation; amidst those circumstances | そんななか In that situation; amidst those circumstances |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 在学 ざいがく Being officially enrolled in or attending a school. | ざいがく Being officially enrolled in or attending a school. |
| 在庫 ざいこ Inventory or stock. | ざいこ Inventory or stock. |
| 財産 ざいさん Property, assets, or fortune, encompassing both material wealth and intangible treasures. | ざいさん Property, assets, or fortune, encompassing both material wealth and intangible treasures. |
| 材料 ざいりょう Ingredients, materials, or data used to create something | ざいりょう Ingredients, materials, or data used to create something |
| 座席 ざせき A specific or assigned seat, such as in a vehicle or theater. | ざせき A specific or assigned seat, such as in a vehicle or theater. |
| ざっと ざっと Roughly, approximately, or briefly. | ざっと Roughly, approximately, or briefly. |
| 残業 ざんぎょう Overtime work | ざんぎょう Overtime work |
| 残酷 ざんこく Extreme cruelty, brutality, or lack of mercy. | ざんこく Extreme cruelty, brutality, or lack of mercy. |
| ザラザラ ザラザラ Rough, coarse, or gritty feeling, like sandpaper. | ザラザラ Rough, coarse, or gritty feeling, like sandpaper. |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 次回 じかい The next time or occasion, often regarding scheduled events. | じかい The next time or occasion, often regarding scheduled events. |
| 時間帯 じかんたい Specific time slot, period, or geographical time zone. | じかんたい Specific time slot, period, or geographical time zone. |
| 時期 じき Time period, season, or phase | じき Time period, season, or phase |
| 直 じき, ちょく Directness in action, physical proximity, or happening very soon. | じき, ちょく Directness in action, physical proximity, or happening very soon. |
| 時給 じきゅう Hourly wage or pay | じきゅう Hourly wage or pay |
| 事業 じぎょう A large-scale enterprise, project, or undertaking, covering both commercial businesses and public works. | じぎょう A large-scale enterprise, project, or undertaking, covering both commercial businesses and public works. |
| 事件 じけん A serious incident, crime, or case. | じけん A serious incident, crime, or case. |
| 自己 じこ Self; primarily a formal prefix found in compound words. | じこ Self; primarily a formal prefix found in compound words. |
| 事項 じこう Formal item or matter; point in a list or document | じこう Formal item or matter; point in a list or document |
| 時刻 じこく A precise point in time or scheduled time. | じこく A precise point in time or scheduled time. |
| 地獄 じごく Hell, the underworld, or a nightmarish situation. | じごく Hell, the underworld, or a nightmarish situation. |
| 自殺 じさつ Suicide or to commit suicide. | じさつ Suicide or to commit suicide. |
| 自習 じしゅう Self-study or a school study hall. | じしゅう Self-study or a school study hall. |
| 自信 じしん Self-confidence or belief in one’s own abilities. | じしん Self-confidence or belief in one’s own abilities. |
| 自身 じしん Self, itself, or one’s own; often acts as a suffix to emphasize a specific person or thing. | じしん Self, itself, or one’s own; often acts as a suffix to emphasize a specific person or thing. |
| 事実 じじつ Fact or reality | じじつ Fact or reality |
| 次女 じじょ Second daughter | じじょ Second daughter |
| 事情 じじょう Circumstances, reasons, or the background situation. | じじょう Circumstances, reasons, or the background situation. |
| 事前 じぜん in advance; beforehand; prior | じぜん in advance; beforehand; prior |
| 時速 じそく Speed per hour | じそく Speed per hour |
| 自宅 じたく One’s own home or private residence | じたく One’s own home or private residence |
| 時代 じだい A historical period, era, or the general times. | じだい A historical period, era, or the general times. |
| 実験 じっけん Experiment or practical trial. | じっけん Experiment or practical trial. |
| 実行 じっこう Execution, implementation, or running a computer program. | じっこう Execution, implementation, or running a computer program. |
| 実際 じっさい Reality, the actual state of affairs, or actually. | じっさい Reality, the actual state of affairs, or actually. |
| 実施 じっし Formal implementation or execution of a plan, policy, or official event. | じっし Formal implementation or execution of a plan, policy, or official event. |
| 実習 じっしゅう Practical training, internship, or hands-on practice in a real-world setting. | じっしゅう Practical training, internship, or hands-on practice in a real-world setting. |
| 凝乎と
(じっと)
じっと Motionlessly, intently, or patiently enduring | じっと Motionlessly, intently, or patiently enduring |
| 実 じつ, み Truth, reality, fruit, or contents. | じつ, み Truth, reality, fruit, or contents. |
| 実現 じつげん Making a dream, plan, or goal a reality | じつげん Making a dream, plan, or goal a reality |
| 実に じつに Truly or indeed; a formal adverb emphasizing degree or reality. | じつに Truly or indeed; a formal adverb emphasizing degree or reality. |
| 実物 じつぶつ The real thing or actual physical object | じつぶつ The real thing or actual physical object |
| 実用 じつよう Practical use, utility, or real-world application. | じつよう Practical use, utility, or real-world application. |
| 実用的 じつようてき Practical, functional, or designed for actual use. | じつようてき Practical, functional, or designed for actual use. |
| 実力 じつりょく True ability, actual competence, or the use of physical force. | じつりょく True ability, actual competence, or the use of physical force. |
| 実話 じつわ A true story or account based on actual events. | じつわ A true story or account based on actual events. |
| 辞典 じてん Dictionary focusing on words and definitions | じてん Dictionary focusing on words and definitions |
| 時点 じてん specific point in time; moment; as of | じてん specific point in time; moment; as of |
| 自動 じどう Automatic or self-operating. | じどう Automatic or self-operating. |
| 児童 じどう Children or juveniles in an official or formal context | じどう Children or juveniles in an official or formal context |
| 次男 じなん Second son | じなん Second son |
| 自慢 じまん Pride, boasting, or something one is proud of. | じまん Pride, boasting, or something one is proud of. |
| 事務所 じむしょ Office or agency for professional or administrative work | じむしょ Office or agency for professional or administrative work |
| じめじめ じめじめ Unpleasantly damp, humid, or clammy; gloomy or melancholy. | じめじめ Unpleasantly damp, humid, or clammy; gloomy or melancholy. |
| 地面 じめん Ground or earth’s surface | じめん Ground or earth’s surface |
| 地元 じもと One’s local area or hometown | じもと One’s local area or hometown |
| 弱点 じゃくてん A specific weak point, vulnerability, or flaw. | じゃくてん A specific weak point, vulnerability, or flaw. |
| じゃ無いか
(じゃないか)
じゃないか Right?; isn’t it?; emphatic confirmation or suggestion | じゃないか Right?; isn’t it?; emphatic confirmation or suggestion |
| 邪魔 じゃま A hindrance, nuisance, or the act of getting in the way. | じゃま A hindrance, nuisance, or the act of getting in the way. |
| 住居 じゅうきょ Formal term for a residence or dwelling. | じゅうきょ Formal term for a residence or dwelling. |
| 重視 じゅうし Regard as important; attach importance to; prioritize | じゅうし Regard as important; attach importance to; prioritize |
| 重傷 じゅうしょう Serious injury | じゅうしょう Serious injury |
| 渋滞 じゅうたい Traffic jam; congestion or backlog. | じゅうたい Traffic jam; congestion or backlog. |
| 重大 じゅうだい Serious, grave, or critical, often implying heavy or far-reaching consequences. | じゅうだい Serious, grave, or critical, often implying heavy or far-reaching consequences. |
| 住民 じゅうみん Residents or inhabitants of a specific area, typically referred to in an official or administrative context. | じゅうみん Residents or inhabitants of a specific area, typically referred to in an official or administrative context. |
| 重要 じゅうよう Objectively important, essential, or crucial. | じゅうよう Objectively important, essential, or crucial. |
| 重量 じゅうりょう Weight, typically used in formal, technical, or official contexts. | じゅうりょう Weight, typically used in formal, technical, or official contexts. |
| 重力 じゅうりょく Gravity; the natural force pulling objects toward the earth | じゅうりょく Gravity; the natural force pulling objects toward the earth |
| 受験 じゅけん Taking an entrance exam | じゅけん Taking an entrance exam |
| 受信 じゅしん receiving electronic signals, emails, or transmissions | じゅしん receiving electronic signals, emails, or transmissions |
| 術 じゅつ Technique, art, method, or means. | じゅつ Technique, art, method, or means. |
| 寿命 じゅみょう lifespan or service life | じゅみょう lifespan or service life |
| 順 じゅん Order, sequence, or turn. | じゅん Order, sequence, or turn. |
| 純 じゅん Pure, unmixed, genuine, or innocent. | じゅん Pure, unmixed, genuine, or innocent. |
| 順々に じゅんじゅんに In order; one by one; in sequence. | じゅんじゅんに In order; one by one; in sequence. |
| 順序 じゅんじょ Logical order or correct sequence of steps | じゅんじょ Logical order or correct sequence of steps |
| 純粋 じゅんすい Pure, unmixed state or innocent, sincere character. | じゅんすい Pure, unmixed state or innocent, sincere character. |
| 順調 じゅんちょう Going smoothly, favorably, or as planned. | じゅんちょう Going smoothly, favorably, or as planned. |
| 順に じゅんに In order, sequentially, or turn by turn | じゅんに In order, sequentially, or turn by turn |
| 順番 じゅんばん Sequential order or turn | じゅんばん Sequential order or turn |
| 自由 じゆう Freedom, liberty, or the state of being unrestricted. | じゆう Freedom, liberty, or the state of being unrestricted. |
| 状 じょう Suffix denoting shape, condition, or a formal document | じょう Suffix denoting shape, condition, or a formal document |
| 情 じょう Emotion, sympathy, or the actual state of affairs. | じょう Emotion, sympathy, or the actual state of affairs. |
| 上映 じょうえい Screening or showing of a film | じょうえい Screening or showing of a film |
| 上演 じょうえん Staging or performing a play, musical, or opera | じょうえん Staging or performing a play, musical, or opera |
| 上記 じょうき The above-mentioned or preceding text | じょうき The above-mentioned or preceding text |
| 蒸気 じょうき Steam or vapor. | じょうき Steam or vapor. |
| 乗客 じょうきゃく Passenger on a vehicle such as a train, bus, or plane | じょうきゃく Passenger on a vehicle such as a train, bus, or plane |
| 上級 じょうきゅう Advanced level or high grade | じょうきゅう Advanced level or high grade |
| 状況 じょうきょう Situation, circumstances, or state of affairs. | じょうきょう Situation, circumstances, or state of affairs. |
| 上京 じょうきょう Moving to Tokyo | じょうきょう Moving to Tokyo |
| 上空 じょうくう The sky or airspace directly above a specific location | じょうくう The sky or airspace directly above a specific location |
| 条件 じょうけん A specific condition, requirement, or term. | じょうけん A specific condition, requirement, or term. |
| 上下 じょうげ, うえした Top and bottom, vertical fluctuation, or social hierarchy | じょうげ, うえした Top and bottom, vertical fluctuation, or social hierarchy |
| 上司 じょうし Workplace superior or boss | じょうし Workplace superior or boss |
| 常識 じょうしき Common sense, general knowledge, or accepted social norms. | じょうしき Common sense, general knowledge, or accepted social norms. |
| 乗車 じょうしゃ The formal act of boarding a vehicle, such as a train or bus. | じょうしゃ The formal act of boarding a vehicle, such as a train or bus. |
| 乗車券 じょうしゃけん Basic fare ticket for boarding a train or bus. | じょうしゃけん Basic fare ticket for boarding a train or bus. |
| 上昇 じょうしょう Rising, ascending, or increasing in level, value, or altitude | じょうしょう Rising, ascending, or increasing in level, value, or altitude |
| 上旬 じょうじゅん The first ten days of a month. | じょうじゅん The first ten days of a month. |
| 状態 じょうたい Current state, condition, or status. | じょうたい Current state, condition, or status. |
| 冗談 じょうだん A joke, jest, or remark not meant to be taken seriously. | じょうだん A joke, jest, or remark not meant to be taken seriously. |
| 上等 じょうとう Superior quality, more than enough, or a defiant ‘bring it on’. | じょうとう Superior quality, more than enough, or a defiant ‘bring it on’. |
| 情熱 じょうねつ Passion; zeal; intense enthusiasm. | じょうねつ Passion; zeal; intense enthusiasm. |
| 上品 じょうひん Elegant, refined, or sophisticated in style or manner. | じょうひん Elegant, refined, or sophisticated in style or manner. |
| 情報 じょうほう Information, data, news, or intelligence. | じょうほう Information, data, news, or intelligence. |
| 乗務員 じょうむいん Crew member or transport staff | じょうむいん Crew member or transport staff |
| 条約 じょうやく A formal treaty or pact between nations. | じょうやく A formal treaty or pact between nations. |
| 乗用車 じょうようしゃ Passenger car | じょうようしゃ Passenger car |
| 女王 じょおう, じょうおう Female monarch or dominant woman in a field | じょおう, じょうおう Female monarch or dominant woman in a field |
| 女子 じょし Girls or females, used primarily as a gender classification or label in official contexts like schools and sports. | じょし Girls or females, used primarily as a gender classification or label in official contexts like schools and sports. |
| 助詞 じょし A grammatical particle that indicates the function of a word in a sentence. | じょし A grammatical particle that indicates the function of a word in a sentence. |
| 助手 じょしゅ A professional assistant or helper, often in academic, medical, or technical fields. | じょしゅ A professional assistant or helper, often in academic, medical, or technical fields. |
| 徐々 じょじょ Gradually or little by little, proceeding slowly and steadily. | じょじょ Gradually or little by little, proceeding slowly and steadily. |
| 徐々に じょじょに Gradually; little by little. | じょじょに Gradually; little by little. |
| 女性 じょせい Formal or standard word for woman or female | じょせい Formal or standard word for woman or female |
| 女優 じょゆう Actress | じょゆう Actress |
| 自立 じりつ Independence; standing on one’s own financially or physically. | じりつ Independence; standing on one’s own financially or physically. |
| 人権 じんけん Human rights | じんけん Human rights |
| 人工 じんこう Artificial, man-made, or created by human effort. | じんこう Artificial, man-made, or created by human effort. |
| 人種 じんしゅ Race; a classification of people based on shared physical traits and ancestry. | じんしゅ Race; a classification of people based on shared physical traits and ancestry. |
| 人生 じんせい Human life, existence, or the span of one’s life journey. | じんせい Human life, existence, or the span of one’s life journey. |
| 人物 じんぶつ A specific person, figure, character, or personality. | じんぶつ A specific person, figure, character, or personality. |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 図 ず A diagram, chart, or explanatory figure. | ず A diagram, chart, or explanatory figure. |
| 随分
(ずいぶん)
ずいぶん Extremely or considerably; indicates a degree surpassing expectations | ずいぶん Extremely or considerably; indicates a degree surpassing expectations |
| 図々しい ずうずうしい Shamelessly brazen, impudent, or audacious. | ずうずうしい Shamelessly brazen, impudent, or audacious. |
| ズキズキ ずきずき Throbbing or pulsating pain | ずきずき Throbbing or pulsating pain |
| 頭痛 ずつう A headache. | ずつう A headache. |
| 狡い
(ずるい)
ずるい Unfair, sneaky, or sly. | ずるい Unfair, sneaky, or sly. |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 税金 ぜいきん Tax; money paid to the government | ぜいきん Tax; money paid to the government |
| 税込み ぜいこみ Tax included | ぜいこみ Tax included |
| 贅沢 ぜいたく Luxury, extravagance, or asking for more than is reasonable. | ぜいたく Luxury, extravagance, or asking for more than is reasonable. |
| 絶好 ぜっこう Perfect, ideal, or best possible conditions | ぜっこう Perfect, ideal, or best possible conditions |
| 絶対 ぜったい Absolute, unconditional, or definitely. | ぜったい Absolute, unconditional, or definitely. |
| 絶対的 ぜったいてき Describes something that is absolute, unconditional, and not relative to anything else. | ぜったいてき Describes something that is absolute, unconditional, and not relative to anything else. |
| 絶対に ぜったいに Absolutely, definitely, or never. | ぜったいに Absolutely, definitely, or never. |
| 全 ぜん A prefix denoting the whole, entire, or all of something. | ぜん A prefix denoting the whole, entire, or all of something. |
| 全員 ぜんいん All members; everyone in a specific group | ぜんいん All members; everyone in a specific group |
| 前回 ぜんかい The previous time; the last time. | ぜんかい The previous time; the last time. |
| 全額 ぜんがく The full amount or total sum of money | ぜんがく The full amount or total sum of money |
| 前期 ぜんき First term or first half of a period, such as a semester or fiscal year. | ぜんき First term or first half of a period, such as a semester or fiscal year. |
| 全国 ぜんこく The whole country; nationwide. | ぜんこく The whole country; nationwide. |
| 前後 ぜんご Front and back, before and after, or approximately. | ぜんご Front and back, before and after, or approximately. |
| 前者 ぜんしゃ The former; the first of two items mentioned. | ぜんしゃ The former; the first of two items mentioned. |
| 全身 ぜんしん The entire body; full-length. | ぜんしん The entire body; full-length. |
| 前進 ぜんしん Moving forward physically or making progress. | ぜんしん Moving forward physically or making progress. |
| 全体 ぜんたい The whole, entirety, or overall scope. | ぜんたい The whole, entirety, or overall scope. |
| 前方 ぜんぽう Formal term for the direction or area directly ahead | ぜんぽう Formal term for the direction or area directly ahead |
| 全力 ぜんりょく all one’s power; full effort | ぜんりょく all one’s power; full effort |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| ぞ ぞ Masculine sentence-ending particle for strong emphasis or warning | ぞ Masculine sentence-ending particle for strong emphasis or warning |
| 象 ぞう, しょう Elephant, or an image, form, or phenomenon. | ぞう, しょう Elephant, or an image, form, or phenomenon. |
| 増加 ぞうか A formal increase or rise in number, amount, or quantity. | ぞうか A formal increase or rise in number, amount, or quantity. |
| ぞくぞく ぞくぞく Shivering or chills from cold, fear, or excitement. | ぞくぞく Shivering or chills from cold, fear, or excitement. |
| 存知
(存じ)
ぞんじ Formal term for knowing; respectful for others, humble for oneself. | ぞんじ Formal term for knowing; respectful for others, humble for oneself. |
| 存じる ぞんじる Humble form of to know or to think. | ぞんじる Humble form of to know or to think. |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 多 た Prefix meaning multi-, many, or multiple. | た Prefix meaning multi-, many, or multiple. |
| 対 たい, つい Versus, a matching pair, or directed towards. | たい, つい Versus, a matching pair, or directed towards. |
| 隊員 たいいん Member of a squad, corps, or organized unit | たいいん Member of a squad, corps, or organized unit |
| 対応 たいおう Dealing with a situation, compatibility with a system, or direct correspondence. | たいおう Dealing with a situation, compatibility with a system, or direct correspondence. |
| 体温 たいおん Body temperature | たいおん Body temperature |
| 大会 たいかい Large-scale tournament, convention, or festival. | たいかい Large-scale tournament, convention, or festival. |
| 退学 たいがく Dropping out or expulsion from school | たいがく Dropping out or expulsion from school |
| 大気 たいき The atmosphere surrounding the Earth. | たいき The atmosphere surrounding the Earth. |
| 大金 たいきん A large sum of money or a fortune. | たいきん A large sum of money or a fortune. |
| 退屈 たいくつ Boredom, tedium, or feeling bored | たいくつ Boredom, tedium, or feeling bored |
| 対決 たいけつ Direct confrontation or showdown between opposing sides | たいけつ Direct confrontation or showdown between opposing sides |
| 太鼓 たいこ Traditional Japanese drum | たいこ Traditional Japanese drum |
| 大国 たいこく A major power or nation with significant global influence. | たいこく A major power or nation with significant global influence. |
| 滞在 たいざい A temporary stay or sojourn. | たいざい A temporary stay or sojourn. |
| 大した たいした Significant or impressive; often used negatively to mean nothing special | たいした Significant or impressive; often used negatively to mean nothing special |
| 大して たいして Not particularly; not very much; not that significant. | たいして Not particularly; not very much; not that significant. |
| 退社 たいしゃ leaving the office for the day or resigning from a company | たいしゃ leaving the office for the day or resigning from a company |
| 対象 たいしょう The specific target, object, or subject of an action or interest. | たいしょう The specific target, object, or subject of an action or interest. |
| 退職 たいしょく Leaving a job, resignation, or retirement | たいしょく Leaving a job, resignation, or retirement |
| 退治 たいじ Extermination of pests or defeat of villains | たいじ Extermination of pests or defeat of villains |
| 対する たいする To face, be directed towards, or stand in contrast to. | たいする To face, be directed towards, or stand in contrast to. |
| 対戦 たいせん Competing against an opponent in a game, sport, or match. | たいせん Competing against an opponent in a game, sport, or match. |
| 体調 たいちょう Physical condition or general state of health. | たいちょう Physical condition or general state of health. |
| 態度 たいど Attitude, manner, or official stance. | たいど Attitude, manner, or official stance. |
| 逮捕 たいほ Arrest or apprehension by law enforcement. | たいほ Arrest or apprehension by law enforcement. |
| 太陽 たいよう The sun as a celestial body. | たいよう The sun as a celestial body. |
| 平ら たいら A flat, level surface, or a calm, stable state. | たいら A flat, level surface, or a calm, stable state. |
| 大陸 たいりく A geographical continent, or specifically mainland China. | たいりく A geographical continent, or specifically mainland China. |
| 対立 たいりつ Direct opposition or confrontation between conflicting viewpoints or interests. | たいりつ Direct opposition or confrontation between conflicting viewpoints or interests. |
| 大量 たいりょう A large quantity or massive amount. | たいりょう A large quantity or massive amount. |
| 体力 たいりょく Physical stamina, endurance, and overall resilience | たいりょく Physical stamina, endurance, and overall resilience |
| 絶えず たえず Constantly; without interruption or pause. | たえず Constantly; without interruption or pause. |
| 耐える たえる To endure suffering, withstand physical force, or be fit for a purpose. | たえる To endure suffering, withstand physical force, or be fit for a purpose. |
| 倒す たおす To knock over an object or defeat an opponent. | たおす To knock over an object or defeat an opponent. |
| 高まる たかまる To rise, heighten, or intensify. | たかまる To rise, heighten, or intensify. |
| 宝 たから Treasure; a precious object or cherished person. | たから Treasure; a precious object or cherished person. |
| 宝くじ たからくじ Lottery or lottery ticket | たからくじ Lottery or lottery ticket |
| 宝物 たからもの, ほうもつ Treasure or prized possession. | たからもの, ほうもつ Treasure or prized possession. |
| 互い たがい Each other, one another, or a mutual relationship. | たがい Each other, one another, or a mutual relationship. |
| 互いに たがいに Mutually; reciprocally; with each other. | たがいに Mutually; reciprocally; with each other. |
| 滝 たき Waterfall | たき Waterfall |
| 宅 たく Home, residence, or household, typically used in formal compounds. | たく Home, residence, or household, typically used in formal compounds. |
| 炊く たく To cook rice or grains. | たく To cook rice or grains. |
| 宅配便 たくはいびん Express home delivery service or the delivered parcel | たくはいびん Express home delivery service or the delivered parcel |
| 確か たしか Certain, reliable, or if I remember correctly. | たしか Certain, reliable, or if I remember correctly. |
| 確かめる たしかめる To check, confirm, or verify something to ensure certainty. | たしかめる To check, confirm, or verify something to ensure certainty. |
| 多少 たしょう Somewhat, a little, or to some extent; a formal expression indicating a slight degree or amount. | たしょう Somewhat, a little, or to some extent; a formal expression indicating a slight degree or amount. |
| 多数 たすう A large number; majority | たすう A large number; majority |
| 助かる たすかる To be saved, rescued, or helpful. | たすかる To be saved, rescued, or helpful. |
| 助け たすけ Assistance, aid, or help. | たすけ Assistance, aid, or help. |
| 尋ねる たずねる To ask or inquire, typically in a polite or formal manner | たずねる To ask or inquire, typically in a polite or formal manner |
| 訪ねる たずねる To visit or call on a person or place. | たずねる To visit or call on a person or place. |
| 戦い たたかい Battle, conflict, or competitive struggle | たたかい Battle, conflict, or competitive struggle |
| 戦う たたかう To fight in a battle, compete in a contest, or struggle against adversity. | たたかう To fight in a battle, compete in a contest, or struggle against adversity. |
| 叩く たたく To strike, hit, knock, or criticize. | たたく To strike, hit, knock, or criticize. |
| 畳む たたむ To fold an object or permanently shut down a business. | たたむ To fold an object or permanently shut down a business. |
| 只
(ただ)
ただ Just, only, free of charge, or ordinary. | ただ Just, only, free of charge, or ordinary. |
| 但し
(ただし)
ただし Provided that, however, or except that; used to introduce a condition or exception. | ただし Provided that, however, or except that; used to introduce a condition or exception. |
| 正しい ただしい Factually correct, accurate, or morally just | ただしい Factually correct, accurate, or morally just |
| 直ちに ただちに Formal ‘immediately’ for urgent action or direct consequence. | ただちに Formal ‘immediately’ for urgent action or direct consequence. |
| 立ち上がる たちあがる To stand up physically, boot up a system, or rise to action. | たちあがる To stand up physically, boot up a system, or rise to action. |
| 立ち入り たちいり Entering a restricted area or prying into private affairs | たちいり Entering a restricted area or prying into private affairs |
| 立ち入り禁止 たちいりきんし “No Entry” or “Keep Out” used to forbid access to an area | たちいりきんし “No Entry” or “Keep Out” used to forbid access to an area |
| 立ち止まる たちどまる To stop walking and stand still. | たちどまる To stop walking and stand still. |
| 立場 たちば Position, situation, or standpoint. | たちば Position, situation, or standpoint. |
| 達する たっする To reach a destination, amount, or state. | たっする To reach a destination, amount, or state. |
| 達成 たっせい Achieving a specific goal or hitting a target | たっせい Achieving a specific goal or hitting a target |
| たった たった Emphasizes that a specific number or quantity is surprisingly small. | たった Emphasizes that a specific number or quantity is surprisingly small. |
| たって たって A casual suffix expressing ‘even if’ or ‘no matter,’ implying the outcome remains unchanged regardless of the condition. | たって A casual suffix expressing ‘even if’ or ‘no matter,’ implying the outcome remains unchanged regardless of the condition. |
| たっぷり たっぷり Plenty, ample, or a generous amount; loose-fitting. | たっぷり Plenty, ample, or a generous amount; loose-fitting. |
| 経つ たつ To pass (of time) | たつ To pass (of time) |
| 建つ たつ To be built or erected (of a building or structure). | たつ To be built or erected (of a building or structure). |
| 縦 たて Vertical direction, height, or top-to-bottom length. | たて Vertical direction, height, or top-to-bottom length. |
| 縦書き たてがき Vertical writing. | たてがき Vertical writing. |
| 例え たとえ A specific example or a figurative comparison. | たとえ A specific example or a figurative comparison. |
| 例える たとえる To liken or compare one thing to another. | たとえる To liken or compare one thing to another. |
| 谷 たに A valley; the low ground between mountains or hills. | たに A valley; the low ground between mountains or hills. |
| 他人 たにん Other people, someone else, or an unrelated stranger. | たにん Other people, someone else, or an unrelated stranger. |
| 種 たね A plant seed, source material, or the secret behind a trick. | たね A plant seed, source material, or the secret behind a trick. |
| 頼み たのみ A request, favor, or reliance. | たのみ A request, favor, or reliance. |
| 旅 たび Travel or journey | たび Travel or journey |
| 度々 たびたび Often or repeatedly, typically used in formal contexts to apologize for recurring inconvenience. | たびたび Often or repeatedly, typically used in formal contexts to apologize for recurring inconvenience. |
| 旅立つ たびだつ To set out on a journey or pass away | たびだつ To set out on a journey or pass away |
| 度に
(たびに)
たびに Every time; whenever; indicates that a specific result invariably accompanies an action. | たびに Every time; whenever; indicates that a specific result invariably accompanies an action. |
| 玉 たま Small round object, ball, jewel, or egg. | たま Small round object, ball, jewel, or egg. |
| 偶々
(たまたま)
たまたま By chance, coincidence, or accident | たまたま By chance, coincidence, or accident |
| 堪らない
(たまらない)
たまらない Unbearable, irresistible, or overwhelming; describes a sensation or desire too intense to endure. | たまらない Unbearable, irresistible, or overwhelming; describes a sensation or desire too intense to endure. |
| 溜まる たまる To accumulate, collect, or pile up. | たまる To accumulate, collect, or pile up. |
| 民 たみ, みん Refers to the people, subjects, or citizens of a nation, typically appearing as a component in compound words concerning the populace. | たみ, みん Refers to the people, subjects, or citizens of a nation, typically appearing as a component in compound words concerning the populace. |
| 試し ためし A trial or test run performed to check the outcome | ためし A trial or test run performed to check the outcome |
| 試す ためす To test or try out to gauge quality or effectiveness. | ためす To test or try out to gauge quality or effectiveness. |
| 溜める ためる To accumulate or let things pile up, such as chores, stress, or debts | ためる To accumulate or let things pile up, such as chores, stress, or debts |
| 保つ たもつ To maintain, preserve, or keep in a steady state; to last or endure. | たもつ To maintain, preserve, or keep in a steady state; to last or endure. |
| 頼り たより Reliance, dependence, or a source of support. | たより Reliance, dependence, or a source of support. |
| 便り たより, だより News, letters, or correspondence received from someone. | たより, だより News, letters, or correspondence received from someone. |
| 頼りない たよりない Unreliable, undependable, or appearing weak and flimsy. | たよりない Unreliable, undependable, or appearing weak and flimsy. |
| 頼る たよる To rely on or depend on someone or something. | たよる To rely on or depend on someone or something. |
| 足りる たりる To be enough or sufficient. | たりる To be enough or sufficient. |
| 単位 たんい Unit of measurement, denomination, or academic credit. | たんい Unit of measurement, denomination, or academic credit. |
| 短期 たんき Short-term duration or brief period | たんき Short-term duration or brief period |
| 短気 たんき Short temper; impatience | たんき Short temper; impatience |
| 探検 たんけん exploration or expedition into unknown territory | たんけん exploration or expedition into unknown territory |
| 単語 たんご An individual word or unit of vocabulary | たんご An individual word or unit of vocabulary |
| 炭酸 たんさん Carbonic acid, carbonation, or a carbonated drink | たんさん Carbonic acid, carbonation, or a carbonated drink |
| 短所 たんしょ A weak point, flaw, or disadvantage | たんしょ A weak point, flaw, or disadvantage |
| 単純 たんじゅん Simple, uncomplicated, or simple-minded | たんじゅん Simple, uncomplicated, or simple-minded |
| 担当 たんとう Being in charge of or responsible for a specific duty. | たんとう Being in charge of or responsible for a specific duty. |
| 担当者 たんとうしゃ Person in charge or contact person | たんとうしゃ Person in charge or contact person |
| 単なる たんなる Mere, simple, or just | たんなる Mere, simple, or just |
| 単に たんに simply; merely | たんに simply; merely |
| 担任 たんにん Homeroom teacher; person in charge of a class | たんにん Homeroom teacher; person in charge of a class |
| 田んぼ たんぼ Rice paddy; a flooded field used for growing rice. | たんぼ Rice paddy; a flooded field used for growing rice. |
| タレント タレント TV personality or media celebrity; refers to the person rather than a skill or ability. | タレント TV personality or media celebrity; refers to the person rather than a skill or ability. |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 地位 ちい Formal rank, social status, or position within a hierarchy. | ちい Formal rank, social status, or position within a hierarchy. |
| 地域 ちいき area, region, or district | ちいき area, region, or district |
| 知恵 ちえ Practical wisdom, cleverness, or ingenuity. | ちえ Practical wisdom, cleverness, or ingenuity. |
| 誓い ちかい A solemn oath, vow, or pledge. | ちかい A solemn oath, vow, or pledge. |
| 近頃 ちかごろ lately, nowadays, or recently, referring to the general state of affairs over the past few weeks or months | ちかごろ lately, nowadays, or recently, referring to the general state of affairs over the past few weeks or months |
| 近づく ちかづく to approach; to get closer | ちかづく to approach; to get closer |
| 近づける ちかづける To bring close; to allow to approach. | ちかづける To bring close; to allow to approach. |
| 近道 ちかみち A physical shortcut or a quicker method to achieve a goal. | ちかみち A physical shortcut or a quicker method to achieve a goal. |
| 近寄る ちかよる to approach, draw near, or associate with | ちかよる to approach, draw near, or associate with |
| 力持ち ちからもち A physically strong person. | ちからもち A physically strong person. |
| 違い ちがい A difference, distinction, or discrepancy. | ちがい A difference, distinction, or discrepancy. |
| 違いない ちがいない It must be; without a doubt. | ちがいない It must be; without a doubt. |
| 遅刻 ちこく Being late for a scheduled appointment, school, or work. | ちこく Being late for a scheduled appointment, school, or work. |
| 知識 ちしき Knowledge, facts, or information acquired through study | ちしき Knowledge, facts, or information acquired through study |
| 地上 ちじょう Above ground, ground level, or the surface of the earth. | ちじょう Above ground, ground level, or the surface of the earth. |
| 父親 ちちおや A father; a male parent (neutral or objective term) | ちちおや A father; a male parent (neutral or objective term) |
| 些とも
(ちっとも)
ちっとも Not at all; not even a little bit (used with negative verbs) | ちっとも Not at all; not even a little bit (used with negative verbs) |
| 因みに
(ちなみに)
ちなみに By the way; incidentally (used to add related information) | ちなみに By the way; incidentally (used to add related information) |
| 地方 ちほう Region, district, or the provinces outside major cities | ちほう Region, district, or the provinces outside major cities |
| 着 ちゃく Suffix for arrival times; counter for clothing and race rankings. | ちゃく Suffix for arrival times; counter for clothing and race rankings. |
| 着陸 ちゃくりく Aircraft landing or touchdown. | ちゃくりく Aircraft landing or touchdown. |
| ちゃんと ちゃんと Properly, correctly, or reliably; implies meeting a standard or expectation. | ちゃんと Properly, correctly, or reliably; implies meeting a standard or expectation. |
| 注 ちゅう Explanatory note or annotation. | ちゅう Explanatory note or annotation. |
| 注意深い ちゅういぶかい Careful, cautious, or attentive. | ちゅういぶかい Careful, cautious, or attentive. |
| 中央 ちゅうおう Center, middle, or central administration | ちゅうおう Center, middle, or central administration |
| 中華 ちゅうか Chinese food; or ‘Chinese’ as a prefix in compound words | ちゅうか Chinese food; or ‘Chinese’ as a prefix in compound words |
| 中級 ちゅうきゅう Intermediate level | ちゅうきゅう Intermediate level |
| 中古 ちゅうこ Used, second-hand, or pre-owned items. | ちゅうこ Used, second-hand, or pre-owned items. |
| 忠告 ちゅうこく Strong advice or warning given from a position of authority | ちゅうこく Strong advice or warning given from a position of authority |
| 中止 ちゅうし Cancellation or stoppage of an event or activity | ちゅうし Cancellation or stoppage of an event or activity |
| 駐車 ちゅうしゃ The formal act of parking a vehicle, often seen on signs. | ちゅうしゃ The formal act of parking a vehicle, often seen on signs. |
| 抽象 ちゅうしょう Abstract or conceptual; general ideas rather than specific physical examples. | ちゅうしょう Abstract or conceptual; general ideas rather than specific physical examples. |
| 抽象的 ちゅうしょうてき Abstract or conceptual; lacking concrete details. | ちゅうしょうてき Abstract or conceptual; lacking concrete details. |
| 昼食 ちゅうしょく Formal or written term for lunch | ちゅうしょく Formal or written term for lunch |
| 中心 ちゅうしん The physical center or figurative focus. | ちゅうしん The physical center or figurative focus. |
| 中旬 ちゅうじゅん The middle ten days of the month (11th–20th) | ちゅうじゅん The middle ten days of the month (11th–20th) |
| 抽選 ちゅうせん Lottery, raffle, or drawing. | ちゅうせん Lottery, raffle, or drawing. |
| 中断 ちゅうだん Interruption or suspension of an activity in progress | ちゅうだん Interruption or suspension of an activity in progress |
| 中年 ちゅうねん Middle age or a middle-aged person | ちゅうねん Middle age or a middle-aged person |
| 注目 ちゅうもく Focused attention or notice | ちゅうもく Focused attention or notice |
| 長 ちょう Chief, head of an organization, or a strong point | ちょう Chief, head of an organization, or a strong point |
| 超 ちょう Prefix meaning super or extremely; suffix meaning over or exceeding. | ちょう Prefix meaning super or extremely; suffix meaning over or exceeding. |
| 兆 ちょう, きざし Trillion; sign or omen. | ちょう, きざし Trillion; sign or omen. |
| 長期 ちょうき A long period of time; long-term. | ちょうき A long period of time; long-term. |
| 彫刻 ちょうこく Sculpture, carving, or engraving | ちょうこく Sculpture, carving, or engraving |
| 調査 ちょうさ Formal investigation, survey, or research conducted to gather facts. | ちょうさ Formal investigation, survey, or research conducted to gather facts. |
| 長所 ちょうしょ Strong point, merit, or advantage | ちょうしょ Strong point, merit, or advantage |
| 朝食 ちょうしょく The formal term for breakfast, typically found in writing. | ちょうしょく The formal term for breakfast, typically found in writing. |
| 頂上 ちょうじょう Summit, peak, or the very top. | ちょうじょう Summit, peak, or the very top. |
| 調整 ちょうせい Adjustment, coordination, or fine-tuning. | ちょうせい Adjustment, coordination, or fine-tuning. |
| 調節 ちょうせつ Regulation or fine-tuning of settings like volume or temperature. | ちょうせつ Regulation or fine-tuning of settings like volume or temperature. |
| 挑戦 ちょうせん To take on a challenge, attempt a difficult task, or challenge an opponent. | ちょうせん To take on a challenge, attempt a difficult task, or challenge an opponent. |
| 頂戴 ちょうだい Humbly receiving something from a superior, or casually requesting something. | ちょうだい Humbly receiving something from a superior, or casually requesting something. |
| 長男 ちょうなん Eldest or first-born son | ちょうなん Eldest or first-born son |
| 調味料 ちょうみりょう Seasoning or condiment | ちょうみりょう Seasoning or condiment |
| 丁目 ちょうめ District or block number in an address | ちょうめ District or block number in an address |
| 調理 ちょうり The technical process of cooking or food preparation | ちょうり The technical process of cooking or food preparation |
| 貯金 ちょきん Money set aside as savings, the act of saving money, or a lead in sports. | ちょきん Money set aside as savings, the act of saving money, or a lead in sports. |
| 直進 ちょくしん Proceeding straight ahead, typically used in driving and navigation. | ちょくしん Proceeding straight ahead, typically used in driving and navigation. |
| 直接 ちょくせつ Directly, in person, or firsthand without an intermediary. | ちょくせつ Directly, in person, or firsthand without an intermediary. |
| 直前 ちょくぜん The time immediately preceding an event or the location directly in front. | ちょくぜん The time immediately preceding an event or the location directly in front. |
| 著者 ちょしゃ Author or writer of a specific published work | ちょしゃ Author or writer of a specific published work |
| 散らかる ちらかる To be messy, cluttered, or scattered about. | ちらかる To be messy, cluttered, or scattered about. |
| 散らし ちらし Scattering, advertising flyers, or scattered sushi | ちらし Scattering, advertising flyers, or scattered sushi |
| 散らす ちらす To scatter objects, distract focus, or perform actions in a messy manner. | ちらす To scatter objects, distract focus, or perform actions in a messy manner. |
| 地理 ちり Geography; the physical layout or features of an area. | ちり Geography; the physical layout or features of an area. |
| 治療 ちりょう medical treatment; therapy | ちりょう medical treatment; therapy |
| 散る ちる To scatter, fall, or disperse. | ちる To scatter, fall, or disperse. |
| チャージ チャージ Charging a device, topping up a card, or a service fee | チャージ Charging a device, topping up a card, or a service fee |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| つい つい Unintentionally, on impulse, or just a moment ago. | つい Unintentionally, on impulse, or just a moment ago. |
| 追加 ついか Addition; supplement; extra. | ついか Addition; supplement; extra. |
| 追求 ついきゅう Pursuit of an abstract goal or ideal | ついきゅう Pursuit of an abstract goal or ideal |
| ついて行く
(付いて行く)
ついていく, ついてゆく To follow, accompany, or keep up with. | ついていく, ついてゆく To follow, accompany, or keep up with. |
| 序で
(ついで)
ついで Doing a secondary task while performing a main one; while at it | ついで Doing a secondary task while performing a main one; while at it |
| 遂に
(ついに)
ついに Finally, at last, or in the end. | ついに Finally, at last, or in the end. |
| 通院 つういん Regularly visiting a hospital or clinic as an outpatient | つういん Regularly visiting a hospital or clinic as an outpatient |
| 通過 つうか Passing through a physical location, clearing a preliminary stage, or formally passing a bill. | つうか Passing through a physical location, clearing a preliminary stage, or formally passing a bill. |
| 通学 つうがく Commuting to school | つうがく Commuting to school |
| 通勤 つうきん Commuting to work | つうきん Commuting to work |
| 通行 つうこう Passage or traffic of people and vehicles. | つうこう Passage or traffic of people and vehicles. |
| 通行止め つうこうどめ Road closure prohibiting passage | つうこうどめ Road closure prohibiting passage |
| 通信 つうしん Telecommunications, data transmission, or correspondence. | つうしん Telecommunications, data transmission, or correspondence. |
| 通じる つうじる To lead to, be understood, or be well-versed in. | つうじる To lead to, be understood, or be well-versed in. |
| 通知 つうち Formal notice or notification | つうち Formal notice or notification |
| 通帳 つうちょう A physical bank passbook recording account transactions. | つうちょう A physical bank passbook recording account transactions. |
| 通訳 つうやく Oral interpretation or an interpreter | つうやく Oral interpretation or an interpreter |
| 通路 つうろ Passageway, aisle, or corridor. | つうろ Passageway, aisle, or corridor. |
| 使い つかい, づかい An errand, a messenger, or a suffix indicating a user or manner of use. | つかい, づかい An errand, a messenger, or a suffix indicating a user or manner of use. |
| 使い捨て つかいすて Disposable or single-use items | つかいすて Disposable or single-use items |
| 使い道 つかいみち Intended use, utility, or purpose. | つかいみち Intended use, utility, or purpose. |
| 捕まえる つかまえる To catch, arrest, seize, or grab hold of. | つかまえる To catch, arrest, seize, or grab hold of. |
| 捕まる つかまる to be caught, arrested, or hold on to something | つかまる to be caught, arrested, or hold on to something |
| 掴む つかむ To physically grab, seize an opportunity, or mentally grasp a concept | つかむ To physically grab, seize an opportunity, or mentally grasp a concept |
| 疲れ つかれ Physical or mental fatigue or tiredness | つかれ Physical or mental fatigue or tiredness |
| 付き つき, づき Attached to, furnished with, assigned to, or physical appearance. | つき, づき Attached to, furnished with, assigned to, or physical appearance. |
| 付き合い つきあい Socializing, association, or a romantic relationship. | つきあい Socializing, association, or a romantic relationship. |
| 付き合う つきあう To date, associate with, or keep someone company. | つきあう To date, associate with, or keep someone company. |
| 突き当たる つきあたる To run into a physical barrier, reach the end of a street, or encounter an obstacle. | つきあたる To run into a physical barrier, reach the end of a street, or encounter an obstacle. |
| 月々 つきづき Monthly; every month; monthly installments. | つきづき Monthly; every month; monthly installments. |
| 月日 つきひ, がっぴ passage of time; date | つきひ, がっぴ passage of time; date |
| 次々 つぎつぎ one after another; in succession | つぎつぎ one after another; in succession |
| 次々に つぎつぎに One after another; in succession. | つぎつぎに One after another; in succession. |
| 作り つくり The physical make, structure, physique, or craftsmanship of something. | つくり The physical make, structure, physique, or craftsmanship of something. |
| 作り上げる つくりあげる To build something to completion or to fabricate a false story | つくりあげる To build something to completion or to fabricate a false story |
| 作り出す つくりだす To manufacture, produce, or invent something new. | つくりだす To manufacture, produce, or invent something new. |
| 漬物 つけもの Japanese pickles; pickled vegetables. | つけもの Japanese pickles; pickled vegetables. |
| 漬ける つける To pickle, preserve, or soak in liquid | つける To pickle, preserve, or soak in liquid |
| 告げる つげる To tell, announce, or signal. | つげる To tell, announce, or signal. |
| 都合 つごう Convenience, availability, or circumstances regarding one’s schedule. | つごう Convenience, availability, or circumstances regarding one’s schedule. |
| 伝わる つたわる To get across, be conveyed, or spread. | つたわる To get across, be conveyed, or spread. |
| 包み つつみ A package, bundle, or wrapped parcel. | つつみ A package, bundle, or wrapped parcel. |
| 努める つとめる To make an effort, strive, or endeavor. | つとめる To make an effort, strive, or endeavor. |
| 繋がる つながる To be connected, linked, or lead to a result | つながる To be connected, linked, or lead to a result |
| 津波 つなみ tsunami; massive ocean wave | つなみ tsunami; massive ocean wave |
| 常 つね, とこ Signifies the usual state, constancy, or eternity. | つね, とこ Signifies the usual state, constancy, or eternity. |
| 常に つねに Always or constantly, used formally to imply an unchanging state or principle. | つねに Always or constantly, used formally to imply an unchanging state or principle. |
| 粒 つぶ, りゅう Small grain, drop, or individual particle | つぶ, りゅう Small grain, drop, or individual particle |
| 潰す つぶす To crush, flatten, ruin, or kill time | つぶす To crush, flatten, ruin, or kill time |
| 潰れる つぶれる To be crushed, collapse, go out of business, or be wasted. | つぶれる To be crushed, collapse, go out of business, or be wasted. |
| 妻 つま The standard, neutral term for one’s own wife. | つま The standard, neutral term for one’s own wife. |
| 詰まり
(つまり)
つまり “In other words” or “basically”; a physical blockage or clog. | つまり “In other words” or “basically”; a physical blockage or clog. |
| 詰まる つまる To be clogged, blocked, packed full, stuck, or shortened | つまる To be clogged, blocked, packed full, stuck, or shortened |
| 罪 つみ crime, sin, or fault | つみ crime, sin, or fault |
| 積む つむ To pile up, stack, load, or accumulate. | つむ To pile up, stack, load, or accumulate. |
| 爪 つめ Fingernail, toenail, or animal claw. | つめ Fingernail, toenail, or animal claw. |
| 詰める つめる To pack tightly, shorten a distance, or finalize details. | つめる To pack tightly, shorten a distance, or finalize details. |
| 積もる つもる To pile up or accumulate (e.g., snow, dust, or feelings) | つもる To pile up or accumulate (e.g., snow, dust, or feelings) |
| 梅雨 つゆ, ばいう The rainy season in early summer. | つゆ, ばいう The rainy season in early summer. |
| 梅雨入り つゆいり, ついり Start of the rainy season | つゆいり, ついり Start of the rainy season |
| 強まる つよまる To become stronger or intensify | つよまる To become stronger or intensify |
| 強める つよめる to strengthen or intensify something, such as a force, relationship, or belief | つよめる to strengthen or intensify something, such as a force, relationship, or belief |
| 釣る つる To fish with a rod or to lure someone. | つる To fish with a rod or to lure someone. |
| つるつる つるつる Smooth, slippery, or shiny surface; sound of slurping noodles. | つるつる Smooth, slippery, or shiny surface; sound of slurping noodles. |
| 連れ つれ, づれ A companion, or a suffix indicating being accompanied by someone. | つれ, づれ A companion, or a suffix indicating being accompanied by someone. |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 手当 てあて Salary allowance, medical treatment, or advance arrangements. | てあて Salary allowance, medical treatment, or advance arrangements. |
| 提案 ていあん A formal proposal or suggestion put forward for consideration. | ていあん A formal proposal or suggestion put forward for consideration. |
| 定員 ていいん Fixed maximum number of people; capacity or quota | ていいん Fixed maximum number of people; capacity or quota |
| 庭園 ていえん Large, formal garden | ていえん Large, formal garden |
| 定価 ていか List price or sticker price set by the manufacturer. | ていか List price or sticker price set by the manufacturer. |
| 定期 ていき Fixed term, regular interval, or commuter pass | ていき Fixed term, regular interval, or commuter pass |
| 定期的 ていきてき Regular, periodic, or occurring at fixed intervals. | ていきてき Regular, periodic, or occurring at fixed intervals. |
| 定休 ていきゅう Regular closing day for a business | ていきゅう Regular closing day for a business |
| 定休日 ていきゅうび Regular closing day | ていきゅうび Regular closing day |
| 提供 ていきょう Formally offering, providing, or sponsoring services or information | ていきょう Formally offering, providing, or sponsoring services or information |
| 定義 ていぎ Definition; to define | ていぎ Definition; to define |
| 停止 ていし A formal suspension, halt, or stoppage of a machine, service, or privilege. | ていし A formal suspension, halt, or stoppage of a machine, service, or privilege. |
| 提出 ていしゅつ Formally submitting documents, reports, or assignments to an authority. | ていしゅつ Formally submitting documents, reports, or assignments to an authority. |
| 停電 ていでん power outage; blackout | ていでん power outage; blackout |
| 停留所 ていりゅうじょ Formal term for a bus or tram stop | ていりゅうじょ Formal term for a bus or tram stop |
| 手入れ ていれ Maintenance, care, or a police raid. | ていれ Maintenance, care, or a police raid. |
| 手軽 てがる Simple, convenient, and requiring minimal time, money, or effort. | てがる Simple, convenient, and requiring minimal time, money, or effort. |
| 的 てき, まと Target, or a suffix that makes nouns into adjectives (like -al or -ic). | てき, まと Target, or a suffix that makes nouns into adjectives (like -al or -ic). |
| 敵 てき An opponent, rival, or hostile force. | てき An opponent, rival, or hostile force. |
| 適する てきする To be suitable, appropriate, or a good fit. | てきする To be suitable, appropriate, or a good fit. |
| 適切 てきせつ Appropriate or suitable for a specific situation or purpose. | てきせつ Appropriate or suitable for a specific situation or purpose. |
| 適当 てきとう suitable/appropriate; careless/halfhearted | てきとう suitable/appropriate; careless/halfhearted |
| 適度 てきど Moderate degree or appropriate amount. | てきど Moderate degree or appropriate amount. |
| 手首 てくび The wrist; the joint connecting the hand to the arm. | てくび The wrist; the joint connecting the hand to the arm. |
| 手ごろ
(手頃)
てごろ Reasonable, affordable, or handy. | てごろ Reasonable, affordable, or handy. |
| 手数料 てすうりょう Handling fee, service charge, or commission. | てすうりょう Handling fee, service charge, or commission. |
| てっきり てっきり Firmly believing something that turns out to be wrong | てっきり Firmly believing something that turns out to be wrong |
| 徹底的 てっていてき Thorough, exhaustive, or complete. | てっていてき Thorough, exhaustive, or complete. |
| 鉄砲 てっぽう Gun, sumo training pole, or slang for puffer fish. | てっぽう Gun, sumo training pole, or slang for puffer fish. |
| 鉄 てつ Iron, steel, or railway. | てつ Iron, steel, or railway. |
| 哲学 てつがく Philosophy; the academic discipline or personal guiding principles. | てつがく Philosophy; the academic discipline or personal guiding principles. |
| 手続き てつづき Official procedure or formalities | てつづき Official procedure or formalities |
| 鉄道 てつどう The entire railway system or railroad infrastructure. | てつどう The entire railway system or railroad infrastructure. |
| 徹夜 てつや Staying up all night; pulling an all-nighter. | てつや Staying up all night; pulling an all-nighter. |
| 手作り てづくり Making things by hand; handmade or homemade. | てづくり Making things by hand; handmade or homemade. |
| 手に入れる てにいれる To obtain, acquire, or get hold of something. | てにいれる To obtain, acquire, or get hold of something. |
| 手に入る てにはいる To come into one’s possession or be obtained. | てにはいる To come into one’s possession or be obtained. |
| 手本 てほん Model, pattern, or example to be copied or imitated | てほん Model, pattern, or example to be copied or imitated |
| 手間 てま Time, effort, or labor required to complete a task; hassle. | てま Time, effort, or labor required to complete a task; hassle. |
| 手前 てまえ This side of a location; one’s standpoint or face in front of others. | てまえ This side of a location; one’s standpoint or face in front of others. |
| 照る てる To shine (of the sun or moon) | てる To shine (of the sun or moon) |
| 手分け てわけ Dividing tasks or splitting into groups | てわけ Dividing tasks or splitting into groups |
| 天 てん, あま, あめ Sky, heavens, or an abbreviation for tempura. | てん, あま, あめ Sky, heavens, or an abbreviation for tempura. |
| 点 てん A point, score, specific aspect, or physical dot. | てん A point, score, specific aspect, or physical dot. |
| 点検 てんけん A formal inspection to verify safety or proper function. | てんけん A formal inspection to verify safety or proper function. |
| 天候 てんこう Weather conditions over an extended period | てんこう Weather conditions over an extended period |
| 天国 てんごく Heaven; paradise. | てんごく Heaven; paradise. |
| 天才 てんさい A genius or prodigy possessing exceptional natural talent. | てんさい A genius or prodigy possessing exceptional natural talent. |
| 点数 てんすう Score, points, or number of items | てんすう Score, points, or number of items |
| 店長 てんちょう Manager of a store, restaurant, or cafe | てんちょう Manager of a store, restaurant, or cafe |
| 天然 てんねん Nature, natural, or a naturally ditzy airhead | てんねん Nature, natural, or a naturally ditzy airhead |
| 天皇 てんのう Emperor of Japan | てんのう Emperor of Japan |
| 展覧会 てんらんかい Art exhibition or museum display | てんらんかい Art exhibition or museum display |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 問い とい A formal question, inquiry, or problem requiring an answer. | とい A formal question, inquiry, or problem requiring an answer. |
| 問い合わせ といあわせ Formal inquiry or request for information directed at an organization. | といあわせ Formal inquiry or request for information directed at an organization. |
| 問い合わせる といあわせる To make a formal inquiry or ask for information. | といあわせる To make a formal inquiry or ask for information. |
| と言うことは
(ということは)
ということは That means; in other words | ということは That means; in other words |
| と言うことはない
(ということはない)
ということはない It is not the case that; it does not mean that. | ということはない It is not the case that; it does not mean that. |
| と言うもの
(というもの)
というもの That is precisely what one calls; something known as | というもの That is precisely what one calls; something known as |
| と言えば
(といえば)
といえば Speaking of; if one were to speak of; identifying a representative example | といえば Speaking of; if one were to speak of; identifying a representative example |
| と言っても といっても Although I say; that being said; qualifying a previous statement. | といっても Although I say; that being said; qualifying a previous statement. |
| 党 とう Political party or faction based on shared preferences | とう Political party or faction based on shared preferences |
| 塔 とう A general term for a tall structure, such as a modern tower or a traditional pagoda. | とう A general term for a tall structure, such as a modern tower or a traditional pagoda. |
| 統一 とういつ Unification or standardization into a consistent whole. | とういつ Unification or standardization into a consistent whole. |
| 冬季 とうき The winter season, typically used in formal or official contexts. | とうき The winter season, typically used in formal or official contexts. |
| 投稿 とうこう posting online or submitting for publication | とうこう posting online or submitting for publication |
| 登校 とうこう Going to school; school attendance | とうこう Going to school; school attendance |
| 東西 とうざい East and west directions, the Orient and Occident, or a traditional theatrical call for attention. | とうざい East and west directions, the Orient and Occident, or a traditional theatrical call for attention. |
| 投資 とうし Investment of money, time, or resources for future benefit | とうし Investment of money, time, or resources for future benefit |
| 当時 とうじ At that time; in those days | とうじ At that time; in those days |
| 当日 とうじつ The appointed day, that very day, or the day of an event | とうじつ The appointed day, that very day, or the day of an event |
| 登場 とうじょう Entry on stage, appearance in a scene, or debut | とうじょう Entry on stage, appearance in a scene, or debut |
| 搭乗 とうじょう Boarding a plane or ship | とうじょう Boarding a plane or ship |
| 登場人物 とうじょうじんぶつ Character appearing in a story, play, or work of fiction | とうじょうじんぶつ Character appearing in a story, play, or work of fiction |
| 当選 とうせん Winning an election or lottery. | とうせん Winning an election or lottery. |
| 当然 とうぜん Natural, logical, or deserved; a matter of course. | とうぜん Natural, logical, or deserved; a matter of course. |
| 到着 とうちゃく Arrival (formal); used for transportation schedules, deliveries, and official announcements. | とうちゃく Arrival (formal); used for transportation schedules, deliveries, and official announcements. |
| 投入 とうにゅう Inserting physical items, investing resources, or launching products into a market. | とうにゅう Inserting physical items, investing resources, or launching products into a market. |
| 当番 とうばん Being on duty or taking one’s turn for a shared task | とうばん Being on duty or taking one’s turn for a shared task |
| 投票 とうひょう Voting; the act of casting a vote. | とうひょう Voting; the act of casting a vote. |
| 当分 とうぶん For the time being; for some time to come | とうぶん For the time being; for some time to come |
| 東北 とうほく The northeast direction, usually referring to the Tohoku region of northern Japan. | とうほく The northeast direction, usually referring to the Tohoku region of northern Japan. |
| 東洋 とうよう The East or the Orient, referring to the cultural region of East Asia. | とうよう The East or the Orient, referring to the cultural region of East Asia. |
| 登録 とうろく Registration, signing up, or subscribing to a system or record | とうろく Registration, signing up, or subscribing to a system or record |
| 通す とおす To pass something through, guide someone in, or see a plan or action through to completion. | とおす To pass something through, guide someone in, or see a plan or action through to completion. |
| 通り とおり, どおり A street or avenue; also acting ‘just as’ or ‘in accordance with’. | とおり, どおり A street or avenue; also acting ‘just as’ or ‘in accordance with’. |
| 通りかかる とおりかかる To happen to pass by | とおりかかる To happen to pass by |
| 通り過ぎる とおりすぎる To pass by or go past a location, person, or event without stopping. | とおりすぎる To pass by or go past a location, person, or event without stopping. |
| 都会 とかい A large city, metropolis, or busy urban area. | とかい A large city, metropolis, or busy urban area. |
| 溶かす とかす To melt a solid with heat or dissolve it in liquid. | とかす To melt a solid with heat or dissolve it in liquid. |
| 時には ときには At times; on occasion; sometimes. | ときには At times; on occasion; sometimes. |
| とく とく Casual contraction for doing something in advance or leaving it as is | とく Casual contraction for doing something in advance or leaving it as is |
| 得 とく Profit, advantage, benefit, or a good deal. | とく Profit, advantage, benefit, or a good deal. |
| 解く とく, ほどく To untie, solve, or resolve | とく, ほどく To untie, solve, or resolve |
| 特技 とくぎ Special skill or specific talent | とくぎ Special skill or specific talent |
| 特集 とくしゅう Special feature or cover story | とくしゅう Special feature or cover story |
| 特色 とくしょく distinctive feature or unique characteristic | とくしょく distinctive feature or unique characteristic |
| 得する とくする To profit, benefit, or come out ahead. | とくする To profit, benefit, or come out ahead. |
| 得点 とくてん Score or points gained in a game or test | とくてん Score or points gained in a game or test |
| 解ける とける, ほどける To be solved, come untied, or be lifted | とける, ほどける To be solved, come untied, or be lifted |
| 所が
(ところが)
ところが However; but then (indicating an unexpected result) | ところが However; but then (indicating an unexpected result) |
| 所々
(ところどころ)
ところどころ, しょしょ Here and there; in various places. | ところどころ, しょしょ Here and there; in various places. |
| 登山 とざん Mountain climbing | とざん Mountain climbing |
| 都市 とし A large city or urban area, typically referred to in formal or conceptual contexts. | とし A large city or urban area, typically referred to in formal or conceptual contexts. |
| 年上 としうえ Older person or senior in age. | としうえ Older person or senior in age. |
| 年下 としした Younger person or junior in age. | としした Younger person or junior in age. |
| として として As; in the capacity of; in the role of. | として As; in the capacity of; in the role of. |
| としても としても Even if; supposing that; also in the capacity of. | としても Even if; supposing that; also in the capacity of. |
| 図書 としょ Books in a formal or institutional context. | としょ Books in a formal or institutional context. |
| 年寄り としより An old or elderly person, often considered a direct or blunt term. | としより An old or elderly person, often considered a direct or blunt term. |
| 閉じる とじる To close things that fold shut, or to formally conclude an event. | とじる To close things that fold shut, or to formally conclude an event. |
| とする とする Signifies an attempt to act, a hypothetical assumption, or a sensory state. | とする Signifies an attempt to act, a hypothetical assumption, or a sensory state. |
| とすれば とすれば Assuming that; if we suppose that | とすれば Assuming that; if we suppose that |
| 途端 とたん The very moment; as soon as | とたん The very moment; as soon as |
| 途端に とたんに Just as; the moment that (implies an immediate, often unexpected result). | とたんに Just as; the moment that (implies an immediate, often unexpected result). |
| 土地 とち Land, referring to a plot of property or a specific locality. | とち Land, referring to a plot of property or a specific locality. |
| 特急 とっきゅう Limited express train or matter of great urgency. | とっきゅう Limited express train or matter of great urgency. |
| 疾っくに
(とっくに)
とっくに Long ago or already; indicates an event happened much earlier than expected. | とっくに Long ago or already; indicates an event happened much earlier than expected. |
| 突然 とつぜん Abrupt, unexpected, or out of the blue. | とつぜん Abrupt, unexpected, or out of the blue. |
| 整う ととのう To be prepared, arranged, or in proper order. | ととのう To be prepared, arranged, or in proper order. |
| 整える ととのえる To put in order, prepare, or adjust. | ととのえる To put in order, prepare, or adjust. |
| 都道府県 とどうふけん Japan’s 47 prefectures | とどうふけん Japan’s 47 prefectures |
| 届 とどけ A formal report, notice, or registration form submitted to an authority. | とどけ A formal report, notice, or registration form submitted to an authority. |
| 隣り合う となりあう To be next to each other; to adjoin | となりあう To be next to each other; to adjoin |
| となる となる Formal ‘to become’ indicating a definitive outcome or total. | となる Formal ‘to become’ indicating a definitive outcome or total. |
| 兎に角
(とにかく)
とにかく Anyway, at any rate, or in any case. | とにかく Anyway, at any rate, or in any case. |
| とは とは Marks a formal definition or expresses strong surprise/disbelief. | とは Marks a formal definition or expresses strong surprise/disbelief. |
| とは限らない とはかぎらない Not necessarily the case; not always true. | とはかぎらない Not necessarily the case; not always true. |
| 飛ばす とばす To make fly, launch, skip over, or speed | とばす To make fly, launch, skip over, or speed |
| 飛び込み とびこみ Diving into water or an unannounced walk-in visit. | とびこみ Diving into water or an unannounced walk-in visit. |
| 飛び込む とびこむ To jump, dive, or plunge into a place or situation. | とびこむ To jump, dive, or plunge into a place or situation. |
| 飛び出す とびだす To suddenly rush out, leave abruptly, or protrude outward. | とびだす To suddenly rush out, leave abruptly, or protrude outward. |
| 扉 とびら Door, gate, or title page. | とびら Door, gate, or title page. |
| 徒歩 とほ Walking or going on foot, often used to indicate travel time on maps and signs. | とほ Walking or going on foot, often used to indicate travel time on maps and signs. |
| 泊まり とまり Overnight stay or night duty | とまり Overnight stay or night duty |
| 富 とみ, ふ Wealth, riches, or fortune. | とみ, ふ Wealth, riches, or fortune. |
| とも とも Means ‘both’ or ‘all’ when inclusive, or ‘even if’ and ‘no matter’ in conditional statements. | とも Means ‘both’ or ‘all’ when inclusive, or ‘even if’ and ‘no matter’ in conditional statements. |
| 友 とも Friend or companion. | とも Friend or companion. |
| 兎も角
(ともかく)
ともかく Anyway; in any case; setting something aside. | ともかく Anyway; in any case; setting something aside. |
| 伴う ともなう To accompany, go hand in hand with, or entail. | ともなう To accompany, go hand in hand with, or entail. |
| 共に ともに Formally means together, along with, or both; indicates shared actions or simultaneous changes. | ともに Formally means together, along with, or both; indicates shared actions or simultaneous changes. |
| 取りあえず
(とりあえず)
とりあえず For the time being; for now; first of all | とりあえず For the time being; for now; first of all |
| 取り扱い とりあつかい Handling, treatment, or management. | とりあつかい Handling, treatment, or management. |
| 取り入れる とりいれる To adopt, incorporate, or physically bring inside. | とりいれる To adopt, incorporate, or physically bring inside. |
| 取り返す とりかえす To take back, reclaim, or recover. | とりかえす To take back, reclaim, or recover. |
| 取り替える とりかえる To replace, swap, or exchange one thing for another. | とりかえる To replace, swap, or exchange one thing for another. |
| 取り消し とりけし Cancellation or retraction of a previous arrangement, order, or statement. | とりけし Cancellation or retraction of a previous arrangement, order, or statement. |
| 取り消す とりけす To cancel, retract, or revoke something previously arranged or stated | とりけす To cancel, retract, or revoke something previously arranged or stated |
| 取引 とりひき Business transactions, dealings, or trade. | とりひき Business transactions, dealings, or trade. |
| 取り戻す とりもどす To take back, regain, or recover something lost. | とりもどす To take back, regain, or recover something lost. |
| 捕る とる To catch or capture living things or moving objects. | とる To catch or capture living things or moving objects. |
| 採る とる To adopt a method, hire personnel, or harvest resources. | とる To adopt a method, hire personnel, or harvest resources. |
| 取れる とれる To come off, be removed, or to be obtained. | とれる To come off, be removed, or to be obtained. |
| とんでもない とんでもない unthinkable, outrageous, absolutely not, or a humble ‘not at all’ | とんでもない unthinkable, outrageous, absolutely not, or a humble ‘not at all’ |
| トリートメント トリートメント Refers specifically to a hair treatment or deep conditioner rather than medical care. | トリートメント Refers specifically to a hair treatment or deep conditioner rather than medical care. |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 第 だい Prefix for ordinal numbers denoting rank or sequence | だい Prefix for ordinal numbers denoting rank or sequence |
| 題 だい Title of a work, theme, or specific question on a test | だい Title of a work, theme, or specific question on a test |
| 第一 だいいち First, number one, or in the first place. | だいいち First, number one, or in the first place. |
| 代金 だいきん Payment for specific goods or merchandise | だいきん Payment for specific goods or merchandise |
| 大工 だいく Carpenter | だいく Carpenter |
| 大臣 だいじん Cabinet minister | だいじん Cabinet minister |
| 大胆 だいたん Bold, daring, or audacious. | だいたん Bold, daring, or audacious. |
| 代々 だいだい generation after generation; for generations | だいだい generation after generation; for generations |
| 大地 だいち The vast land, earth, or ground. | だいち The vast land, earth, or ground. |
| 大統領 だいとうりょう President of a country | だいとうりょう President of a country |
| 代表 だいひょう Official representative of a group or a prime example of a category | だいひょう Official representative of a group or a prime example of a category |
| 大部分 だいぶぶん The majority or largest portion of a whole. | だいぶぶん The majority or largest portion of a whole. |
| 代理人 だいりにん Proxy, agent, or authorized representative. | だいりにん Proxy, agent, or authorized representative. |
| だが だが Formal sentence-initial ‘but’ or ‘however’. | だが Formal sentence-initial ‘but’ or ‘however’. |
| 抱く だく, いだく To physically hold or embrace someone, or to harbor abstract feelings and ideas. | だく, いだく To physically hold or embrace someone, or to harbor abstract feelings and ideas. |
| だけでなく だけでなく Not only… but also… | だけでなく Not only… but also… |
| 出し
(だし)
だし Savory soup stock; a pretext or excuse used to conceal one’s true intentions. | だし Savory soup stock; a pretext or excuse used to conceal one’s true intentions. |
| 脱出 だっしゅつ Escape or breakout from a confined place or difficult situation | だっしゅつ Escape or breakout from a confined place or difficult situation |
| だって だって Informal ‘but’ or ‘because’ for excuses, ‘even’ for emphasis, or ‘I hear that’ for hearsay. | だって Informal ‘but’ or ‘because’ for excuses, ‘even’ for emphasis, or ‘I hear that’ for hearsay. |
| 騙す だます To trick, deceive, or cheat someone, or to soothe or coax a child. | だます To trick, deceive, or cheat someone, or to soothe or coax a child. |
| 黙る だまる To stop speaking, become silent, or keep quiet. | だまる To stop speaking, become silent, or keep quiet. |
| だらけ だらけ Suffix meaning covered in or riddled with something negative | だらけ Suffix meaning covered in or riddled with something negative |
| だらしない だらしない Sloppy, untidy, or undisciplined | だらしない Sloppy, untidy, or undisciplined |
| だらだら だらだら Lazily idling, dragging on, or dripping continuously | だらだら Lazily idling, dragging on, or dripping continuously |
| 段 だん Step, tier, rank, or grade | だん Step, tier, rank, or grade |
| 段階 だんかい A specific stage, phase, or level within a sequential process or development | だんかい A specific stage, phase, or level within a sequential process or development |
| 男性 だんせい Formal term for man or male | だんせい Formal term for man or male |
| 団体 だんたい An organized group, association, or body of people. | だんたい An organized group, association, or body of people. |
| 暖房 だんぼう Indoor heating | だんぼう Indoor heating |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 出 で Coming out, appearance, or place of origin. | で Coming out, appearance, or place of origin. |
| 出会い であい A significant first meeting, encounter, or discovery. | であい A significant first meeting, encounter, or discovery. |
| 出会う であう To meet by chance or encounter someone or something for the first time. | であう To meet by chance or encounter someone or something for the first time. |
| である である Formal, written form of “to be” or “is” | である Formal, written form of “to be” or “is” |
| 出入り でいり, ではいり Coming and going, regular dealings, or income and expenditure. | でいり, ではいり Coming and going, regular dealings, or income and expenditure. |
| 出来上がる できあがる To be fully completed, finished, or ready; to be very drunk | できあがる To be fully completed, finished, or ready; to be very drunk |
| 出来事 できごと An occurrence, incident, or happening. | できごと An occurrence, incident, or happening. |
| 弟子 でし, ていし Apprentice or disciple training under a master | でし, ていし Apprentice or disciple training under a master |
| 出直し でなおし Starting over from scratch or returning later | でなおし Starting over from scratch or returning later |
| 出前 でまえ Food delivery service provided directly by a restaurant. | でまえ Food delivery service provided directly by a restaurant. |
| でもない でもない Means ‘neither… nor…’ or ‘it is not that…’ to deny options or assumptions. | でもない Means ‘neither… nor…’ or ‘it is not that…’ to deny options or assumptions. |
| 伝記 でんき Biography; a written account of a person’s life. | でんき Biography; a written account of a person’s life. |
| 電球 でんきゅう Light bulb | でんきゅう Light bulb |
| 電源 でんげん Electrical power source or power button. | でんげん Electrical power source or power button. |
| 伝言 でんごん A message relayed through a third party. | でんごん A message relayed through a third party. |
| 電子 でんし Electronic, digital, or electron | でんし Electronic, digital, or electron |
| 伝説 でんせつ A traditional story passed down from the past, or a legendary person or event. | でんせつ A traditional story passed down from the past, or a legendary person or event. |
| 伝染 でんせん Contagion or spreading of a disease, emotion, or habit | でんせん Contagion or spreading of a disease, emotion, or habit |
| 電動 でんどう Operated by an electric motor | でんどう Operated by an electric motor |
| 電波 でんぱ Radio waves or cell signal; slang for nonsensical or eccentric behavior. | でんぱ Radio waves or cell signal; slang for nonsensical or eccentric behavior. |
| 電流 でんりゅう Electric current; the flow of electricity. | でんりゅう Electric current; the flow of electricity. |
| 電力 でんりょく Electric power as a large-scale resource or utility supply | でんりょく Electric power as a large-scale resource or utility supply |
| デート デート romantic date | デート romantic date |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 度 ど, たび Degrees on a scale, times occurring, or specific occasions. | ど, たび Degrees on a scale, times occurring, or specific occasions. |
| 同意 どうい Agreement or consent to a proposal or opinion. | どうい Agreement or consent to a proposal or opinion. |
| 同一 どういつ Identical, the same, or equality. | どういつ Identical, the same, or equality. |
| 如何か
(どうか)
どうか Earnest plea or wish; indicating something is strange or wrong. | どうか Earnest plea or wish; indicating something is strange or wrong. |
| 同級生 どうきゅうせい A person in the same academic grade or year. | どうきゅうせい A person in the same academic grade or year. |
| 同居 どうきょ Living together in the same household | どうきょ Living together in the same household |
| 動作 どうさ Physical movements, actions, or the operation of machinery and software. | どうさ Physical movements, actions, or the operation of machinery and software. |
| 同士 どうし Suffix indicating fellow members, mutual companions, or interaction among a specific group. | どうし Suffix indicating fellow members, mutual companions, or interaction among a specific group. |
| 動詞 どうし Verb (grammatical term) | どうし Verb (grammatical term) |
| 如何しても
(どうしても)
どうしても No matter what; by any means necessary or impossible despite one’s best efforts. | どうしても No matter what; by any means necessary or impossible despite one’s best efforts. |
| どうしようもない どうしようもない Hopeless, beyond help, or incorrigible | どうしようもない Hopeless, beyond help, or incorrigible |
| 同時 どうじ Simultaneous; occurring at the same time or immediately following. | どうじ Simultaneous; occurring at the same time or immediately following. |
| 同時に どうじに At the same time, simultaneously, or as soon as. | どうじに At the same time, simultaneously, or as soon as. |
| 同情 どうじょう Sympathy or pity for someone’s misfortune. | どうじょう Sympathy or pity for someone’s misfortune. |
| 道場 どうじょう Training hall for martial arts or spiritual practice. | どうじょう Training hall for martial arts or spiritual practice. |
| どうせ どうせ Anyway / after all (expressing resignation or inevitability) | どうせ Anyway / after all (expressing resignation or inevitability) |
| 同点 どうてん Tie score or equal points | どうてん Tie score or equal points |
| どうでも良い
(どうでもいい)
どうでもいい, どうでもよい Expression meaning ‘it doesn’t matter’ or ‘whatever,’ used to show either flexible neutrality or dismissive indifference. | どうでもいい, どうでもよい Expression meaning ‘it doesn’t matter’ or ‘whatever,’ used to show either flexible neutrality or dismissive indifference. |
| 道徳 どうとく Morals or the principles of right and wrong behavior. | どうとく Morals or the principles of right and wrong behavior. |
| 堂々 どうどう Magnificent, dignified, confident, or unashamedly open | どうどう Magnificent, dignified, confident, or unashamedly open |
| どうにか どうにか Somehow managing to do something; in one way or another | どうにか Somehow managing to do something; in one way or another |
| 如何にもならない
(どうにもならない)
どうにもならない Nothing can be done; a hopeless situation. | どうにもならない Nothing can be done; a hopeless situation. |
| 導入 どうにゅう Introduction, installation, or implementation. | どうにゅう Introduction, installation, or implementation. |
| どうやら どうやら Apparently or seemingly; alternatively, somehow or barely managing to accomplish something. | どうやら Apparently or seemingly; alternatively, somehow or barely managing to accomplish something. |
| 同様 どうよう Formal term for being identical, equal to, or similar. | どうよう Formal term for being identical, equal to, or similar. |
| 道理 どうり Reason, logic, principle, or natural order; no wonder. | どうり Reason, logic, principle, or natural order; no wonder. |
| 同僚 どうりょう Coworker or colleague of equal rank | どうりょう Coworker or colleague of equal rank |
| 道路 どうろ The standard, technical term for a paved road or highway intended for vehicle traffic. | どうろ The standard, technical term for a paved road or highway intended for vehicle traffic. |
| 童話 どうわ Children’s story or fairy tale | どうわ Children’s story or fairy tale |
| ドキッと どきっと A sudden heart thump caused by shock, alarm, or romantic attraction. | どきっと A sudden heart thump caused by shock, alarm, or romantic attraction. |
| ドキドキ どきどき Heart pounding due to excitement, nervousness, or fear | どきどき Heart pounding due to excitement, nervousness, or fear |
| 毒 どく Poison, toxin, or malice | どく Poison, toxin, or malice |
| 読者 どくしゃ reader; readership; the audience or subscriber base of a written work | どくしゃ reader; readership; the audience or subscriber base of a written work |
| 読書 どくしょ Reading books as a pastime or focused activity | どくしょ Reading books as a pastime or focused activity |
| 独身 どくしん A single or unmarried person. | どくしん A single or unmarried person. |
| 独特 どくとく distinctive, unique, or peculiar quality | どくとく distinctive, unique, or peculiar quality |
| 独立 どくりつ Independence, self-reliance, or being standalone. | どくりつ Independence, self-reliance, or being standalone. |
| 退ける
(どける)
どける, のける To move something aside, exclude it, or successfully pull off a difficult task. | どける, のける To move something aside, exclude it, or successfully pull off a difficult task. |
| 何処までも
(どこまでも)
どこまでも No matter how far, endlessly, or thoroughly | どこまでも No matter how far, endlessly, or thoroughly |
| どちらかと言うと どちらかというと If anything; if I had to say | どちらかというと If anything; if I had to say |
| どっと どっと A sudden, massive surge or outburst occurring all at once | どっと A sudden, massive surge or outburst occurring all at once |
| 土日 どにち Saturday and Sunday; the weekend | どにち Saturday and Sunday; the weekend |
| どの辺 どのへん General whereabouts or specific part of a matter | どのへん General whereabouts or specific part of a matter |
| どの様
(どのよう)
どのよう Formal and polite way to ask “how” or “what kind of”. | どのよう Formal and polite way to ask “how” or “what kind of”. |
| 努力 どりょく Sustained effort or hard work towards a goal | どりょく Sustained effort or hard work towards a goal |
| 何れ
(いずれ)
どれ, いずれ Which one (of many); eventually or sooner or later; in any case. | どれ, いずれ Which one (of many); eventually or sooner or later; in any case. |
| 何れ丈
(どれだけ)
どれだけ How much, how long, or to what extent. | どれだけ How much, how long, or to what extent. |
| 泥々
(どろどろ)
どろどろ Thick, muddy consistency or sordid, messy relationships. | どろどろ Thick, muddy consistency or sordid, messy relationships. |
| どんどん どんどん Rapidly and continuously; a loud drumming or banging sound. | どんどん Rapidly and continuously; a loud drumming or banging sound. |
| 丼 どんぶり, どん Deep serving bowl or a rice bowl dish | どんぶり, どん Deep serving bowl or a rice bowl dish |
| ドライ ドライ Physical dryness, a dry taste in alcohol, or a rational, unsentimental personality. | ドライ Physical dryness, a dry taste in alcohol, or a rational, unsentimental personality. |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 名 な Name, fame, or reputation. | な Name, fame, or reputation. |
| 内緒 ないしょ A personal or casual secret, privacy, or doing something in confidence | ないしょ A personal or casual secret, privacy, or doing something in confidence |
| 内部 ないぶ The interior or internal part of a structure, organization, or system | ないぶ The interior or internal part of a structure, organization, or system |
| 内容 ないよう Contents, substance, or subject matter | ないよう Contents, substance, or subject matter |
| 尚
(なお)
なお Still, even more, or furthermore. | なお Still, even more, or furthermore. |
| 直し なおし Correction or repair | なおし Correction or repair |
| 中でも なかでも Especially; particularly; among them. | なかでも Especially; particularly; among them. |
| 仲直り なかなおり Reconciliation or making up after a disagreement | なかなおり Reconciliation or making up after a disagreement |
| 半ば なかば Middle, halfway, or partly. | なかば Middle, halfway, or partly. |
| 仲間 なかま Comrade, fellow member, or belonging to the same category. | なかま Comrade, fellow member, or belonging to the same category. |
| 中身 なかみ Physical contents or abstract substance | なかみ Physical contents or abstract substance |
| 仲良く なかよく Getting along well or acting in a friendly, harmonious manner | なかよく Getting along well or acting in a friendly, harmonious manner |
| 仲良し なかよし Close friends; being on good terms | なかよし Close friends; being on good terms |
| 長生き ながいき Longevity or living a long life | ながいき Longevity or living a long life |
| 流す ながす To let flow, drain, wash away, broadcast, or spread. | ながす To let flow, drain, wash away, broadcast, or spread. |
| 長年 ながねん Many years; for a long time | ながねん Many years; for a long time |
| 眺め ながめ A view or scenery seen from a specific vantage point | ながめ A view or scenery seen from a specific vantage point |
| 眺める ながめる To gaze at, look out over, or watch passively. | ながめる To gaze at, look out over, or watch passively. |
| 長持ち ながもち Lasting a long time or maintaining good condition | ながもち Lasting a long time or maintaining good condition |
| 乍らも
(ながらも)
ながらも Although; despite; even while | ながらも Although; despite; even while |
| 流れ ながれ Flow, current, stream, or the progression of events. | ながれ Flow, current, stream, or the progression of events. |
| 泣き声 なきごえ The sound of crying or a tearful voice. | なきごえ The sound of crying or a tearful voice. |
| 無きゃいけない
(なきゃいけない)
なきゃいけない Must or have to; a spoken expression of obligation. | なきゃいけない Must or have to; a spoken expression of obligation. |
| 慰める なぐさめる To comfort or console someone. | なぐさめる To comfort or console someone. |
| 殴る なぐる To hit, strike, or punch someone, usually with a fist. | なぐる To hit, strike, or punch someone, usually with a fist. |
| 情けない なさけない Pathetic, miserable, or shameful; evoking disappointment or pity. | なさけない Pathetic, miserable, or shameful; evoking disappointment or pity. |
| 無し
(なし)
なし Without, none, or unacceptable | なし Without, none, or unacceptable |
| 何故か
(なぜか)
なぜか for some reason; somehow | なぜか for some reason; somehow |
| 何故なら
(なぜなら)
なぜなら The reason is; that is because | なぜなら The reason is; that is because |
| 何故ならば
(なぜならば)
なぜならば Formal conjunction meaning ‘the reason is’ or ‘this is because’. | なぜならば Formal conjunction meaning ‘the reason is’ or ‘this is because’. |
| 謎 なぞ A mystery, riddle, or puzzle. | なぞ A mystery, riddle, or puzzle. |
| 納得 なっとく Understanding and accepting something as reasonable; being convinced. | なっとく Understanding and accepting something as reasonable; being convinced. |
| 懐かしい なつかしい Nostalgic; bringing back fond memories. | なつかしい Nostalgic; bringing back fond memories. |
| 名付ける なづける To name; to give a name to someone or something. | なづける To name; to give a name to someone or something. |
| 斜め ななめ Diagonal, slanting, or tilted; figuratively refers to a sour mood. | ななめ Diagonal, slanting, or tilted; figuratively refers to a sour mood. |
| 何気なく なにげなく Casually, unintentionally, or without specific intent | なにげなく Casually, unintentionally, or without specific intent |
| 何事 なにごと What matter or event; what is going on; everything or anything. | なにごと What matter or event; what is going on; everything or anything. |
| 何者 なにもの Who or what kind of person someone is. | なにもの Who or what kind of person someone is. |
| 何より なにより More than anything else; above all. | なにより More than anything else; above all. |
| 鍋 なべ A deep cooking pot or the hot pot meal prepared within it. | なべ A deep cooking pot or the hot pot meal prepared within it. |
| 生意気 なまいき Cheeky, cocky, or impertinent attitude; acting arrogantly above one’s station | なまいき Cheeky, cocky, or impertinent attitude; acting arrogantly above one’s station |
| 怠ける なまける To be lazy, slack off, or neglect a responsibility. | なまける To be lazy, slack off, or neglect a responsibility. |
| 波 なみ A physical wave, fluctuation, or trend. | なみ A physical wave, fluctuation, or trend. |
| 涙 なみだ Tears; the liquid produced by the eyes when crying. | なみだ Tears; the liquid produced by the eyes when crying. |
| 悩み なやみ A personal worry, trouble, or source of distress. | なやみ A personal worry, trouble, or source of distress. |
| 悩む なやむ To be troubled or agonize over a problem or decision. | なやむ To be troubled or agonize over a problem or decision. |
| 鳴らす ならす To ring, sound, or cause an object to make a noise. | ならす To ring, sound, or cause an object to make a noise. |
| 並び ならび Line, row, or arrangement | ならび Line, row, or arrangement |
| 並び替える ならびかえる To rearrange items into a new order | ならびかえる To rearrange items into a new order |
| 成り立つ なりたつ To consist of components, hold true logically, or be practically viable. | なりたつ To consist of components, hold true logically, or be practically viable. |
| 生る
(なる)
なる To bear fruit | なる To bear fruit |
| 成るべく
(なるべく)
なるべく As much as possible or wherever practicable | なるべく As much as possible or wherever practicable |
| 成る程
(なるほど)
なるほど “I see,” “indeed,” or “that makes sense” | なるほど “I see,” “indeed,” or “that makes sense” |
| 慣れ なれ Familiarity, habituation, or the state of being used to something. | なれ Familiarity, habituation, or the state of being used to something. |
| 慣れる なれる To get used to, become accustomed to, or become skilled at something | なれる To get used to, become accustomed to, or become skilled at something |
| なんか なんか “Like,” “somehow,” or “something like”; used for vague feelings, casual examples, fillers, or to downplay significance. | なんか “Like,” “somehow,” or “something like”; used for vague feelings, casual examples, fillers, or to downplay significance. |
| 南極 なんきょく South Pole; Antarctica | なんきょく South Pole; Antarctica |
| 南国 なんごく Southern countries or regions characterized by a warm, tropical climate. | なんごく Southern countries or regions characterized by a warm, tropical climate. |
| 何十 なんじゅう Tens of; dozens of | なんじゅう Tens of; dozens of |
| なんて なんて Things like, what a, or to think that; conveys surprise, admiration, or disdain. | なんて Things like, what a, or to think that; conveys surprise, admiration, or disdain. |
| 何と
(なんと)
なんと Exclamation of surprise like ‘What a…!’ or a formal ‘what’ or ‘how’. | なんと Exclamation of surprise like ‘What a…!’ or a formal ‘what’ or ‘how’. |
| 何と言うか なんというか Conversational filler meaning how should I put it. | なんというか Conversational filler meaning how should I put it. |
| 何とか なんとか Somehow managing to do something, or referring to an unspecified ‘something-or-other’. | なんとか Somehow managing to do something, or referring to an unspecified ‘something-or-other’. |
| 何となく
(なんとなく)
なんとなく Somehow, vaguely, or for no particular reason. | なんとなく Somehow, vaguely, or for no particular reason. |
| 何とも なんとも Not at all or nothing when negative, otherwise indescribably or beyond words. | なんとも Not at all or nothing when negative, otherwise indescribably or beyond words. |
| 南米 なんべい South America | なんべい South America |
| 南北 なんぼく North and south directions, or North and South Korea. | なんぼく North and south directions, or North and South Korea. |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 荷 に Physical cargo, luggage, or a metaphorical burden. | に Physical cargo, luggage, or a metaphorical burden. |
| 似合い にあい A good match or suitable combination, often used to describe couples or outfits. | にあい A good match or suitable combination, often used to describe couples or outfits. |
| 似合う にあう To suit or look good on someone (regarding clothing, style, or appearance). | にあう To suit or look good on someone (regarding clothing, style, or appearance). |
| 匂い におい Smell, scent, or odor; figuratively, a hint or aura. | におい Smell, scent, or odor; figuratively, a hint or aura. |
| に於いて
(において)
において Formal equivalent of ‘in,’ ‘at,’ or ‘on’ marking a time, place, or context. | において Formal equivalent of ‘in,’ ‘at,’ or ‘on’ marking a time, place, or context. |
| 匂う におう To give off a scent, smell bad, or seem suspicious | におう To give off a scent, smell bad, or seem suspicious |
| に於ける
(における)
における Formal equivalent of ‘in’ or ‘at’ indicating a specific place, time, or context. | における Formal equivalent of ‘in’ or ‘at’ indicating a specific place, time, or context. |
| に限って にかぎって Expression meaning ‘of all [times/people],’ used to highlight bad timing or defend character. | にかぎって Expression meaning ‘of all [times/people],’ used to highlight bad timing or defend character. |
| にかけて にかけて Extending across a range of time or space; when it comes to a specific area of expertise | にかけて Extending across a range of time or space; when it comes to a specific area of expertise |
| に関して にかんして Formal expression meaning regarding or concerning a topic | にかんして Formal expression meaning regarding or concerning a topic |
| 苦い にがい A bitter taste or a painful, unpleasant experience. | にがい A bitter taste or a painful, unpleasant experience. |
| 苦手 にがて Being poor at a skill or finding something hard to deal with. | にがて Being poor at a skill or finding something hard to deal with. |
| 握り にぎり A grip, handle, handful, or hand-pressed sushi. | にぎり A grip, handle, handful, or hand-pressed sushi. |
| 握る にぎる To grasp an object tightly, shape food by hand, or hold power or a secret. | にぎる To grasp an object tightly, shape food by hand, or hold power or a secret. |
| 憎しみ にくしみ Deep hatred or intense animosity. | にくしみ Deep hatred or intense animosity. |
| 肉体 にくたい The physical body or flesh, distinct from the mind or spirit | にくたい The physical body or flesh, distinct from the mind or spirit |
| 肉体的 にくたいてき Physical, bodily, or carnal | にくたいてき Physical, bodily, or carnal |
| 憎む にくむ To deeply hate, detest, or loathe. | にくむ To deeply hate, detest, or loathe. |
| に加えて にくわえて in addition to; on top of | にくわえて in addition to; on top of |
| 逃げ出す にげだす To run away, flee, or break out. | にげだす To run away, flee, or break out. |
| ニコニコ にこにこ Smiling in a happy, friendly manner | にこにこ Smiling in a happy, friendly manner |
| 煮込む にこむ To stew or simmer thoroughly. | にこむ To stew or simmer thoroughly. |
| に従って にしたがって In accordance with; as one thing changes, so does another. | にしたがって In accordance with; as one thing changes, so does another. |
| にしても にしても Even if, granted that, or regardless of whether. | にしても Even if, granted that, or regardless of whether. |
| 二重 にじゅう, ふたえ Double, two-layered, or double eyelid | にじゅう, ふたえ Double, two-layered, or double eyelid |
| に対して にたいして Indicates a target of action or attitude, or highlights a direct contrast. | にたいして Indicates a target of action or attitude, or highlights a direct contrast. |
| に対する にたいする Marks a target regarding an action or attitude, or expresses a direct contrast. | にたいする Marks a target regarding an action or attitude, or expresses a direct contrast. |
| 日時 にちじ The specific date and time of an event. | にちじ The specific date and time of an event. |
| 日常 にちじょう Ordinary everyday life or daily routine. | にちじょう Ordinary everyday life or daily routine. |
| 日用品 にちようひん Daily necessities and consumable household goods | にちようひん Daily necessities and consumable household goods |
| 日給 にっきゅう Daily wage | にっきゅう Daily wage |
| 日光浴 にっこうよく Sunbathing or basking in the sun | にっこうよく Sunbathing or basking in the sun |
| にっこり にっこり Breaking into a broad, happy smile | にっこり Breaking into a broad, happy smile |
| 日数 にっすう, ひかず The number of days | にっすう, ひかず The number of days |
| 日中 にっちゅう Daytime, or relating to Japan and China. | にっちゅう Daytime, or relating to Japan and China. |
| 日程 にってい Schedule, itinerary, or agenda | にってい Schedule, itinerary, or agenda |
| 荷造り にづくり Packing items into luggage or boxes for travel, moving, or shipment. | にづくり Packing items into luggage or boxes for travel, moving, or shipment. |
| に取って
(にとって)
にとって For; from the standpoint of | にとって For; from the standpoint of |
| 二度と にどと Never again (used with a negative verb) | にどと Never again (used with a negative verb) |
| 二人前 ににんまえ Portion for two people or doing the work of two | ににんまえ Portion for two people or doing the work of two |
| 日本酒 にほんしゅ Japanese rice wine | にほんしゅ Japanese rice wine |
| 入荷 にゅうか Arrival of goods or restocking | にゅうか Arrival of goods or restocking |
| 入会 にゅうかい Becoming a member of an association or group. | にゅうかい Becoming a member of an association or group. |
| 入金 にゅうきん Deposit or receipt of payment. | にゅうきん Deposit or receipt of payment. |
| 入国 にゅうこく Entering a country; entry or immigration. | にゅうこく Entering a country; entry or immigration. |
| 入試 にゅうし Entrance exam | にゅうし Entrance exam |
| 入社 にゅうしゃ joining a company | にゅうしゃ joining a company |
| 入手 にゅうしゅ Obtaining, acquiring, or procuring. | にゅうしゅ Obtaining, acquiring, or procuring. |
| 入場 にゅうじょう Entry or admission into a venue or event space | にゅうじょう Entry or admission into a venue or event space |
| 入門 にゅうもん Entering a discipline as a student or an introductory guide for beginners | にゅうもん Entering a discipline as a student or an introductory guide for beginners |
| 入浴 にゅうよく Formal term for bathing or taking a bath. | にゅうよく Formal term for bathing or taking a bath. |
| 入力 にゅうりょく Input; data entry | にゅうりょく Input; data entry |
| に因って
(によって)
によって Indicates cause, means, dependency, or passive agent. | によって Indicates cause, means, dependency, or passive agent. |
| に依る
(による)
による Indicates cause, means, source, or dependency. | による Indicates cause, means, source, or dependency. |
| 似る にる To resemble or be similar to someone or something | にる To resemble or be similar to someone or something |
| 煮る にる To simmer or stew food in a seasoned liquid. | にる To simmer or stew food in a seasoned liquid. |
| に渡って
(にわたって)
にわたって throughout; over a span of; extending across | にわたって throughout; over a span of; extending across |
| 任 にん, まか Entrusting, responsibility, or duty. | にん, まか Entrusting, responsibility, or duty. |
| 人形 にんぎょう A human-shaped figure, such as a doll, puppet, or mannequin. | にんぎょう A human-shaped figure, such as a doll, puppet, or mannequin. |
| 人間 にんげん Human being, mankind, or a person’s character. | にんげん Human being, mankind, or a person’s character. |
| 妊娠 にんしん The standard, neutral term for pregnancy. | にんしん The standard, neutral term for pregnancy. |
| 大蒜
(にんにく)
にんにく Garlic | にんにく Garlic |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 縫い目 ぬいめ A seam or stitch formed by sewing. | ぬいめ A seam or stitch formed by sewing. |
| 縫う ぬう To sew or stitch; to weave through a crowd. | ぬう To sew or stitch; to weave through a crowd. |
| 抜く ぬく To pull out, remove, skip, overtake, or do something to the very end. | ぬく To pull out, remove, skip, overtake, or do something to the very end. |
| 抜ける ぬける To come out, fall out, pass through, leave, or be missing. | ぬける To come out, fall out, pass through, leave, or be missing. |
| 盗み ぬすみ Stealing or theft | ぬすみ Stealing or theft |
| 布 ぬの, ふ Cloth, fabric, or textile material. | ぬの, ふ Cloth, fabric, or textile material. |
| 塗る ぬる To paint, spread, or apply a substance onto a surface | ぬる To paint, spread, or apply a substance onto a surface |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 値上げ ねあげ Price increase or hike | ねあげ Price increase or hike |
| 寝かせる ねかせる To put to sleep, lay flat, or let rest. | ねかせる To put to sleep, lay flat, or let rest. |
| 願い ねがい A wish, hope, request, or prayer. | ねがい A wish, hope, request, or prayer. |
| 願う ねがう To wish for a desired outcome or to formally request a favor. | ねがう To wish for a desired outcome or to formally request a favor. |
| 鼠
(ねずみ)
ねずみ Mouse, rat, or dark gray. | ねずみ Mouse, rat, or dark gray. |
| 熱心 ねっしん Enthusiastic, dedicated, or eager | ねっしん Enthusiastic, dedicated, or eager |
| 粘々
(ねばねば)
ねばねば Sticky, slimy, or gooey consistency. | ねばねば Sticky, slimy, or gooey consistency. |
| 寝不足 ねぶそく Lack of sleep or sleep deprivation | ねぶそく Lack of sleep or sleep deprivation |
| 眠気 ねむけ Sleepiness or drowsiness | ねむけ Sleepiness or drowsiness |
| 眠り ねむり The state of sleep, dormancy, or eternal rest. | ねむり The state of sleep, dormancy, or eternal rest. |
| 眠る ねむる To be asleep; to lie dormant or unused; to rest in peace. | ねむる To be asleep; to lie dormant or unused; to rest in peace. |
| 狙い ねらい Aim, objective, or intention. | ねらい Aim, objective, or intention. |
| 狙う ねらう To aim at a target or pursue a goal | ねらう To aim at a target or pursue a goal |
| 念 ねん A deep feeling, persistent thought, or careful precaution. | ねん A deep feeling, persistent thought, or careful precaution. |
| 年間 ねんかん A period of one year; annual or yearly. | ねんかん A period of one year; annual or yearly. |
| 年賀 ねんが New Year’s greetings or celebration | ねんが New Year’s greetings or celebration |
| 年月日 ねんがっぴ The full date (year, month, and day), used primarily in formal writing and documents. | ねんがっぴ The full date (year, month, and day), used primarily in formal writing and documents. |
| 年月 ねんげつ, としつき Months and years; a long period of time. | ねんげつ, としつき Months and years; a long period of time. |
| 年始 ねんし The beginning of the year. | ねんし The beginning of the year. |
| 年中 ねんじゅう, ねんちゅう All year round, constantly, or a second-year kindergarten student. | ねんじゅう, ねんちゅう All year round, constantly, or a second-year kindergarten student. |
| 年代 ねんだい A decade, generation, or historical era. | ねんだい A decade, generation, or historical era. |
| 年度 ねんど Fiscal or academic year. | ねんど Fiscal or academic year. |
| 年々 ねんねん, としどし Year by year; changing gradually over time. | ねんねん, としどし Year by year; changing gradually over time. |
| 念のため ねんのため Just in case; just to make sure. | ねんのため Just in case; just to make sure. |
| 年配 ねんぱい Elderly or relatively older in age | ねんぱい Elderly or relatively older in age |
| 年末 ねんまつ The end of the year; year-end. | ねんまつ The end of the year; year-end. |
| 燃料 ねんりょう Fuel; material consumed to produce energy or heat. | ねんりょう Fuel; material consumed to produce energy or heat. |
| 年齢 ねんれい Age, specifically in formal or official contexts | ねんれい Age, specifically in formal or official contexts |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 野 の, や Field, plain, or wild; political opposition. | の, や Field, plain, or wild; political opposition. |
| 能 のう Noh theater; ability or capacity | のう Noh theater; ability or capacity |
| 脳 のう The physical brain organ or the mind and intellect | のう The physical brain organ or the mind and intellect |
| 農家 のうか Farmer, farming family, or farmhouse | のうか Farmer, farming family, or farmhouse |
| 農業 のうぎょう Agriculture; the farming industry. | のうぎょう Agriculture; the farming industry. |
| 農場 のうじょう A farm or agricultural estate | のうじょう A farm or agricultural estate |
| 農民 のうみん Farmers or peasants, specifically regarding the social class or collective group. | のうみん Farmers or peasants, specifically regarding the social class or collective group. |
| 能力 のうりょく Ability, capability, or power to perform a function or task. | のうりょく Ability, capability, or power to perform a function or task. |
| 残す のこす To leave something behind, save for later, or pass down to others. | のこす To leave something behind, save for later, or pass down to others. |
| 残り のこり The remainder, leftovers, or the rest. | のこり The remainder, leftovers, or the rest. |
| 残る のこる To remain, be left over, or stay behind | のこる To remain, be left over, or stay behind |
| 除いて のぞいて Except for; excluding. | のぞいて Except for; excluding. |
| 除く のぞく To remove, eliminate, or exclude. | のぞく To remove, eliminate, or exclude. |
| 覗く
(のぞく)
のぞく Peek into, briefly drop by, or partially stick out. | のぞく Peek into, briefly drop by, or partially stick out. |
| 望み のぞみ A personal hope, wish, or the prospect of realization. | のぞみ A personal hope, wish, or the prospect of realization. |
| 望む のぞむ To desire or hope for; to overlook or face a view. | のぞむ To desire or hope for; to overlook or face a view. |
| の度に
(のたびに)
のたびに every time; whenever; on each occasion | のたびに every time; whenever; on each occasion |
| 野原 のはら A natural, open field or meadow. | のはら A natural, open field or meadow. |
| 伸ばす のばす To lengthen, stretch, extend, grow, or develop. | のばす To lengthen, stretch, extend, grow, or develop. |
| 伸び のび Growth, improvement, stretching, or spreadability. | のび Growth, improvement, stretching, or spreadability. |
| 伸びる のびる To stretch, grow, improve, or become soggy | のびる To stretch, grow, improve, or become soggy |
| 述べる のべる To formally state or express an opinion, fact, or thought. | のべる To formally state or express an opinion, fact, or thought. |
| 上り のぼり Ascent, uphill slope, or inbound traffic. | のぼり Ascent, uphill slope, or inbound traffic. |
| のみ のみ A formal, written particle meaning ‘only’ or ‘just’. | のみ A formal, written particle meaning ‘only’ or ‘just’. |
| 飲み込む のみこむ To physically swallow, mentally grasp, suppress emotions, or completely engulf. | のみこむ To physically swallow, mentally grasp, suppress emotions, or completely engulf. |
| 海苔 のり Dried edible seaweed sheets used for wrapping sushi and rice balls. | のり Dried edible seaweed sheets used for wrapping sushi and rice balls. |
| 糊 のり Glue, paste, or laundry starch. | のり Glue, paste, or laundry starch. |
| 乗り遅れる のりおくれる To miss a form of transport or fall behind a trend | のりおくれる To miss a form of transport or fall behind a trend |
| 乗組員 のりくみいん Crew member of a ship, plane, or spacecraft | のりくみいん Crew member of a ship, plane, or spacecraft |
| 乗り越える のりこえる To climb over a physical obstacle, overcome a hardship, or surpass a limit. | のりこえる To climb over a physical obstacle, overcome a hardship, or surpass a limit. |
| 乗り込む のりこむ To board a vehicle or storm into a place. | のりこむ To board a vehicle or storm into a place. |
| のろのろ のろのろ Sluggish, dawdling, or inefficiently slow movement | のろのろ Sluggish, dawdling, or inefficiently slow movement |
| のんびり のんびり Relaxed, leisurely, and unhurried; taking it easy | のんびり Relaxed, leisurely, and unhurried; taking it easy |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 葉 は, よう Leaf or blade of grass | は, よう Leaf or blade of grass |
| 灰 はい Ash; the powdery gray residue left after burning. | はい Ash; the powdery gray residue left after burning. |
| 背景 はいけい Physical background scenery, or the underlying context and circumstances of a situation. | はいけい Physical background scenery, or the underlying context and circumstances of a situation. |
| 拝見 はいけん To humbly look at or see. | はいけん To humbly look at or see. |
| 配布 はいふ Distributing or handing out documents, flyers, or samples to a group. | はいふ Distributing or handing out documents, flyers, or samples to a group. |
| 俳優 はいゆう A gender-neutral term for an actor or performer. | はいゆう A gender-neutral term for an actor or performer. |
| 入り込む はいりこむ, いりこむ To go deep into, penetrate, or become complicated | はいりこむ, いりこむ To go deep into, penetrate, or become complicated |
| 墓 はか Grave; tomb | はか Grave; tomb |
| 破壊 はかい Destruction, demolition, or complete ruining of something physical or abstract. | はかい Destruction, demolition, or complete ruining of something physical or abstract. |
| 計る はかる To measure time, temperature, or numerical quantities. | はかる To measure time, temperature, or numerical quantities. |
| 吐き気 はきけ Nausea or the sensation of needing to vomit | はきけ Nausea or the sensation of needing to vomit |
| 吐く はく, つく To vomit, exhale, or tell a lie. | はく, つく To vomit, exhale, or tell a lie. |
| 博士 はくし, はかせ Doctorate holder or subject expert | はくし, はかせ Doctorate holder or subject expert |
| 拍手 はくしゅ Clapping hands for applause or prayer. | はくしゅ Clapping hands for applause or prayer. |
| 博覧会 はくらんかい Large-scale exhibition, expo, or world’s fair. | はくらんかい Large-scale exhibition, expo, or world’s fair. |
| 激しい はげしい Intense, violent, or extreme | はげしい Intense, violent, or extreme |
| 励ます はげます To encourage, cheer up, or lift spirits. | はげます To encourage, cheer up, or lift spirits. |
| 運び はこび Transport, footwork, or the progress and flow of events. | はこび Transport, footwork, or the progress and flow of events. |
| 挟む はさむ To hold between, insert, pinch, or sandwich. | はさむ To hold between, insert, pinch, or sandwich. |
| 走り はしり The act or style of running, or the first produce of the season | はしり The act or style of running, or the first produce of the season |
| 恥 はじ Shame, disgrace, or humiliation. | はじ Shame, disgrace, or humiliation. |
| 始まり はじまり The beginning, start, or origin. | はじまり The beginning, start, or origin. |
| 外す はずす To remove, unfasten, step away, exclude, or miss a target. | はずす To remove, unfasten, step away, exclude, or miss a target. |
| 外れ はずれ The outskirts or edge; a miss, failure, or losing result. | はずれ The outskirts or edge; a miss, failure, or losing result. |
| 外れる はずれる To become detached, miss a target, or be excluded. | はずれる To become detached, miss a target, or be excluded. |
| 旗 はた Flag or banner. | はた Flag or banner. |
| 果たして はたして As expected, or really (in questions) | はたして As expected, or really (in questions) |
| 果たす はたす To fulfill, accomplish, or carry out a duty or goal. | はたす To fulfill, accomplish, or carry out a duty or goal. |
| 働き はたらき Work, function, operation, or effect | はたらき Work, function, operation, or effect |
| 肌 はだ, はだえ Human skin, the surface texture of an object, or a person’s temperament. | はだ, はだえ Human skin, the surface texture of an object, or a person’s temperament. |
| 裸 はだか Nakedness, bareness, or the state of being uncovered. | はだか Nakedness, bareness, or the state of being uncovered. |
| 裸足 はだし Barefoot; also denotes skill surpassing a professional. | はだし Barefoot; also denotes skill surpassing a professional. |
| 発見 はっけん Discovery or detection of something previously unknown | はっけん Discovery or detection of something previously unknown |
| 発行 はっこう Official issuance or publication of documents, cards, or books | はっこう Official issuance or publication of documents, cards, or books |
| 発車 はっしゃ Departure of a vehicle, such as a train or bus | はっしゃ Departure of a vehicle, such as a train or bus |
| 発信 はっしん Sending out signals, messages, or information | はっしん Sending out signals, messages, or information |
| 発生 はっせい Occurrence, outbreak, or generation | はっせい Occurrence, outbreak, or generation |
| 発送 はっそう Shipping or sending out | はっそう Shipping or sending out |
| 発達 はったつ Development or advancement of functions, systems, or capabilities. | はったつ Development or advancement of functions, systems, or capabilities. |
| 発展 はってん Development, growth, expansion, or advancement. | はってん Development, growth, expansion, or advancement. |
| 葉っぱ はっぱ The common, conversational word for a leaf. | はっぱ The common, conversational word for a leaf. |
| 発表 はっぴょう Formal announcement or presentation. | はっぴょう Formal announcement or presentation. |
| 初 はつ, うい A prefix indicating the first or new instance of something. | はつ, うい A prefix indicating the first or new instance of something. |
| 発言 はつげん Formal statement, remark, or the act of speaking up in a public context. | はつげん Formal statement, remark, or the act of speaking up in a public context. |
| 初恋 はつこい A person’s first romantic love or youthful crush. | はつこい A person’s first romantic love or youthful crush. |
| 発電 はつでん generation of electricity | はつでん generation of electricity |
| 発熱 はつねつ Developing a fever or generating heat | はつねつ Developing a fever or generating heat |
| 発売 はつばい Product launch; release for sale | はつばい Product launch; release for sale |
| 発明 はつめい Invention; the creation of a new device, method, or concept. | はつめい Invention; the creation of a new device, method, or concept. |
| 果てしない はてしない Endless, boundless, or without limit. | はてしない Endless, boundless, or without limit. |
| 派手 はで Flashy, showy, or loud in appearance or behavior. | はで Flashy, showy, or loud in appearance or behavior. |
| 話し合い はなしあい Discussion to resolve an issue or reach an agreement | はなしあい Discussion to resolve an issue or reach an agreement |
| 話し合う はなしあう To discuss or talk over together | はなしあう To discuss or talk over together |
| 話しかける はなしかける To start talking to someone or initiate a conversation. | はなしかける To start talking to someone or initiate a conversation. |
| 離す はなす Separating things, releasing a hold, or looking away. | はなす Separating things, releasing a hold, or looking away. |
| 放す はなす To let go, release, or set free. | はなす To let go, release, or set free. |
| 花束 はなたば A bouquet or bunch of flowers. | はなたば A bouquet or bunch of flowers. |
| 花びら はなびら Flower petal | はなびら Flower petal |
| 離れる はなれる To separate from, move away from, or become distant. | はなれる To separate from, move away from, or become distant. |
| 羽 はね, わ Feather, wing, mechanical blade, or counter for birds | はね, わ Feather, wing, mechanical blade, or counter for birds |
| 母親 ははおや Mother (referring to the objective role, category, or biological relationship) | ははおや Mother (referring to the objective role, category, or biological relationship) |
| 浜辺 はまべ Beach or seashore | はまべ Beach or seashore |
| 林 はやし Woods, grove, or a common surname. | はやし Woods, grove, or a common surname. |
| 早まる はやまる To happen earlier than planned, act hastily, or speed up. | はやまる To happen earlier than planned, act hastily, or speed up. |
| 早める はやめる To move to an earlier time or speed up a process | はやめる To move to an earlier time or speed up a process |
| 流行る はやる To be popular, trendy, or spread widely (like an illness). | はやる To be popular, trendy, or spread widely (like an illness). |
| 腹 はら The physical belly or abdomen, often serving as the metaphorical seat of true intentions, anger, and spirit. | はら The physical belly or abdomen, often serving as the metaphorical seat of true intentions, anger, and spirit. |
| 払い込む はらいこむ To pay into an account or settle a bill | はらいこむ To pay into an account or settle a bill |
| ハラハラ はらはら Nervous suspense; light objects fluttering or trickling down | はらはら Nervous suspense; light objects fluttering or trickling down |
| 針 はり Needle, pin, stinger, or clock hand | はり Needle, pin, stinger, or clock hand |
| 張り切る はりきる To be enthusiastic, high-spirited, or full of energy. | はりきる To be enthusiastic, high-spirited, or full of energy. |
| 張る はる To stretch, tighten, stick, or swell. | はる To stretch, tighten, stick, or swell. |
| 反 はん Anti, against, opposite, or reverse. | はん Anti, against, opposite, or reverse. |
| 範囲 はんい Range, scope, or extent. | はんい Range, scope, or extent. |
| 半額 はんがく Half price | はんがく Half price |
| 半月 はんげつ, はんつき Half a month or a half-moon shape. | はんげつ, はんつき Half a month or a half-moon shape. |
| 判子 はんこ Personal seal or stamp used in place of a signature | はんこ Personal seal or stamp used in place of a signature |
| 犯罪 はんざい Crime; an illegal act or offense against the law. | はんざい Crime; an illegal act or offense against the law. |
| 反射 はんしゃ Reflection (of light or sound) or automatic physical reflex | はんしゃ Reflection (of light or sound) or automatic physical reflex |
| 反する はんする To go against, violate, or contradict rules, expectations, or principles. | はんする To go against, violate, or contradict rules, expectations, or principles. |
| 反省 はんせい self-reflection on mistakes and feeling remorse | はんせい self-reflection on mistakes and feeling remorse |
| 反対 はんたい Opposition to an idea, or the opposite side or direction. | はんたい Opposition to an idea, or the opposite side or direction. |
| 判断 はんだん Judgment, decision, or conclusion based on evaluation. | はんだん Judgment, decision, or conclusion based on evaluation. |
| 半島 はんとう Peninsula | はんとう Peninsula |
| 犯人 はんにん The specific person responsible for a crime or misdeed | はんにん The specific person responsible for a crime or misdeed |
| 販売 はんばい Commercial sales or selling | はんばい Commercial sales or selling |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 費 ひ Cost, fee, or expense | ひ Cost, fee, or expense |
| 日当たり ひあたり Exposure to sunlight, or a daily rate. | ひあたり Exposure to sunlight, or a daily rate. |
| 冷え ひえ Internal chill or sensitivity to cold due to poor circulation | ひえ Internal chill or sensitivity to cold due to poor circulation |
| 比較 ひかく Comparison; the act of comparing items to analyze similarities and differences. | ひかく Comparison; the act of comparing items to analyze similarities and differences. |
| 比較的 ひかくてき Relatively; comparatively. | ひかくてき Relatively; comparatively. |
| 光 ひかり Physical light, illumination, or metaphorical hope. | ひかり Physical light, illumination, or metaphorical hope. |
| 光る ひかる To shine, glitter, or stand out. | ひかる To shine, glitter, or stand out. |
| 被害 ひがい Damage, harm, or injury sustained from a disaster, crime, or accident | ひがい Damage, harm, or injury sustained from a disaster, crime, or accident |
| 被害者 ひがいしゃ Victim (of a crime, accident, or disaster) | ひがいしゃ Victim (of a crime, accident, or disaster) |
| 日帰り ひがえり Day trip; returning on the same day without an overnight stay. | ひがえり Day trip; returning on the same day without an overnight stay. |
| 日替わり ひがわり Daily special; changing daily. | ひがわり Daily special; changing daily. |
| 引き受ける ひきうける To take on a task or responsibility, inherit a role, or act as a guarantor. | ひきうける To take on a task or responsibility, inherit a role, or act as a guarantor. |
| 引き起こす ひきおこす To cause or trigger a serious event; to physically pull something upright. | ひきおこす To cause or trigger a serious event; to physically pull something upright. |
| 引き出す ひきだす To pull out physically, withdraw money, or elicit hidden qualities. | ひきだす To pull out physically, withdraw money, or elicit hidden qualities. |
| 引き続き ひきつづき continuously; without interruption; next | ひきつづき continuously; without interruption; next |
| 引き止める ひきとめる To detain, hold back, or stop someone from leaving. | ひきとめる To detain, hold back, or stop someone from leaving. |
| 卑怯 ひきょう Cowardly, unfair, or underhanded | ひきょう Cowardly, unfair, or underhanded |
| 引き分け ひきわけ A draw or tie in a game or match. | ひきわけ A draw or tie in a game or match. |
| 日暮れ ひぐれ Dusk, twilight, or the time of sunset. | ひぐれ Dusk, twilight, or the time of sunset. |
| 髭
(ひげ)
ひげ Beard, mustache, or whiskers | ひげ Beard, mustache, or whiskers |
| 久しい ひさしい Long time having passed | ひさしい Long time having passed |
| 膝 ひざ Knee joint or lap when sitting | ひざ Knee joint or lap when sitting |
| 秘書 ひしょ Private secretary or executive assistant | ひしょ Private secretary or executive assistant |
| 非常 ひじょう Emergency or crisis; extremely or very. | ひじょう Emergency or crisis; extremely or very. |
| 非常識 ひじょうしき Lacking common sense; absurd or unreasonable. | ひじょうしき Lacking common sense; absurd or unreasonable. |
| 額 ひたい, がく Forehead, frame, or sum of money | ひたい, がく Forehead, frame, or sum of money |
| 筆記用具 ひっきようぐ Writing utensils or writing implements. | ひっきようぐ Writing utensils or writing implements. |
| ひっくり返る ひっくりかえる, ひっくりがえる To turn upside down or topple over | ひっくりかえる, ひっくりがえる To turn upside down or topple over |
| 引っ込む ひっこむ To pull back, sink inward, or withdraw from a situation | ひっこむ To pull back, sink inward, or withdraw from a situation |
| 必死 ひっし Frantic, desperate effort or inevitable death. | ひっし Frantic, desperate effort or inevitable death. |
| 引っ張る ひっぱる To pull, drag, lead someone, or prolong a situation. | ひっぱる To pull, drag, lead someone, or prolong a situation. |
| 日付 ひづけ Calendar date | ひづけ Calendar date |
| 否定 ひてい Denial, negation, or rejection of a statement or claim. | ひてい Denial, negation, or rejection of a statement or claim. |
| 一息 ひといき A short breather, a single continuous burst, or a final push. | ひといき A short breather, a single continuous burst, or a final push. |
| 一口 ひとくち A single bite or sip, a brief summary, or one unit of a contribution. | ひとくち A single bite or sip, a brief summary, or one unit of a contribution. |
| 一言 ひとこと A single word or a brief comment. | ひとこと A single word or a brief comment. |
| 人殺し ひとごろし Murder or murderer (blunt/accusatory term) | ひとごろし Murder or murderer (blunt/accusatory term) |
| 等しい ひとしい Equal in value, degree, or status; tantamount to. | ひとしい Equal in value, degree, or status; tantamount to. |
| 一つ一つ ひとつひとつ One by one, individually, or separately. | ひとつひとつ One by one, individually, or separately. |
| 人通り ひとどおり Pedestrian traffic; the flow or volume of people walking along a street. | ひとどおり Pedestrian traffic; the flow or volume of people walking along a street. |
| 一晩 ひとばん one night or all night long | ひとばん one night or all night long |
| 一晩中 ひとばんじゅう All night long; throughout the night | ひとばんじゅう All night long; throughout the night |
| 人前 ひとまえ, にんまえ In public or in the presence of others; a serving or portion of food. | ひとまえ, にんまえ In public or in the presence of others; a serving or portion of food. |
| 一目 ひとめ A single glance, look, or complete view. | ひとめ A single glance, look, or complete view. |
| 一休み ひとやすみ A short break or breather | ひとやすみ A short break or breather |
| 一人暮らし ひとりぐらし Living alone or living by oneself | ひとりぐらし Living alone or living by oneself |
| 独り言 ひとりごと Talking to oneself; a monologue | ひとりごと Talking to oneself; a monologue |
| 酷い
(ひどい)
ひどい Extremely bad, severe, or cruel. | ひどい Extremely bad, severe, or cruel. |
| 避難 ひなん Evacuation or taking refuge to escape danger. | ひなん Evacuation or taking refuge to escape danger. |
| 皮肉 ひにく Irony, sarcasm, or a cynical twist of fate. | ひにく Irony, sarcasm, or a cynical twist of fate. |
| 日にち ひにち The date or number of days | ひにち The date or number of days |
| 日に日に ひにひに Day by day, indicating gradual change or progression. | ひにひに Day by day, indicating gradual change or progression. |
| 日の入り ひのいり The specific time or event of sunset. | ひのいり The specific time or event of sunset. |
| 日々 ひび, にちにち Day to day, daily life, or the succession of days. | ひび, にちにち Day to day, daily life, or the succession of days. |
| 皮膚 ひふ The formal, medical, or anatomical term for skin. | ひふ The formal, medical, or anatomical term for skin. |
| 暇つぶし ひまつぶし Killing time or an activity to pass the time. | ひまつぶし Killing time or an activity to pass the time. |
| 秘密 ひみつ Something intentionally kept hidden, confidential, or unknown to others. | ひみつ Something intentionally kept hidden, confidential, or unknown to others. |
| 紐 ひも String, cord, or lace; slang for a kept man. | ひも String, cord, or lace; slang for a kept man. |
| 百科事典 ひゃっかじてん Encyclopedia | ひゃっかじてん Encyclopedia |
| 百貨店 ひゃっかてん Formal term for a department store. | ひゃっかてん Formal term for a department store. |
| 日焼け ひやけ Sunburn, suntan, or the fading of objects caused by sunlight. | ひやけ Sunburn, suntan, or the fading of objects caused by sunlight. |
| 日焼け止め ひやけどめ Sunscreen or sunblock. | ひやけどめ Sunscreen or sunblock. |
| 票 ひょう Vote, ballot, or slip. | ひょう Vote, ballot, or slip. |
| 評 ひょう Evaluation, review, or reputation. | ひょう Evaluation, review, or reputation. |
| 評価 ひょうか Evaluation, rating, or recognition of value | ひょうか Evaluation, rating, or recognition of value |
| 表現 ひょうげん Expression, representation, or the act of putting thoughts into a tangible form. | ひょうげん Expression, representation, or the act of putting thoughts into a tangible form. |
| 表紙 ひょうし Front cover of a book or magazine | ひょうし Front cover of a book or magazine |
| 標識 ひょうしき An official sign or marker, especially a traffic sign. | ひょうしき An official sign or marker, especially a traffic sign. |
| 表示 ひょうじ To display visual information or formally express an intention. | ひょうじ To display visual information or formally express an intention. |
| 標準 ひょうじゅん A required standard, official benchmark, or typical average. | ひょうじゅん A required standard, official benchmark, or typical average. |
| 表情 ひょうじょう Facial expression showing emotion, or the figurative character of a place or object. | ひょうじょう Facial expression showing emotion, or the figurative character of a place or object. |
| 評判 ひょうばん Reputation, public opinion, or reviews. | ひょうばん Reputation, public opinion, or reviews. |
| 表面 ひょうめん The physical surface of an object or the outward appearance of a situation. | ひょうめん The physical surface of an object or the outward appearance of a situation. |
| ひょっとしたら ひょっとしたら possibly; perhaps; by some chance | ひょっとしたら possibly; perhaps; by some chance |
| ひょっとして ひょっとして “By any chance” or “possibly,” indicating a slight suspicion or low-probability guess. | ひょっとして “By any chance” or “possibly,” indicating a slight suspicion or low-probability guess. |
| ひょっとすると ひょっとすると By some chance; possibly. | ひょっとすると By some chance; possibly. |
| 費用 ひよう Cost or expense required for a specific purpose or activity | ひよう Cost or expense required for a specific purpose or activity |
| 平たい ひらたい Physically flat shape or plain, simple language. | ひらたい Physically flat shape or plain, simple language. |
| ひらひら ひらひら Light fluttering of thin, flat objects | ひらひら Light fluttering of thin, flat objects |
| 昼間 ひるま Daytime or daylight hours | ひるま Daytime or daylight hours |
| 疲労 ひろう A formal term for accumulated fatigue or exhaustion. | ひろう A formal term for accumulated fatigue or exhaustion. |
| 広がり ひろがり Spread, expanse, or scope | ひろがり Spread, expanse, or scope |
| 広がる ひろがる To spread, extend, or become widespread. | ひろがる To spread, extend, or become widespread. |
| 広げる ひろげる To spread, expand, or unfold something | ひろげる To spread, expand, or unfold something |
| 広場 ひろば Public plaza, square, or open space. | ひろば Public plaza, square, or open space. |
| 広々 ひろびろ Extensive, spacious, and wide open. | ひろびろ Extensive, spacious, and wide open. |
| 広まる ひろまる To spread or become widely known (news, rumors, trends) | ひろまる To spread or become widely known (news, rumors, trends) |
| 広める ひろめる To spread, popularize, or broaden | ひろめる To spread, popularize, or broaden |
| 品質 ひんしつ Quality of a product or material | ひんしつ Quality of a product or material |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 不安 ふあん Anxiety, unease, or insecurity. | ふあん Anxiety, unease, or insecurity. |
| 風景 ふうけい Scenery, landscape, or the visual appearance of a place | ふうけい Scenery, landscape, or the visual appearance of a place |
| 夫婦 ふうふ Married couple; husband and wife | ふうふ Married couple; husband and wife |
| 不運 ふうん Bad luck, misfortune, or being unlucky. | ふうん Bad luck, misfortune, or being unlucky. |
| 不可 ふか Formal impossibility, prohibition, or a failing grade. | ふか Formal impossibility, prohibition, or a failing grade. |
| 不可能 ふかのう Describes something impossible or unachievable, often used in formal contexts. | ふかのう Describes something impossible or unachievable, often used in formal contexts. |
| 深まる ふかまる To deepen or intensify naturally, often describing seasons, time, or abstract bonds. | ふかまる To deepen or intensify naturally, often describing seasons, time, or abstract bonds. |
| 深める ふかめる To deepen or intensify relationships, understanding, or interest. | ふかめる To deepen or intensify relationships, understanding, or interest. |
| 不規則 ふきそく Irregularity; lacking a consistent pattern, rule, or schedule. | ふきそく Irregularity; lacking a consistent pattern, rule, or schedule. |
| 普及 ふきゅう Becoming widespread, common, or popularized throughout society. | ふきゅう Becoming widespread, common, or popularized throughout society. |
| 付近 ふきん The vicinity or immediate area surrounding a specific location. | ふきん The vicinity or immediate area surrounding a specific location. |
| 福 ふく Good fortune, luck, or blessings. | ふく Good fortune, luck, or blessings. |
| 複雑 ふくざつ Complex, complicated, or intricate; having many interconnected parts. | ふくざつ Complex, complicated, or intricate; having many interconnected parts. |
| 服装 ふくそう Attire or one’s style of dress. | ふくそう Attire or one’s style of dress. |
| 腹痛 ふくつう, はらいた Stomach ache or abdominal pain. | ふくつう, はらいた Stomach ache or abdominal pain. |
| 含む ふくむ To contain, include, or hold something inside, whether physically, in the mouth, or abstractly. | ふくむ To contain, include, or hold something inside, whether physically, in the mouth, or abstractly. |
| 含める ふくめる To include within a group or to imply a nuance. | ふくめる To include within a group or to imply a nuance. |
| 服用 ふくよう Formal term for taking medicine | ふくよう Formal term for taking medicine |
| 膨らむ ふくらむ To swell, inflate, or expand in size or scale. | ふくらむ To swell, inflate, or expand in size or scale. |
| 不幸 ふこう Unhappiness, misfortune, or a death in the family. | ふこう Unhappiness, misfortune, or a death in the family. |
| 不公平 ふこうへい Unfairness, injustice, or partiality. | ふこうへい Unfairness, injustice, or partiality. |
| 不在 ふざい Absence or the state of not being present, often used in formal contexts or missed deliveries. | ふざい Absence or the state of not being present, often used in formal contexts or missed deliveries. |
| 不思議 ふしぎ Something mysterious, strange, or miraculous that defies logic or common sense | ふしぎ Something mysterious, strange, or miraculous that defies logic or common sense |
| 負傷 ふしょう Injury or wound, typically used in formal or official contexts. | ふしょう Injury or wound, typically used in formal or official contexts. |
| 不自由 ふじゆう Inconvenience, physical impairment, or a lack of resources. | ふじゆう Inconvenience, physical impairment, or a lack of resources. |
| 夫人 ふじん Formal title for the wife of a high-status person | ふじん Formal title for the wife of a high-status person |
| 婦人 ふじん A formal, slightly dated term for a lady, found primarily on signs and in compound words. | ふじん A formal, slightly dated term for a lady, found primarily on signs and in compound words. |
| 防ぐ ふせぐ To defend against, block, or prevent a threat or negative event. | ふせぐ To defend against, block, or prevent a threat or negative event. |
| 不足 ふそく Insufficiency, shortage, or lack. | ふそく Insufficiency, shortage, or lack. |
| 蓋 ふた Lid, cap, or cover for a container. | ふた Lid, cap, or cover for a container. |
| 双子 ふたご twins | ふたご twins |
| 再び ふたたび Again or once more, typically used in formal or written contexts. | ふたたび Again or once more, typically used in formal or written contexts. |
| 普段 ふだん Usual, ordinary, everyday, or habitual. | ふだん Usual, ordinary, everyday, or habitual. |
| 縁 ふち, えん Physical edge or rim; fated connection or bond. | ふち, えん Physical edge or rim; fated connection or bond. |
| 不注意 ふちゅうい Carelessness or inattention resulting in mistakes or oversight | ふちゅうい Carelessness or inattention resulting in mistakes or oversight |
| 普通 ふつう Normal, ordinary, usually, or a local train. | ふつう Normal, ordinary, usually, or a local train. |
| 不図
(ふと)
ふと Suddenly, unintentionally, or by chance | ふと Suddenly, unintentionally, or by chance |
| 不得意 ふとくい Being unskilled or not good at something; a lack of ability. | ふとくい Being unskilled or not good at something; a lack of ability. |
| 太もも ふともも Thigh; the upper part of the leg | ふともも Thigh; the upper part of the leg |
| 船便 ふなびん, せんびん Sea mail or scheduled ship service | ふなびん, せんびん Sea mail or scheduled ship service |
| 不平 ふへい Dissatisfaction or complaints about unfair situations. | ふへい Dissatisfaction or complaints about unfair situations. |
| 不満 ふまん Dissatisfaction or complaint due to unmet expectations | ふまん Dissatisfaction or complaint due to unmet expectations |
| 踏切 ふみきり Railway crossing; sports takeoff point; a decisive step. | ふみきり Railway crossing; sports takeoff point; a decisive step. |
| 踏む ふむ To step on, tread on, or go through the steps of a process. | ふむ To step on, tread on, or go through the steps of a process. |
| 不明 ふめい Unknown, unclear, or unidentified. | ふめい Unknown, unclear, or unidentified. |
| 不要 ふよう Unnecessary, unneeded, or not required. | ふよう Unnecessary, unneeded, or not required. |
| ふらふら ふらふら Unsteady staggering, aimless wandering, or wavering indecision. | ふらふら Unsteady staggering, aimless wandering, or wavering indecision. |
| 振り ふり, ぶり Pretense, a physical swing, a manner of action, or an elapsed time interval. | ふり, ぶり Pretense, a physical swing, a manner of action, or an elapsed time interval. |
| 不利 ふり disadvantage or unfavorable position | ふり disadvantage or unfavorable position |
| 振り返る ふりかえる To physically look back or mentally reflect on the past | ふりかえる To physically look back or mentally reflect on the past |
| 振り向く ふりむく To turn around to look back, or to pay attention to someone. | ふりむく To turn around to look back, or to pay attention to someone. |
| 震える ふるえる To shake, tremble, or shiver involuntarily due to cold, fear, or vibration. | ふるえる To shake, tremble, or shiver involuntarily due to cold, fear, or vibration. |
| 古着 ふるぎ Secondhand or vintage clothing | ふるぎ Secondhand or vintage clothing |
| 故郷 ふるさと, こきょう Hometown or birthplace | ふるさと, こきょう Hometown or birthplace |
| ふわふわ ふわふわ Light, fluffy texture or weightless, floating movement | ふわふわ Light, fluffy texture or weightless, floating movement |
| ふわり ふわり Light, floating movement or soft, airy texture. | ふわり Light, floating movement or soft, airy texture. |
| 雰囲気 ふんいき Atmosphere, mood, or vibe of a place or person. | ふんいき Atmosphere, mood, or vibe of a place or person. |
| 噴水 ふんすい Decorative water fountain | ふんすい Decorative water fountain |
| ふんわり ふんわり Soft, airy, and light in texture or gentle movement. | ふんわり Soft, airy, and light in texture or gentle movement. |
| フィーリング フィーリング Intuitive chemistry, compatibility, or general feel | フィーリング Intuitive chemistry, compatibility, or general feel |
| フォロー フォロー Following on social media, backing someone up, or following up on a task | フォロー Following on social media, backing someone up, or following up on a task |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 兵 へい, つわもの Soldier, troops, or army | へい, つわもの Soldier, troops, or army |
| 平気 へいき Unbothered, unfazed, or indifferent. | へいき Unbothered, unfazed, or indifferent. |
| 平均 へいきん Mathematical average, typical standard, or physical balance. | へいきん Mathematical average, typical standard, or physical balance. |
| 兵士 へいし The standard, neutral term for a soldier. | へいし The standard, neutral term for a soldier. |
| 平日 へいじつ Weekdays; ordinary days excluding weekends and public holidays. | へいじつ Weekdays; ordinary days excluding weekends and public holidays. |
| 兵隊 へいたい Soldier; troops; an enlisted person. | へいたい Soldier; troops; an enlisted person. |
| 閉店 へいてん Closing a store for the day or going out of business | へいてん Closing a store for the day or going out of business |
| 平凡 へいぼん Ordinary, common, or unremarkable; lacking special qualities. | へいぼん Ordinary, common, or unremarkable; lacking special qualities. |
| 平和 へいわ Peace; harmony; absence of war or conflict. | へいわ Peace; harmony; absence of war or conflict. |
| 臍
(へそ)
へそ, ほぞ Navel or belly button; the center or middle point. | へそ, ほぞ Navel or belly button; the center or middle point. |
| 減らす へらす To reduce, decrease, or cut down an amount or number. | へらす To reduce, decrease, or cut down an amount or number. |
| 減る へる To decrease in number, amount, or degree | へる To decrease in number, amount, or degree |
| 変化 へんか Change, transformation, or variation in state, form, or grammar. | へんか Change, transformation, or variation in state, form, or grammar. |
| 変換 へんかん conversion or transformation of form, format, or state | へんかん conversion or transformation of form, format, or state |
| 返金 へんきん Refund or repayment. | へんきん Refund or repayment. |
| 変形 へんけい Transformation, deformation, or modification of form | へんけい Transformation, deformation, or modification of form |
| 変更 へんこう Change, modification, or alteration to plans or settings. | へんこう Change, modification, or alteration to plans or settings. |
| 編集 へんしゅう Editing or compiling content such as text or video. | へんしゅう Editing or compiling content such as text or video. |
| 変身 へんしん Transformation, metamorphosis, or dramatic makeover. | へんしん Transformation, metamorphosis, or dramatic makeover. |
| 返送 へんそう Sending back or returning an item via mail or delivery service. | へんそう Sending back or returning an item via mail or delivery service. |
| 返品 へんぴん Returning purchased goods | へんぴん Returning purchased goods |
| ヘトヘト
(へとへと)
ヘトヘト Completely exhausted or wiped out | ヘトヘト Completely exhausted or wiped out |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 歩 ほ A single step or a counter for steps. | ほ A single step or a counter for steps. |
| 保育園 ほいくえん Daycare center or nursery school typically for children of working parents. | ほいくえん Daycare center or nursery school typically for children of working parents. |
| 報 ほう, むくいる Report, news, or reward. | ほう, むくいる Report, news, or reward. |
| 法 ほう Law, rule, method, or way. | ほう Law, rule, method, or way. |
| 方がマシ
(方がまし)
ほうがまし Better than the alternative; the lesser of two evils | ほうがまし Better than the alternative; the lesser of two evils |
| 方言 ほうげん regional dialect | ほうげん regional dialect |
| 方向 ほうこう Direction, way, or course of action | ほうこう Direction, way, or course of action |
| 報告 ほうこく Formally report information, results, or progress. | ほうこく Formally report information, results, or progress. |
| 宝石 ほうせき Gem or jewel | ほうせき Gem or jewel |
| 放送 ほうそう A broadcast, transmission, or public announcement | ほうそう A broadcast, transmission, or public announcement |
| 包装 ほうそう Professional wrapping or packaging. | ほうそう Professional wrapping or packaging. |
| 包帯 ほうたい Roll of cloth or gauze used to wrap and protect an injury | ほうたい Roll of cloth or gauze used to wrap and protect an injury |
| 放題 ほうだい All-you-can capacity, unlimited action, or a state of unchecked neglect | ほうだい All-you-can capacity, unlimited action, or a state of unchecked neglect |
| 包丁 ほうちょう Kitchen knife | ほうちょう Kitchen knife |
| 報道 ほうどう News reporting or media coverage. | ほうどう News reporting or media coverage. |
| 豊富 ほうふ Abundant, plentiful, or rich in supply. | ほうふ Abundant, plentiful, or rich in supply. |
| 方法 ほうほう A specific method, procedure, or way of doing something. | ほうほう A specific method, procedure, or way of doing something. |
| 方面 ほうめん Direction, area, or field | ほうめん Direction, area, or field |
| 訪問 ほうもん A formal visit or call, typically for business or official purposes | ほうもん A formal visit or call, typically for business or official purposes |
| 法律 ほうりつ Official law, statutes, or the legal system. | ほうりつ Official law, statutes, or the legal system. |
| 放る ほうる, ほる To toss aside or leave neglected | ほうる, ほる To toss aside or leave neglected |
| 頬 ほお, ほほ Cheek. | ほお, ほほ Cheek. |
| 保温 ほおん Retaining heat; keeping warm | ほおん Retaining heat; keeping warm |
| 補給 ほきゅう Replenishment of supplies like fuel or provisions. | ほきゅう Replenishment of supplies like fuel or provisions. |
| 保険 ほけん Insurance; a financial or strategic safeguard against risk or loss. | ほけん Insurance; a financial or strategic safeguard against risk or loss. |
| 保健 ほけん Health preservation, hygiene, or public sanitation. | ほけん Health preservation, hygiene, or public sanitation. |
| 歩行 ほこう Formal or technical term for walking or proceeding on foot. | ほこう Formal or technical term for walking or proceeding on foot. |
| 歩行者 ほこうしゃ Formal term for a pedestrian. | ほこうしゃ Formal term for a pedestrian. |
| 埃
(ほこり)
ほこり Fine dust or powder that accumulates on surfaces or floats in the air. | ほこり Fine dust or powder that accumulates on surfaces or floats in the air. |
| 誇り ほこり Dignified pride, self-respect, or a source of pride. | ほこり Dignified pride, self-respect, or a source of pride. |
| 保護 ほご Formal protection, safeguarding, or conservation of people, resources, or rights | ほご Formal protection, safeguarding, or conservation of people, resources, or rights |
| 保護者 ほごしゃ A formal term referring to a parent or legal guardian, commonly used by schools and institutions. | ほごしゃ A formal term referring to a parent or legal guardian, commonly used by schools and institutions. |
| 保証 ほしょう Guarantee, warranty, or assurance of reliability | ほしょう Guarantee, warranty, or assurance of reliability |
| 保証金 ほしょうきん Security deposit or guarantee money paid when renting a property | ほしょうきん Security deposit or guarantee money paid when renting a property |
| 干す ほす To dry or air out; to sideline or blacklist. | ほす To dry or air out; to sideline or blacklist. |
| 保存 ほぞん Preservation, storage, or saving (data) | ほぞん Preservation, storage, or saving (data) |
| ほっと ほっと Feeling relieved or breathing a sigh of relief | ほっと Feeling relieved or breathing a sigh of relief |
| ほっといて ほっといて Informal command to leave someone or something alone. | ほっといて Informal command to leave someone or something alone. |
| 程
(ほど)
ほど Indicates extent, degree, or approximation. | ほど Indicates extent, degree, or approximation. |
| 歩道 ほどう Sidewalk or footpath. | ほどう Sidewalk or footpath. |
| 炎 ほのお, ほむら A visible flame or blaze, or metaphorically, intense burning emotions. | ほのお, ほむら A visible flame or blaze, or metaphorically, intense burning emotions. |
| 褒める ほめる To praise or compliment someone. | ほめる To praise or compliment someone. |
| ほら ほら Casual interjection meaning “Look!”, “See?”, or “Here!” used to draw attention or hand something over. | ほら Casual interjection meaning “Look!”, “See?”, or “Here!” used to draw attention or hand something over. |
| 掘る ほる To dig in the ground or delve into a subject. | ほる To dig in the ground or delve into a subject. |
| 惚れる ほれる To fall in love; to be smitten. | ほれる To fall in love; to be smitten. |
| 本気 ほんき Seriousness, earnestness, or being completely for real. | ほんき Seriousness, earnestness, or being completely for real. |
| 本校 ほんこう Formal term for one’s own school or the main campus | ほんこう Formal term for one’s own school or the main campus |
| 本社 ほんしゃ Corporate headquarters, head office, or main shrine. | ほんしゃ Corporate headquarters, head office, or main shrine. |
| 本数 ほんすう Number of items or services counted with the counter ‘hon’. | ほんすう Number of items or services counted with the counter ‘hon’. |
| 本人 ほんにん The person in question or the individual themselves | ほんにん The person in question or the individual themselves |
| 本年 ほんねん Formal term for the current year. | ほんねん Formal term for the current year. |
| 本の
(ほんの)
ほんの Mere, slight, or just a little. | ほんの Mere, slight, or just a little. |
| 本能 ほんのう Natural, unlearned instinct or impulse | ほんのう Natural, unlearned instinct or impulse |
| ほんの少し ほんのすこし Just a tiny bit; only a little. | ほんのすこし Just a tiny bit; only a little. |
| 本部 ほんぶ Headquarters or central command of an organization. | ほんぶ Headquarters or central command of an organization. |
| 本文 ほんぶん, ほんもん Main text or body of a document | ほんぶん, ほんもん Main text or body of a document |
| 本物 ほんもの The genuine article, real thing, or authentic original. | ほんもの The genuine article, real thing, or authentic original. |
| 翻訳 ほんやく Translation of written text | ほんやく Translation of written text |
| 本来 ほんらい originally; essentially; by nature; proper state | ほんらい originally; essentially; by nature; proper state |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 場 ば A place, scene, or situation where an event or activity occurs. | ば A place, scene, or situation where an event or activity occurs. |
| 倍 ばい Double, times, or -fold. | ばい Double, times, or -fold. |
| ばい菌 ばいきん Everyday term for germs or bacteria. | ばいきん Everyday term for germs or bacteria. |
| 売店 ばいてん Small shop or stand located inside a larger facility | ばいてん Small shop or stand located inside a larger facility |
| 売買 ばいばい Buying and selling, particularly in a formal or commercial context. | ばいばい Buying and selling, particularly in a formal or commercial context. |
| 馬鹿
(ばか)
ばか Idiot, foolish, absurd, or used as an intensifier meaning extremely. | ばか Idiot, foolish, absurd, or used as an intensifier meaning extremely. |
| 爆弾 ばくだん A literal bomb or a figurative bombshell with a shocking impact. | ばくだん A literal bomb or a figurative bombshell with a shocking impact. |
| 爆発 ばくはつ A violent physical explosion or a sudden, dramatic outburst of emotion or popularity. | ばくはつ A violent physical explosion or a sudden, dramatic outburst of emotion or popularity. |
| 化け物 ばけもの, ばけもん Supernatural monster, ghost, or person of extraordinary ability | ばけもの, ばけもん Supernatural monster, ghost, or person of extraordinary ability |
| バタバタ ばたばた Noisy flapping, clattering, or frantic busyness | ばたばた Noisy flapping, clattering, or frantic busyness |
| 罰金 ばっきん Fine; monetary penalty | ばっきん Fine; monetary penalty |
| 罰 ばつ, ばち Punishment, covering both penalties for breaking rules and divine retribution or karma. | ばつ, ばち Punishment, covering both penalties for breaking rules and divine retribution or karma. |
| 場面 ばめん Scene in a narrative or a specific real-life situation | ばめん Scene in a narrative or a specific real-life situation |
| バラバラ ばらばら Scattered, broken into pieces, or disjointed. | ばらばら Scattered, broken into pieces, or disjointed. |
| 万歳 ばんざい A celebratory cheer meaning ‘Long live’ or ‘Hooray,’ or conversely, an admission of total surrender. | ばんざい A celebratory cheer meaning ‘Long live’ or ‘Hooray,’ or conversely, an admission of total surrender. |
| バタン バタン Sound of something heavy slamming shut or falling over | バタン Sound of something heavy slamming shut or falling over |
| バリバリ バリバリ Working energetically, loud crunching, forceful tearing, or stiffness | バリバリ Working energetically, loud crunching, forceful tearing, or stiffness |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 美 び Beauty or aesthetics. | び Beauty or aesthetics. |
| ビクビク びくびく Trembling or flinching due to fear, nervousness, or timidity. | びくびく Trembling or flinching due to fear, nervousness, or timidity. |
| びしょびしょ びしょびしょ Soaked, drenched, or sopping wet | びしょびしょ Soaked, drenched, or sopping wet |
| 美人 びじん A beautiful woman | びじん A beautiful woman |
| 吃驚
(びっくり)
びっくり To be startled or suddenly surprised | びっくり To be startled or suddenly surprised |
| 秒 びょう Second; counter for seconds | びょう Second; counter for seconds |
| 平等 びょうどう Equality, fairness, or impartiality. | びょうどう Equality, fairness, or impartiality. |
| 美容師 びようし A professional hairstylist or beautician working in a salon. | びようし A professional hairstylist or beautician working in a salon. |
| 便 びん Suffix for scheduled flights and mail; noun referring to convenience or access. | びん Suffix for scheduled flights and mail; noun referring to convenience or access. |
| 瓶詰め びんづめ Bottling or bottled goods | びんづめ Bottling or bottled goods |
| 貧乏 びんぼう The state of being poor, broke, or destitute. | びんぼう The state of being poor, broke, or destitute. |
| ビニール ビニール Thin, flexible plastic or vinyl material used for items like bags and umbrellas. | ビニール Thin, flexible plastic or vinyl material used for items like bags and umbrellas. |
| ビリビリ ビリビリ Sound of ripping, electric shock sensation, or intense vibration | ビリビリ Sound of ripping, electric shock sensation, or intense vibration |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 部 ぶ A department, school club, section, or counter for document copies. | ぶ A department, school club, section, or counter for document copies. |
| 部下 ぶか Subordinate or junior staff member | ぶか Subordinate or junior staff member |
| ぶかぶか ぶかぶか Baggy, loose, or ill-fitting, usually describing clothing or shoes. | ぶかぶか Baggy, loose, or ill-fitting, usually describing clothing or shoes. |
| 武器 ぶき A weapon used in combat or an asset providing a competitive advantage. | ぶき A weapon used in combat or an asset providing a competitive advantage. |
| 武士 ぶし, さむらい Warrior or samurai | ぶし, さむらい Warrior or samurai |
| 豚 ぶた, とん Pig, pork meat, or a derogatory insult. | ぶた, とん Pig, pork meat, or a derogatory insult. |
| 舞台 ぶたい Stage, setting, or sphere of activity. | ぶたい Stage, setting, or sphere of activity. |
| 部長 ぶちょう Head of a company department or school club | ぶちょう Head of a company department or school club |
| 物価 ぶっか General cost of living or overall prices | ぶっか General cost of living or overall prices |
| 仏教 ぶっきょう Buddhism | ぶっきょう Buddhism |
| 物質 ぶっしつ material, substance, or matter | ぶっしつ material, substance, or matter |
| 物体 ぶったい Physical object; body; material entity | ぶったい Physical object; body; material entity |
| ぶつかる ぶつかる To physically collide, encounter a difficulty, or clash in conflict. | ぶつかる To physically collide, encounter a difficulty, or clash in conflict. |
| 打付ける
(ぶつける)
ぶつける To crash into, throw at, vent emotions, or pit against. | ぶつける To crash into, throw at, vent emotions, or pit against. |
| ぶつぶつ ぶつぶつ Grumbling muttering, skin bumps or rashes, or simmering bubbles. | ぶつぶつ Grumbling muttering, skin bumps or rashes, or simmering bubbles. |
| 物理 ぶつり Physics; the physical laws of nature. | ぶつり Physics; the physical laws of nature. |
| 物理的 ぶつりてき Physical, material, or tangible, distinct from the mental or abstract. | ぶつりてき Physical, material, or tangible, distinct from the mental or abstract. |
| 部品 ぶひん Parts or components for machines and devices. | ぶひん Parts or components for machines and devices. |
| 部分 ぶぶん Part, portion, or section of a larger whole | ぶぶん Part, portion, or section of a larger whole |
| ぶるぶる ぶるぶる Shivering uncontrollably from cold or fear, or vibrating rapidly | ぶるぶる Shivering uncontrollably from cold or fear, or vibrating rapidly |
| 文化 ぶんか Culture or civilization; the arts, customs, and way of life of a society. | ぶんか Culture or civilization; the arts, customs, and way of life of a society. |
| 分解 ぶんかい Disassembly, decomposition, or breaking down into constituent parts | ぶんかい Disassembly, decomposition, or breaking down into constituent parts |
| 文学 ぶんがく Literature; artistic written works or the academic study of them | ぶんがく Literature; artistic written works or the academic study of them |
| 文書 ぶんしょ, もんじょ Document, file, or written material | ぶんしょ, もんじょ Document, file, or written material |
| 文章 ぶんしょう Writing, text, or composition consisting of multiple sentences | ぶんしょう Writing, text, or composition consisting of multiple sentences |
| 分析 ぶんせき Analysis; breaking down a complex whole into parts to understand its nature or structure. | ぶんせき Analysis; breaking down a complex whole into parts to understand its nature or structure. |
| 分担 ぶんたん Apportioning tasks, responsibilities, or costs among a group. | ぶんたん Apportioning tasks, responsibilities, or costs among a group. |
| 分別 ぶんべつ, ふんべつ Sorting trash or good judgment | ぶんべつ, ふんべつ Sorting trash or good judgment |
| 文法 ぶんぽう Grammar; the structural rules of a language. | ぶんぽう Grammar; the structural rules of a language. |
| 文明 ぶんめい Civilization or modern convenience; the material and technological advancement of a society. | ぶんめい Civilization or modern convenience; the material and technological advancement of a society. |
| 分野 ぶんや A specific field, realm, or branch of study or activity. | ぶんや A specific field, realm, or branch of study or activity. |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 可き
(べき)
べき Indicates a strong moral obligation, duty, or logical expectation (should/ought to). | べき Indicates a strong moral obligation, duty, or logical expectation (should/ought to). |
| べきではない べきではない Should not or must not do, implying moral or social obligation. | べきではない Should not or must not do, implying moral or social obligation. |
| ベタベタ べたべた Sticky surfaces, clingy people, thick application, or clichéd content. | べたべた Sticky surfaces, clingy people, thick application, or clichéd content. |
| 別荘 べっそう Holiday house, villa, or vacation home. | べっそう Holiday house, villa, or vacation home. |
| 別 べつ Separate, different, or another; also denotes ‘not particularly’ or classification by category | べつ Separate, different, or another; also denotes ‘not particularly’ or classification by category |
| 別に べつに Not particularly (used with negatives); separately or in addition. | べつに Not particularly (used with negatives); separately or in addition. |
| 別々 べつべつ Separate, distinct, or individual | べつべつ Separate, distinct, or individual |
| 弁護士 べんごし Lawyer or attorney | べんごし Lawyer or attorney |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 貿易 ぼうえき International trade or foreign commerce. | ぼうえき International trade or foreign commerce. |
| 冒険 ぼうけん Adventure or risky venture involving danger or the unknown | ぼうけん Adventure or risky venture involving danger or the unknown |
| 忘年会 ぼうねんかい Year-end party held to forget the troubles of the past year. | ぼうねんかい Year-end party held to forget the troubles of the past year. |
| 暴力 ぼうりょく Physical violence or brute force. | ぼうりょく Physical violence or brute force. |
| 募金 ぼきん Fundraising or donating money | ぼきん Fundraising or donating money |
| 牧場 ぼくじょう Livestock farm or ranch | ぼくじょう Livestock farm or ranch |
| 母校 ぼこう One’s alma mater or the school from which one graduated. | ぼこう One’s alma mater or the school from which one graduated. |
| 母国 ぼこく One’s homeland or native country. | ぼこく One’s homeland or native country. |
| 母国語 ぼこくご Native language or mother tongue | ぼこくご Native language or mother tongue |
| 募集 ぼしゅう Recruitment, taking applications, or calling for contributions. | ぼしゅう Recruitment, taking applications, or calling for contributions. |
| ボロボロ ぼろぼろ Worn-out, tattered, crumbling, or physically and emotionally exhausted. | ぼろぼろ Worn-out, tattered, crumbling, or physically and emotionally exhausted. |
| ぼんやり ぼんやり Dim, indistinct, or absent-minded | ぼんやり Dim, indistinct, or absent-minded |
| ぼーっと ぼーっと Mentally zoning out or appearing hazy and indistinct | ぼーっと Mentally zoning out or appearing hazy and indistinct |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| パッと ぱっと Suddenly, in a flash, or strikingly | ぱっと Suddenly, in a flash, or strikingly |
| ぱらぱら ぱらぱら Sprinkling, flipping pages, scattered sparsely, or loose-grained texture | ぱらぱら Sprinkling, flipping pages, scattered sparsely, or loose-grained texture |
| パチパチ パチパチ Crackling sounds, clapping hands, or rapid blinking. | パチパチ Crackling sounds, clapping hands, or rapid blinking. |
| パック パック Carton, face mask, or package deal. | パック Carton, face mask, or package deal. |
| パーカー パーカー Hooded garment, primarily referring to a hoodie or sweatshirt | パーカー Hooded garment, primarily referring to a hoodie or sweatshirt |
| パート パート Part-time work or worker (typically non-student adults), or a musical part | パート Part-time work or worker (typically non-student adults), or a musical part |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| ぴったり ぴったり Perfect fit, exact precision, or sticking tightly. | ぴったり Perfect fit, exact precision, or sticking tightly. |
| ぴょんぴょん ぴょんぴょん Light, repetitive hopping or bouncing | ぴょんぴょん Light, repetitive hopping or bouncing |
| ピアス ピアス Earrings for pierced ears or body piercing | ピアス Earrings for pierced ears or body piercing |
| ピカピカ ピカピカ Shiny, glittering, or brand new condition | ピカピカ Shiny, glittering, or brand new condition |
| ピンチ ピンチ A crisis, tight spot, or difficult situation; also a clothespin. | ピンチ A crisis, tight spot, or difficult situation; also a clothespin. |
| ピンポン ピンポン Table tennis, the sound of a chime or doorbell, or an exclamation indicating a correct answer. | ピンポン Table tennis, the sound of a chime or doorbell, or an exclamation indicating a correct answer. |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| プンプン
(ぷんぷん)
ぷんぷん A strong, wafting smell or fuming with anger | ぷんぷん A strong, wafting smell or fuming with anger |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| ペコペコ ぺこぺこ Extremely hungry; bowing repeatedly in a servile manner; or thin material easily denting. | ぺこぺこ Extremely hungry; bowing repeatedly in a servile manner; or thin material easily denting. |
| ペロペロ ぺろぺろ Repeatedly licking or lapping up | ぺろぺろ Repeatedly licking or lapping up |
| ペラペラ ペラペラ Fluent speaking, thin or flimsy materials, or the sound of flipping pages. | ペラペラ Fluent speaking, thin or flimsy materials, or the sound of flipping pages. |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| ポタポタ ポタポタ Dripping in small, light drops | ポタポタ Dripping in small, light drops |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 魔 ま Demon, evil spirit, magic, or compulsive obsession | ま Demon, evil spirit, magic, or compulsive obsession |
| まあ まあ Means ‘well…’, ‘now, now’, or ‘so-so’ depending on context; used to soften speech or soothe emotion. | まあ Means ‘well…’, ‘now, now’, or ‘so-so’ depending on context; used to soften speech or soothe emotion. |
| まあまあ まあまあ So-so or passable; also used to calm someone down | まあまあ So-so or passable; also used to calm someone down |
| 枚数 まいすう The number of sheets or flat objects. | まいすう The number of sheets or flat objects. |
| 毎度 まいど Each time, or a casual business greeting thanking customers for their continued patronage. | まいど Each time, or a casual business greeting thanking customers for their continued patronage. |
| 参る まいる Humble form of to go or come; to visit a shrine; colloquially to be defeated or in a fix | まいる Humble form of to go or come; to visit a shrine; colloquially to be defeated or in a fix |
| 真上 まうえ Directly above or right overhead | まうえ Directly above or right overhead |
| 前髪 まえがみ Bangs; fringe | まえがみ Bangs; fringe |
| 前々 まえまえ Refers to a time long before the present, typically used to mean ‘since a long time ago’. | まえまえ Refers to a time long before the present, typically used to mean ‘since a long time ago’. |
| 前もって まえもって In advance or beforehand | まえもって In advance or beforehand |
| 任せる まかせる To entrust a task to someone; to surrender control to a force or situation. | まかせる To entrust a task to someone; to surrender control to a force or situation. |
| 曲がり角 まがりかど A street corner or a figurative turning point. | まがりかど A street corner or a figurative turning point. |
| 負け まけ Defeat or loss; a discount or price reduction. | まけ Defeat or loss; a discount or price reduction. |
| 負ける まける To lose, be defeated, succumb to pressure or irritants, or give a discount. | まける To lose, be defeated, succumb to pressure or irritants, or give a discount. |
| 曲げる まげる To bend an object or distort a rule. | まげる To bend an object or distort a rule. |
| 誠 まこと Sincerity, truth, faithfulness, or integrity. | まこと Sincerity, truth, faithfulness, or integrity. |
| 誠に まことに Formal adverb meaning truly or sincerely, used to intensify apologies, gratitude, and descriptions. | まことに Formal adverb meaning truly or sincerely, used to intensify apologies, gratitude, and descriptions. |
| 正に
(まさに)
まさに Exactly; precisely; truly; just (about to). | まさに Exactly; precisely; truly; just (about to). |
| 混ざる まざる To be mixed, blended, or to join in | まざる To be mixed, blended, or to join in |
| 増し まし Better than the alternative; an increase or surcharge. | まし Better than the alternative; an increase or surcharge. |
| 真面目 まじめ Serious, diligent, or earnest | まじめ Serious, diligent, or earnest |
| 混じる まじる To be mixed, blended, or mingled into a larger whole. | まじる To be mixed, blended, or mingled into a larger whole. |
| 交わる まじわる To cross, intersect, or associate with others | まじわる To cross, intersect, or associate with others |
| 増す ます To increase in degree, intensity, or value | ます To increase in degree, intensity, or value |
| 益々
(ますます)
ますます Increasingly; more and more | ますます Increasingly; more and more |
| 貧しい まずしい Financially poor, needy, or lacking in quality, resources, or substance. | まずしい Financially poor, needy, or lacking in quality, resources, or substance. |
| 又は
(または)
または Or; alternatively. | または Or; alternatively. |
| 街 まち, がい Lively downtown area, commercial street, or specific district | まち, がい Lively downtown area, commercial street, or specific district |
| 待合室 まちあいしつ A room designated for waiting, such as in a station or hospital. | まちあいしつ A room designated for waiting, such as in a station or hospital. |
| 待ち合わせ まちあわせ Meeting up at an appointed time and place | まちあわせ Meeting up at an appointed time and place |
| 待ち合わせる まちあわせる To meet up at a pre-arranged time and place | まちあわせる To meet up at a pre-arranged time and place |
| 間違い まちがい Mistake or error | まちがい Mistake or error |
| 間違いない まちがいない Unquestionably true, certain, or reliable; literally ‘no mistake’. | まちがいない Unquestionably true, certain, or reliable; literally ‘no mistake’. |
| 間違う まちがう to be wrong or make a mistake | まちがう to be wrong or make a mistake |
| 待ち遠しい まちどおしい Eagerly awaiting a positive future event such that the wait feels long | まちどおしい Eagerly awaiting a positive future event such that the wait feels long |
| 町中 まちなか Downtown or the middle of the town | まちなか Downtown or the middle of the town |
| 真っ赤 まっか Deep, vivid red, often applied to flushed faces or blatant lies. | まっか Deep, vivid red, often applied to flushed faces or blatant lies. |
| 真っ黒 まっくろ Pitch black or complete corruption | まっくろ Pitch black or complete corruption |
| 真っ最中 まっさいちゅう Right in the middle or at the height of an activity. | まっさいちゅう Right in the middle or at the height of an activity. |
| 全く まったく Not at all (with negatives), completely (with positives), or ‘good grief’ (exclamation). | まったく Not at all (with negatives), completely (with positives), or ‘good grief’ (exclamation). |
| 纏まる
(まとまる)
まとまる To come together, become organized, or be settled. | まとまる To come together, become organized, or be settled. |
| 纏め
(まとめ)
まとめ A summary, roundup, or organized compilation of gathered materials. | まとめ A summary, roundup, or organized compilation of gathered materials. |
| 纏める
(まとめる)
まとめる To collect into a unified group, summarize information, or bring a matter to a conclusion. | まとめる To collect into a unified group, summarize information, or bring a matter to a conclusion. |
| 窓口 まどぐち Service counter or point of contact | まどぐち Service counter or point of contact |
| まな板 まないた Kitchen cutting board; slang for a flat chest | まないた Kitchen cutting board; slang for a flat chest |
| 真夏 まなつ Midsummer or the height of the summer season. | まなつ Midsummer or the height of the summer season. |
| 学ぶ まなぶ To learn or study to acquire knowledge or practical skills | まなぶ To learn or study to acquire knowledge or practical skills |
| 間に合わせる まにあわせる To finish something in time or make do with available resources | まにあわせる To finish something in time or make do with available resources |
| 真似 まね Imitating or mimicking someone’s actions, voice, or style. | まね Imitating or mimicking someone’s actions, voice, or style. |
| 招く まねく To invite, beckon, or bring about a specific result. | まねく To invite, beckon, or bring about a specific result. |
| 眩しい まぶしい Physically blinding brightness or figurative radiance | まぶしい Physically blinding brightness or figurative radiance |
| 儘
(まま)
まま, まんま Remaining in a state, as is, or in accordance with. | まま, まんま Remaining in a state, as is, or in accordance with. |
| 豆 まめ Bean, pea, or a prefix meaning miniature | まめ Bean, pea, or a prefix meaning miniature |
| 間もなく まもなく Soon, shortly, or immediately after. | まもなく Soon, shortly, or immediately after. |
| 守る まもる To protect someone or something from harm, or to uphold rules and promises. | まもる To protect someone or something from harm, or to uphold rules and promises. |
| 迷い まよい Hesitation, doubt, or the inability to make a decision. | まよい Hesitation, doubt, or the inability to make a decision. |
| 迷う まよう To get lost physically or to be undecided about a choice | まよう To get lost physically or to be undecided about a choice |
| 真夜中 まよなか The dead of night or midnight | まよなか The dead of night or midnight |
| 丸で
(まるで)
まるで Just like, as if, or completely (often ‘not at all’). | まるで Just like, as if, or completely (often ‘not at all’). |
| 回す まわす To turn, rotate, pass around, or forward. | まわす To turn, rotate, pass around, or forward. |
| 回り道 まわりみち A detour, longer route, or roundabout way. | まわりみち A detour, longer route, or roundabout way. |
| 万一 まんいち A one in ten thousand chance; an unlikely worst-case scenario. | まんいち A one in ten thousand chance; an unlikely worst-case scenario. |
| 満員 まんいん Full of people; at maximum capacity. | まんいん Full of people; at maximum capacity. |
| 満開 まんかい Full bloom; the state of flowers being completely open. | まんかい Full bloom; the state of flowers being completely open. |
| 万が一 まんがいち An unlikely event, emergency, or worst-case scenario. | まんがいち An unlikely event, emergency, or worst-case scenario. |
| 満席 まんせき All seats occupied | まんせき All seats occupied |
| 満足 まんぞく Satisfaction, contentment, or the state of being sufficient. | まんぞく Satisfaction, contentment, or the state of being sufficient. |
| 満点 まんてん Perfect score, full marks, or figuratively flawless. | まんてん Perfect score, full marks, or figuratively flawless. |
| 満腹 まんぷく full stomach; satiety; being completely stuffed | まんぷく full stomach; satiety; being completely stuffed |
| 真ん丸 まんまる Perfectly round or a perfect circle | まんまる Perfectly round or a perfect circle |
| マイ マイ Prefix denoting personal ownership, private use, or “my” attached to specific nouns. | マイ Prefix denoting personal ownership, private use, or “my” attached to specific nouns. |
| マイペース マイペース Doing things at one’s own speed and way, unaffected by others. | マイペース Doing things at one’s own speed and way, unaffected by others. |
| マイホーム マイホーム One’s own privately owned home | マイホーム One’s own privately owned home |
| マジック マジック Performance magic or a permanent felt-tip marker | マジック Performance magic or a permanent felt-tip marker |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 身 み One’s body or self, social standing, or the flesh and substance of an object. | み One’s body or self, social standing, or the flesh and substance of an object. |
| 未 み, ひつじ Not yet, un-, or incomplete; the Sheep zodiac sign. | み, ひつじ Not yet, un-, or incomplete; the Sheep zodiac sign. |
| 見上げる みあげる To look up at physically; to look up to or admire someone. | みあげる To look up at physically; to look up to or admire someone. |
| 見送り みおくり Seeing someone off or postponing a plan. | みおくり Seeing someone off or postponing a plan. |
| 見送る みおくる To see someone off, or to pass up an opportunity. | みおくる To see someone off, or to pass up an opportunity. |
| 見かける みかける To happen to see or catch sight of. | みかける To happen to see or catch sight of. |
| 味方 みかた An ally, supporter, or teammate who is on one’s side | みかた An ally, supporter, or teammate who is on one’s side |
| 見方 みかた Point of view, perspective, or method of reading. | みかた Point of view, perspective, or method of reading. |
| 見込み みこみ Likelihood, potential, or formal expectation | みこみ Likelihood, potential, or formal expectation |
| 見事 みごと Splendid, magnificent, or totally complete (often used ironically). | みごと Splendid, magnificent, or totally complete (often used ironically). |
| 短め みじかめ somewhat short or on the shorter side | みじかめ somewhat short or on the shorter side |
| 惨め みじめ Miserable, pitiful, or wretched. | みじめ Miserable, pitiful, or wretched. |
| 見捨てる みすてる To abandon, desert, or forsake someone in need | みすてる To abandon, desert, or forsake someone in need |
| 湖 みずうみ, こ Lake | みずうみ, こ Lake |
| 自ら みずから Oneself; personally; voluntarily (formal) | みずから Oneself; personally; voluntarily (formal) |
| みたい みたい Casual suffix meaning like, similar to, or seems like. | みたい Casual suffix meaning like, similar to, or seems like. |
| 満たす みたす To fill a physical space or satisfy a requirement or desire. | みたす To fill a physical space or satisfy a requirement or desire. |
| 見たところ みたところ From the looks of it; as far as I can see | みたところ From the looks of it; as far as I can see |
| 見た目 みため External appearance or looks | みため External appearance or looks |
| 乱れ みだれ Disorder, disarray, or disturbance in physical or abstract contexts. | みだれ Disorder, disarray, or disturbance in physical or abstract contexts. |
| 乱れる みだれる To become disordered, disheveled, or chaotic | みだれる To become disordered, disheveled, or chaotic |
| 道順 みちじゅん Route or directions. | みちじゅん Route or directions. |
| 道のり みちのり The physical distance of a journey or the process required to reach a goal. | みちのり The physical distance of a journey or the process required to reach a goal. |
| 道端 みちばた Roadside; the area immediately alongside a road. | みちばた Roadside; the area immediately alongside a road. |
| 満ちる みちる To fill up, wax (moon), rise (tide), or expire | みちる To fill up, wax (moon), rise (tide), or expire |
| 身近 みぢか Familiar, accessible, or personally relevant to one’s daily life | みぢか Familiar, accessible, or personally relevant to one’s daily life |
| 見っともない
(みっともない)
みっともない Shameful, unsightly, or undignified appearance or behavior. | みっともない Shameful, unsightly, or undignified appearance or behavior. |
| 見つめる みつめる To stare intently at someone or something, or to face reality squarely. | みつめる To stare intently at someone or something, or to face reality squarely. |
| 未定 みてい Undecided, pending, or to be determined. | みてい Undecided, pending, or to be determined. |
| 認める みとめる To recognize, approve, or admit. | みとめる To recognize, approve, or admit. |
| 見どころ みどころ Highlights or points of interest; promise or potential. | みどころ Highlights or points of interest; promise or potential. |
| 見直し みなおし Reviewing work for errors; reassessing an opinion or value. | みなおし Reviewing work for errors; reassessing an opinion or value. |
| 見直す みなおす To review or check; to re-evaluate someone positively; to improve or recover. | みなおす To review or check; to re-evaluate someone positively; to improve or recover. |
| 皆様 みなさま Everyone (highly formal); ladies and gentlemen | みなさま Everyone (highly formal); ladies and gentlemen |
| 港 みなと Harbor or seaport. | みなと Harbor or seaport. |
| 見習い みならい Apprentice, trainee, or probationary period | みならい Apprentice, trainee, or probationary period |
| 見習う みならう To follow an example or learn by observation | みならう To follow an example or learn by observation |
| 醜い みにくい Physically ugly or morally disgraceful | みにくい Physically ugly or morally disgraceful |
| 身につける みにつける To put on clothing or master a skill. | みにつける To put on clothing or master a skill. |
| 見逃す みのがす To miss something by accident or let a mistake slide on purpose. | みのがす To miss something by accident or let a mistake slide on purpose. |
| 実り みのり Ripening, harvest, or the fruit of one’s labor. | みのり Ripening, harvest, or the fruit of one’s labor. |
| 実る みのる To bear fruit, ripen, or for efforts to produce successful results. | みのる To bear fruit, ripen, or for efforts to produce successful results. |
| 身分 みぶん Social status, rank, or official identity. | みぶん Social status, rank, or official identity. |
| 身分証明書 みぶんしょうめいしょ An official identification document or proof of identity. | みぶんしょうめいしょ An official identification document or proof of identity. |
| 見本 みほん A sample, model, or specimen used as an example. | みほん A sample, model, or specimen used as an example. |
| 見舞い みまい Visiting someone who is sick or injured, or the get-well gift itself. | みまい Visiting someone who is sick or injured, or the get-well gift itself. |
| 見守る みまもる To watch over with care or observe the progress of a situation. | みまもる To watch over with care or observe the progress of a situation. |
| 未満 みまん Less than; under (excluding the number). | みまん Less than; under (excluding the number). |
| 都 みやこ, と Capital city, central hub, or metropolis. | みやこ, と Capital city, central hub, or metropolis. |
| 苗字 みょうじ surname; family name | みょうじ surname; family name |
| 未来 みらい The distant or abstract future | みらい The distant or abstract future |
| 魅力 みりょく Charm, appeal, or attraction | みりょく Charm, appeal, or attraction |
| 魅力的 みりょくてき Charming, attractive, or appealing. | みりょくてき Charming, attractive, or appealing. |
| 診る みる To examine a patient medically | みる To examine a patient medically |
| 民間 みんかん Private, civilian, non-governmental, or folk. | みんかん Private, civilian, non-governmental, or folk. |
| 民族 みんぞく Ethnic group or people sharing a common culture and heritage | みんぞく Ethnic group or people sharing a common culture and heritage |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 向い
(向かい)
むかい The place or position directly opposite or across from something. | むかい The place or position directly opposite or across from something. |
| 向かう むかう To head toward a place, face a direction, or work towards a goal. | むかう To head toward a place, face a direction, or work towards a goal. |
| 迎え むかえ The act of picking someone up, or the person or vehicle sent to do so. | むかえ The act of picking someone up, or the person or vehicle sent to do so. |
| 迎える むかえる To go out to meet someone, welcome a newcomer, or reach a new phase. | むかえる To go out to meet someone, welcome a newcomer, or reach a new phase. |
| 昔話 むかしばなし Old folk tale or reminiscing about the past | むかしばなし Old folk tale or reminiscing about the past |
| 向き むき Physical direction facing or suitability for a specific group | むき Physical direction facing or suitability for a specific group |
| 無休 むきゅう Having no regular holidays or days off. | むきゅう Having no regular holidays or days off. |
| 麦 むぎ General term for grains such as wheat and barley. | むぎ General term for grains such as wheat and barley. |
| 向く むく To face a direction or be suited for a role | むく To face a direction or be suited for a role |
| 無口 むくち Describes a quiet, untalkative, or reserved personality. | むくち Describes a quiet, untalkative, or reserved personality. |
| 向け むけ Intended for; designed for; aimed at | むけ Intended for; designed for; aimed at |
| 向ける むける To turn, point, or direct something toward a specific target or intended audience. | むける To turn, point, or direct something toward a specific target or intended audience. |
| 無限 むげん Infinite, limitless, or having no boundaries. | むげん Infinite, limitless, or having no boundaries. |
| 無言 むごん Silence, wordlessness, or the state of deliberately not speaking. | むごん Silence, wordlessness, or the state of deliberately not speaking. |
| 無視 むし Deliberately ignoring or disregarding | むし Deliberately ignoring or disregarding |
| 蒸し むし Steaming or steamed | むし Steaming or steamed |
| 蒸し暑い むしあつい Unpleasantly hot and humid; muggy | むしあつい Unpleasantly hot and humid; muggy |
| 寧ろ
(むしろ)
むしろ Rather, if anything, or on the contrary | むしろ Rather, if anything, or on the contrary |
| 無地 むじ Plain, solid color without patterns. | むじ Plain, solid color without patterns. |
| 無人 むじん Unmanned, unstaffed, or uninhabited. | むじん Unmanned, unstaffed, or uninhabited. |
| 蒸す むす To steam food; to be hot and humid. | むす To steam food; to be hot and humid. |
| 結び むすび Knot, connection, or conclusion | むすび Knot, connection, or conclusion |
| 結ぶ むすぶ To tie, fasten, connect, or conclude an agreement. | むすぶ To tie, fasten, connect, or conclude an agreement. |
| 無責任 むせきにん Irresponsible; lacking a sense of duty or accountability. | むせきにん Irresponsible; lacking a sense of duty or accountability. |
| 無駄 むだ Uselessness, futility, or a waste of time, money, or effort. | むだ Uselessness, futility, or a waste of time, money, or effort. |
| 無駄遣い むだづかい Wasteful spending or squandering of money and resources. | むだづかい Wasteful spending or squandering of money and resources. |
| 夢中 むちゅう Being completely absorbed, obsessed, or acting in a daze. | むちゅう Being completely absorbed, obsessed, or acting in a daze. |
| 無敵 むてき Invincible, unbeatable, or unrivaled. | むてき Invincible, unbeatable, or unrivaled. |
| 無理 むり Impossible, unreasonable, or pushing beyond one’s limits | むり Impossible, unreasonable, or pushing beyond one’s limits |
| ムカムカ ムカムカ Nausea or rising anger | ムカムカ Nausea or rising anger |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 名曲 めいきょく A famous, high-quality song or musical masterpiece | めいきょく A famous, high-quality song or musical masterpiece |
| 名作 めいさく A masterpiece or highly regarded classic work. | めいさく A masterpiece or highly regarded classic work. |
| 名所 めいしょ Famous place or sightseeing spot | めいしょ Famous place or sightseeing spot |
| 迷信 めいしん Superstition; a belief lacking a scientific or logical basis | めいしん Superstition; a belief lacking a scientific or logical basis |
| 名人 めいじん Master or expert; official title for Shogi or Go champions | めいじん Master or expert; official title for Shogi or Go champions |
| 名物 めいぶつ Famous local product, specialty, or attraction | めいぶつ Famous local product, specialty, or attraction |
| 名簿 めいぼ A roster, register, or official list of names for a specific group | めいぼ A roster, register, or official list of names for a specific group |
| 名誉 めいよ Honor, prestige, or good reputation. | めいよ Honor, prestige, or good reputation. |
| 命令 めいれい A direct command or order issued by an authority. | めいれい A direct command or order issued by an authority. |
| 迷惑 めいわく Trouble, annoyance, nuisance, or inconvenience. | めいわく Trouble, annoyance, nuisance, or inconvenience. |
| 目上 めうえ Superiors or seniors of higher rank, age, or status. | めうえ Superiors or seniors of higher rank, age, or status. |
| 目が覚める めがさめる To wake up or come to one’s senses | めがさめる To wake up or come to one’s senses |
| 目指す めざす To aim for a goal or head toward a destination. | めざす To aim for a goal or head toward a destination. |
| 飯 めし Casual term for cooked rice, a meal, or one’s livelihood. | めし Casual term for cooked rice, a meal, or one’s livelihood. |
| 目下 めした, もっか Subordinates or juniors, or a formal term for currently. | めした, もっか Subordinates or juniors, or a formal term for currently. |
| 目立つ めだつ To stand out or be conspicuous. | めだつ To stand out or be conspicuous. |
| 滅茶苦茶
(めちゃくちゃ)
めちゃくちゃ Chaotic, nonsensical, or extremely. | めちゃくちゃ Chaotic, nonsensical, or extremely. |
| 目茶目茶
(めちゃめちゃ)
めちゃめちゃ Chaotic, disorderly, or an informal intensifier for extremely. | めちゃめちゃ Chaotic, disorderly, or an informal intensifier for extremely. |
| 滅多
(めった)
めった Rarely or seldom (used with negative verbs) | めった Rarely or seldom (used with negative verbs) |
| 滅多に
(めったに)
めったに Rarely or seldom (used with a negative verb). | めったに Rarely or seldom (used with a negative verb). |
| 目つき めつき The look or expression in one’s eyes | めつき The look or expression in one’s eyes |
| 目出度い
(めでたい)
めでたい Auspicious and joyous, or sarcastically simple-minded. | めでたい Auspicious and joyous, or sarcastically simple-minded. |
| 目を通す めをとおす To look over, scan, or skim through something briefly. | めをとおす To look over, scan, or skim through something briefly. |
| 面 めん, つら, おもて Refers to a face, mask, or flat surface, extending to abstract aspects or sides of a situation. | めん, つら, おもて Refers to a face, mask, or flat surface, extending to abstract aspects or sides of a situation. |
| 麺 めん General term for noodles | めん General term for noodles |
| 免許 めんきょ Official license or permit, commonly referring to a driver’s license. | めんきょ Official license or permit, commonly referring to a driver’s license. |
| 面する めんする To face or look out on | めんする To face or look out on |
| 面積 めんせき The measured area or square measure of a two-dimensional surface. | めんせき The measured area or square measure of a two-dimensional surface. |
| 面接 めんせつ Formal interview (e.g. for a job or school admission) | めんせつ Formal interview (e.g. for a job or school admission) |
| 面倒 めんどう Trouble, hassle, or the care and supervision of someone. | めんどう Trouble, hassle, or the care and supervision of someone. |
| 面倒くさい めんどくさい Bothersome, troublesome, or a hassle | めんどくさい Bothersome, troublesome, or a hassle |
| メモ帳 メモちょう Small notebook or basic text editor | メモちょう Small notebook or basic text editor |
| メーター メーター Measuring device or gauge. | メーター Measuring device or gauge. |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 儲かる もうかる To be profitable or yield a profit. | もうかる To be profitable or yield a profit. |
| 儲ける もうける To make a profit, earn money, or gain an advantage. | もうける To make a profit, earn money, or gain an advantage. |
| 申し上げる もうしあげる Humble verb for saying, stating, or performing an action for a superior. | もうしあげる Humble verb for saying, stating, or performing an action for a superior. |
| 申し込む もうしこむ to apply for, sign up for, or formally propose | もうしこむ to apply for, sign up for, or formally propose |
| 申し訳 もうしわけ A formal apology or excuse, typically used to express that an action is inexcusable. | もうしわけ A formal apology or excuse, typically used to express that an action is inexcusable. |
| 申し訳ありません もうしわけありません Formal phrase for “I am sorry” or “my apologies”. | もうしわけありません Formal phrase for “I am sorry” or “my apologies”. |
| 申し訳ない もうしわけない Deep apology or gratitude implying there is no excuse for the trouble caused | もうしわけない Deep apology or gratitude implying there is no excuse for the trouble caused |
| 目次 もくじ Table of contents for a book or document. | もくじ Table of contents for a book or document. |
| 目的 もくてき Purpose, goal, or objective. | もくてき Purpose, goal, or objective. |
| 目的地 もくてきち Destination or the place one is traveling to. | もくてきち Destination or the place one is traveling to. |
| 目標 もくひょう A specific, concrete goal, target, or objective. | もくひょう A specific, concrete goal, target, or objective. |
| 若しかして
(もしかして)
もしかして Could it be…?; by any chance…? | もしかして Could it be…?; by any chance…? |
| 若しかすると
(もしかすると)
もしかすると Perhaps, maybe, or possibly. | もしかすると Perhaps, maybe, or possibly. |
| 若しも
(もしも)
もしも Emphatic “if” or “supposing” used for unlikely or imaginary scenarios. | もしも Emphatic “if” or “supposing” used for unlikely or imaginary scenarios. |
| 持ち もち Denotes ownership, durability, or who is covering an expense. | もち Denotes ownership, durability, or who is covering an expense. |
| 持ち上げる もちあげる To physically lift an object or to flatter someone. | もちあげる To physically lift an object or to flatter someone. |
| 持ち込み もちこみ Bringing in items from outside; bring-your-own; carry-on | もちこみ Bringing in items from outside; bring-your-own; carry-on |
| 持ち込む もちこむ To physically bring in, introduce a matter, or carry a situation into a new phase. | もちこむ To physically bring in, introduce a matter, or carry a situation into a new phase. |
| 持ち出し もちだし Taking items out of a location; paying expenses out of pocket | もちだし Taking items out of a location; paying expenses out of pocket |
| 持ち出す もちだす To take out or carry away; to bring up a topic. | もちだす To take out or carry away; to bring up a topic. |
| 持ち主 もちぬし Owner or possessor | もちぬし Owner or possessor |
| 最も もっとも The most; indicates the highest degree (formal). | もっとも The most; indicates the highest degree (formal). |
| 持てる もてる To be able to hold, to be popular, or to endure. | もてる To be able to hold, to be popular, or to endure. |
| 元 もと Origin, source, foundation, or former state. | もと Origin, source, foundation, or former state. |
| 基づく もとづく To be based on or founded on a specific source or justification | もとづく To be based on or founded on a specific source or justification |
| 求める もとめる To seek, request, or demand something needed or desired. | もとめる To seek, request, or demand something needed or desired. |
| 戻す もどす To put something back, restore a previous state, or vomit. | もどす To put something back, restore a previous state, or vomit. |
| 戻り もどり Return to a previous location or state; relapse or rebound | もどり Return to a previous location or state; relapse or rebound |
| もの もの Indicates a personal reason, excuse, or justification | もの Indicates a personal reason, excuse, or justification |
| 物音 ものおと A sound indicating physical presence or movement | ものおと A sound indicating physical presence or movement |
| 物語 ものがたり A tale, narrative, or structured story. | ものがたり A tale, narrative, or structured story. |
| 物事 ものごと Things, matters, or situations in an abstract sense. | ものごと Things, matters, or situations in an abstract sense. |
| 物凄い ものすごい Staggering, terrible, or tremendous; to an extreme degree | ものすごい Staggering, terrible, or tremendous; to an extreme degree |
| 物干し ものほし Clothes drying rack or clothesline | ものほし Clothes drying rack or clothesline |
| 木綿 もめん Cotton (material or fabric). | もめん Cotton (material or fabric). |
| 腿
(もも)
もも Thigh; the upper part of the leg. | もも Thigh; the upper part of the leg. |
| 燃やす もやす To burn something physically or to fuel a strong emotion. | もやす To burn something physically or to fuel a strong emotion. |
| 模様 もよう A visual pattern or design, or the apparent state of a situation. | もよう A visual pattern or design, or the apparent state of a situation. |
| 文句 もんく Complaint or objection, though it can also refer to specific wording or a slogan. | もんく Complaint or objection, though it can also refer to specific wording or a slogan. |
| 文句なし もんくなし Perfect, flawless, or beyond dispute; leaving no room for complaint. | もんくなし Perfect, flawless, or beyond dispute; leaving no room for complaint. |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 夜間 やかん Nighttime or during the night, used in formal or official contexts | やかん Nighttime or during the night, used in formal or official contexts |
| 薬缶
(やかん)
やかん Stovetop kettle | やかん Stovetop kettle |
| 軈て
(やがて)
やがて Before long, eventually, or almost. | やがて Before long, eventually, or almost. |
| 約 やく Approximately or about; promise or agreement. | やく Approximately or about; promise or agreement. |
| 役所 やくしょ Government office or public office | やくしょ Government office or public office |
| 訳す やくす To translate or interpret. | やくす To translate or interpret. |
| 役立つ やくだつ To be useful, helpful, or serve a practical purpose. | やくだつ To be useful, helpful, or serve a practical purpose. |
| 役人 やくにん Government official or bureaucrat | やくにん Government official or bureaucrat |
| 役目 やくめ Duty, assigned task, or function | やくめ Duty, assigned task, or function |
| 役割 やくわり Assigned role, duty, or function. | やくわり Assigned role, duty, or function. |
| 夜行 やこう Night travel, or shorthand for an overnight train or bus. | やこう Night travel, or shorthand for an overnight train or bus. |
| 養う やしなう To provide for family, cultivate skills, or build up strength | やしなう To provide for family, cultivate skills, or build up strength |
| 安っぽい やすっぽい Cheap-looking, tacky, or appearing low-quality | やすっぽい Cheap-looking, tacky, or appearing low-quality |
| 休まる やすまる To be rested, calm, or feel at ease | やすまる To be rested, calm, or feel at ease |
| 休める やすめる To give a rest to; to let rest. | やすめる To give a rest to; to let rest. |
| 安らか やすらか Peaceful or tranquil, often regarding a state of mind, sleep, or repose. | やすらか Peaceful or tranquil, often regarding a state of mind, sleep, or repose. |
| やって来る やってくる To come along, show up, or arrive; to have been doing something continuously up to the present. | やってくる To come along, show up, or arrive; to have been doing something continuously up to the present. |
| 奴
(やつ)
やつ Informal term referring to a thing (‘the one’) or a person (‘that guy’). | やつ Informal term referring to a thing (‘the one’) or a person (‘that guy’). |
| 奴ら
(やつら)
やつら A rough, informal term for ‘they’ or ‘those guys’ that often implies contempt. | やつら A rough, informal term for ‘they’ or ‘those guys’ that often implies contempt. |
| 雇う やとう To hire, employ, or charter. | やとう To hire, employ, or charter. |
| 宿 やど Inn or lodging | やど Inn or lodging |
| 破る やぶる To tear something physically, defeat an opponent, or break a rule or promise. | やぶる To tear something physically, defeat an opponent, or break a rule or promise. |
| 破れる やぶれる To get torn, ripped, or shattered | やぶれる To get torn, ripped, or shattered |
| 敗れる やぶれる To be defeated or lose in a formal contest. | やぶれる To be defeated or lose in a formal contest. |
| 山々 やまやま Many mountains; or a strong desire to do something one cannot act upon | やまやま Many mountains; or a strong desire to do something one cannot act upon |
| 稍
(やや)
やや Slightly, a little, or somewhat; typically used in formal or written contexts | やや Slightly, a little, or somewhat; typically used in formal or written contexts |
| ややこしい ややこしい Frustratingly complicated, confusing, or tangled | ややこしい Frustratingly complicated, confusing, or tangled |
| やり取り やりとり Back-and-forth exchange or interaction | やりとり Back-and-forth exchange or interaction |
| やり直し やりなおし A do-over or the act of doing something again from the beginning. | やりなおし A do-over or the act of doing something again from the beginning. |
| やり直す やりなおす To do over, redo, or start again. | やりなおす To do over, redo, or start again. |
| やる気 やるき Motivation, drive, or willingness to act. | やるき Motivation, drive, or willingness to act. |
| 柔らか やわらか Physical softness, tenderness, or abstract gentleness and flexibility. | やわらか Physical softness, tenderness, or abstract gentleness and flexibility. |
| 柔らかい やわらかい Soft, tender, gentle, or flexible. | やわらかい Soft, tender, gentle, or flexible. |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 唯一 ゆいいつ The one and only; sole or unique. | ゆいいつ The one and only; sole or unique. |
| 有 ゆう Prefix meaning having or with; abbreviation for limited company. | ゆう Prefix meaning having or with; abbreviation for limited company. |
| 勇敢 ゆうかん Heroic bravery, valor, or the quality of being valiant. | ゆうかん Heroic bravery, valor, or the quality of being valiant. |
| 勇気 ゆうき Courage, bravery, or the mental strength to face fear and difficulty. | ゆうき Courage, bravery, or the mental strength to face fear and difficulty. |
| 夕暮れ ゆうぐれ Evening twilight or dusk; the period when daylight fades into darkness. | ゆうぐれ Evening twilight or dusk; the period when daylight fades into darkness. |
| 友好 ゆうこう Formal friendly relations between groups, nations, or organizations. | ゆうこう Formal friendly relations between groups, nations, or organizations. |
| 優秀 ゆうしゅう Superior excellence or outstanding capability, particularly regarding intellect or performance. | ゆうしゅう Superior excellence or outstanding capability, particularly regarding intellect or performance. |
| 優勝 ゆうしょう overall victory; championship | ゆうしょう overall victory; championship |
| 友情 ゆうじょう Friendship; the bond or sentiment of camaraderie. | ゆうじょう Friendship; the bond or sentiment of camaraderie. |
| 友人 ゆうじん A formal or written term for a friend. | ゆうじん A formal or written term for a friend. |
| 郵送 ゆうそう Mailing or sending by post | ゆうそう Mailing or sending by post |
| 夕立 ゆうだち Sudden evening shower in summer | ゆうだち Sudden evening shower in summer |
| 夕飯 ゆうはん, ゆうめし Evening meal or supper, typically implying a casual or home-cooked context. | ゆうはん, ゆうめし Evening meal or supper, typically implying a casual or home-cooked context. |
| 夕日 ゆうひ Setting sun | ゆうひ Setting sun |
| 有利 ゆうり Advantageous, favorable, or profitable. | ゆうり Advantageous, favorable, or profitable. |
| 有料 ゆうりょう Paid, fee-charging, or requiring payment | ゆうりょう Paid, fee-charging, or requiring payment |
| 幽霊 ゆうれい Ghost, phantom, or spirit of a deceased person. | ゆうれい Ghost, phantom, or spirit of a deceased person. |
| 床 ゆか, とこ Indoor floor or bed. | ゆか, とこ Indoor floor or bed. |
| 愉快 ゆかい Pleasant, amusing, and cheerful. | ゆかい Pleasant, amusing, and cheerful. |
| 湯気 ゆげ Steam rising from hot food, drinks, or a bath | ゆげ Steam rising from hot food, drinks, or a bath |
| 輸出 ゆしゅつ Export; sending goods to another country. | ゆしゅつ Export; sending goods to another country. |
| 譲る ゆずる To hand over, yield, or give up a seat, item, or position to another. | ゆずる To hand over, yield, or give up a seat, item, or position to another. |
| 輸送 ゆそう Large-scale transportation or shipping. | ゆそう Large-scale transportation or shipping. |
| 豊か ゆたか Abundant, wealthy, or rich in resources or spirit. | ゆたか Abundant, wealthy, or rich in resources or spirit. |
| ゆったり ゆったり Comfortably loose, spacious, or unhurried. | ゆったり Comfortably loose, spacious, or unhurried. |
| 輸入 ゆにゅう Import; bringing goods or ideas into a country from abroad. | ゆにゅう Import; bringing goods or ideas into a country from abroad. |
| 許し ゆるし Forgiveness, pardon, permission, or approval. | ゆるし Forgiveness, pardon, permission, or approval. |
| 許す ゆるす To forgive, permit, or let your guard down. | ゆるす To forgive, permit, or let your guard down. |
| 緩む ゆるむ To become loose, slack, or less tense. | ゆるむ To become loose, slack, or less tense. |
| 揺れる ゆれる To sway, shake, or waver physically or emotionally. | ゆれる To sway, shake, or waver physically or emotionally. |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 世 よ Society, world, era, or generation. | よ Society, world, era, or generation. |
| 夜明け よあけ Dawn, daybreak, or the beginning of a new era. | よあけ Dawn, daybreak, or the beginning of a new era. |
| 酔う よう To get drunk, experience motion sickness, or be captivated. | よう To get drunk, experience motion sickness, or be captivated. |
| 陽 よう Sun, sunshine, or positive yang energy | よう Sun, sunshine, or positive yang energy |
| 容易 ようい Easy or simple (formal context) | ようい Easy or simple (formal context) |
| 容器 ようき A general term for a container or vessel. | ようき A general term for a container or vessel. |
| 陽気 ようき Cheerful, lively personality or pleasant, sunny weather | ようき Cheerful, lively personality or pleasant, sunny weather |
| 要求 ようきゅう Strong, formal demand or requirement. | ようきゅう Strong, formal demand or requirement. |
| 用件 ようけん Specific business, matter, or reason for contacting someone | ようけん Specific business, matter, or reason for contacting someone |
| ようこそ ようこそ Welcome; a greeting used when someone arrives at a place. | ようこそ Welcome; a greeting used when someone arrives at a place. |
| 用語 ようご Term, terminology, or specialized vocabulary. | ようご Term, terminology, or specialized vocabulary. |
| 用紙 ようし Blank form or sheet of paper for a specific purpose | ようし Blank form or sheet of paper for a specific purpose |
| 洋式 ようしき Western style, often referring to facilities like toilets or rooms. | ようしき Western style, often referring to facilities like toilets or rooms. |
| 洋室 ようしつ Western-style room with wood or carpet flooring | ようしつ Western-style room with wood or carpet flooring |
| 幼児 ようじ A young child or preschooler, typically aged one to six. | ようじ A young child or preschooler, typically aged one to six. |
| 用心 ようじん Caution, precaution, or being on guard against potential danger. | ようじん Caution, precaution, or being on guard against potential danger. |
| 様子 ようす The appearance, behavior, or condition of a person or situation. | ようす The appearance, behavior, or condition of a person or situation. |
| 要する ようする To require or need, often used in the set phrase meaning ‘in short’ or ‘basically’. | ようする To require or need, often used in the set phrase meaning ‘in short’ or ‘basically’. |
| 要するに ようするに In short, to sum up, or basically. | ようするに In short, to sum up, or basically. |
| 様子を見る ようすをみる To wait and see how things go | ようすをみる To wait and see how things go |
| 要素 ようそ Component, factor, or essential element | ようそ Component, factor, or essential element |
| 幼稚園 ようちえん Kindergarten or preschool focused on education rather than extended daycare | ようちえん Kindergarten or preschool focused on education rather than extended daycare |
| 腰痛 ようつう Lower back pain | ようつう Lower back pain |
| 要点 ようてん The main point, gist, or key takeaway. | ようてん The main point, gist, or key takeaway. |
| 用品 ようひん Supplies, goods, or equipment for a specific purpose | ようひん Supplies, goods, or equipment for a specific purpose |
| 洋風 ようふう Western style or influence (European or American) | ようふう Western style or influence (European or American) |
| 漸く
(ようやく)
ようやく Finally, at last, or barely achieved after a long wait or difficulty. | ようやく Finally, at last, or barely achieved after a long wait or difficulty. |
| 予感 よかん A hunch or premonition. | よかん A hunch or premonition. |
| 預金 よきん Money deposited or held in a bank account. | よきん Money deposited or held in a bank account. |
| 欲 よく Strong desire, craving, or greed. | よく Strong desire, craving, or greed. |
| 翌朝 よくあさ, よくちょう The next morning or the morning of the following day | よくあさ, よくちょう The next morning or the morning of the following day |
| 翌月 よくげつ The following month | よくげつ The following month |
| 浴室 よくしつ Formal term for a bathroom or bathing room. | よくしつ Formal term for a bathroom or bathing room. |
| 翌日 よくじつ The next day; the following day. | よくじつ The next day; the following day. |
| 翌年 よくねん, よくとし The following year; the year immediately after a specific point in time. | よくねん, よくとし The following year; the year immediately after a specific point in time. |
| 欲張る よくばる To act greedily or attempt to do too much | よくばる To act greedily or attempt to do too much |
| 余計 よけい Excessive, unnecessary, or unwanted; even more. | よけい Excessive, unnecessary, or unwanted; even more. |
| 予告 よこく Advance notice, warning, or media trailer | よこく Advance notice, warning, or media trailer |
| 汚れ よごれ Physical dirt, stains, or grime, as well as metaphorical impurity or corruption. | よごれ Physical dirt, stains, or grime, as well as metaphorical impurity or corruption. |
| 良さ よさ Goodness, merit, or appeal. | よさ Goodness, merit, or appeal. |
| 予算 よさん A budget or estimated financial plan. | よさん A budget or estimated financial plan. |
| 寄せる よせる To bring something closer, contribute, or direct feelings toward a target. | よせる To bring something closer, contribute, or direct feelings toward a target. |
| 予選 よせん Preliminary round or qualifying match. | よせん Preliminary round or qualifying match. |
| 余所
(よそ)
よそ Another place, outsiders, or unrelated matters. | よそ Another place, outsiders, or unrelated matters. |
| 予想 よそう Prediction or forecast based on reasoning | よそう Prediction or forecast based on reasoning |
| 酔っ払う よっぱらう To get drunk or become intoxicated. | よっぱらう To get drunk or become intoxicated. |
| 世の中 よのなか Society, the world of human affairs, or the general state of life. | よのなか Society, the world of human affairs, or the general state of life. |
| 予備 よび A spare, reserve, or preliminary action. | よび A spare, reserve, or preliminary action. |
| 呼びかけ よびかけ Calling out for attention or a public appeal for action | よびかけ Calling out for attention or a public appeal for action |
| 呼びかける よびかける To call out to someone or appeal for action. | よびかける To call out to someone or appeal for action. |
| 呼び出す よびだす To summon someone to a location or to call up data or a program. | よびだす To summon someone to a location or to call up data or a program. |
| 予報 よほう Forecast based on data analysis, especially for weather | よほう Forecast based on data analysis, especially for weather |
| 余程
(よほど)
よほど To a great extent, considerably, or just about to. | よほど To a great extent, considerably, or just about to. |
| 予防 よぼう Prevention or precaution against undesirable events. | よぼう Prevention or precaution against undesirable events. |
| 読み よみ Reading, pronunciation, or prediction. | よみ Reading, pronunciation, or prediction. |
| 嫁 よめ Bride, daughter-in-law, or one’s own wife | よめ Bride, daughter-in-law, or one’s own wife |
| 余裕 よゆう Surplus, leeway, or mental composure. | よゆう Surplus, leeway, or mental composure. |
| 寄り道 よりみち Dropping by somewhere on the way or making a detour | よりみち Dropping by somewhere on the way or making a detour |
| 依る
(よる)
よる To depend on, be due to, or be based on. | よる To depend on, be due to, or be based on. |
| 寄る よる To approach, gather together, or drop by a place. | よる To approach, gather together, or drop by a place. |
| よれば よれば According to; indicates the source of information. | よれば According to; indicates the source of information. |
| 喜び よろこび Joy, delight, or a happy event. | よろこび Joy, delight, or a happy event. |
| 喜ぶ よろこぶ To rejoice, be delighted, or accept with pleasure. | よろこぶ To rejoice, be delighted, or accept with pleasure. |
| 喜んで よろこんで With pleasure; gladly. | よろこんで With pleasure; gladly. |
| 弱まる よわまる To become weaker, subside, or lose intensity. | よわまる To become weaker, subside, or lose intensity. |
| 弱み よわみ Weakness or vulnerable point | よわみ Weakness or vulnerable point |
| 弱る よわる To weaken physically or be troubled and at a loss. | よわる To weaken physically or be troubled and at a loss. |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 来客 らいきゃく Visitor, guest, or caller | らいきゃく Visitor, guest, or caller |
| 来日 らいにち Coming to or visiting Japan | らいにち Coming to or visiting Japan |
| 落下 らっか A formal term for the falling or dropping of an object. | らっか A formal term for the falling or dropping of an object. |
| 乱暴 らんぼう Violence, roughness, or reckless behavior. | らんぼう Violence, roughness, or reckless behavior. |
| ランニング ランニング running for exercise; sleeveless undershirt | ランニング running for exercise; sleeveless undershirt |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 利益 りえき, りやく Profit, benefit, or divine blessing. | りえき, りやく Profit, benefit, or divine blessing. |
| 理解 りかい Deep understanding, comprehension, or grasping the logic and context of a situation | りかい Deep understanding, comprehension, or grasping the logic and context of a situation |
| 陸上 りくじょう On land; track and field | りくじょう On land; track and field |
| 利口 りこう Clever, shrewd, or well-behaved (typically of children or pets). | りこう Clever, shrewd, or well-behaved (typically of children or pets). |
| 離婚 りこん Divorce; to get divorced. | りこん Divorce; to get divorced. |
| 利子 りし Interest on money | りし Interest on money |
| 理想 りそう An ideal or standard of perfection. | りそう An ideal or standard of perfection. |
| 立派 りっぱ Splendid, admirable, or undeniable. | りっぱ Splendid, admirable, or undeniable. |
| 率 りつ Suffix denoting a rate, ratio, or percentage. | りつ Suffix denoting a rate, ratio, or percentage. |
| 流行 りゅうこう A popular trend or the spread of an infectious disease. | りゅうこう A popular trend or the spread of an infectious disease. |
| 理由 りゆう Reason, cause, or justification for an action or event. | りゆう Reason, cause, or justification for an action or event. |
| 両 りょう Both; counter for train cars | りょう Both; counter for train cars |
| 量 りょう Amount, quantity, or volume. | りょう Amount, quantity, or volume. |
| 良 りょう Good quality or an academic B grade | りょう Good quality or an academic B grade |
| 了解 りょうかい Acknowledging understanding and acceptance of instructions; ‘roger that’ or ‘got it’. | りょうかい Acknowledging understanding and acceptance of instructions; ‘roger that’ or ‘got it’. |
| 良好 りょうこう Favorable, satisfactory, or in good condition. | りょうこう Favorable, satisfactory, or in good condition. |
| 領収書 りょうしゅうしょ Formal receipt used for business expenses or tax purposes | りょうしゅうしょ Formal receipt used for business expenses or tax purposes |
| 良心 りょうしん Conscience or moral compass. | りょうしん Conscience or moral compass. |
| 両方 りょうほう Both; both sides; both parties. | りょうほう Both; both sides; both parties. |
| 旅客 りょかく Formal industry term for passenger, used primarily in compounds regarding commercial transportation. | りょかく Formal industry term for passenger, used primarily in compounds regarding commercial transportation. |
| 緑茶 りょくちゃ The specific term for Japanese green tea. | りょくちゃ The specific term for Japanese green tea. |
| 旅費 りょひ Travel expenses | りょひ Travel expenses |
| 利用 りよう Utilization of a service, system, or opportunity. | りよう Utilization of a service, system, or opportunity. |
| 離陸 りりく Takeoff (of an aircraft) | りりく Takeoff (of an aircraft) |
| 理論 りろん Theory or principles distinct from practical application. | りろん Theory or principles distinct from practical application. |
| リサイクルショップ リサイクルショップ Second-hand store or thrift shop. | リサイクルショップ Second-hand store or thrift shop. |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 類 るい Refers to a specific variety, class, or category of similar things. | るい Refers to a specific variety, class, or category of similar things. |
| 留守 るす Absence; being away from home. | るす Absence; being away from home. |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 例 れい A specific example or instance, or an established precedent or custom. | れい A specific example or instance, or an established precedent or custom. |
| 礼 れい Gratitude, etiquette, or a formal bow. | れい Gratitude, etiquette, or a formal bow. |
| 礼儀 れいぎ Formal manners, etiquette, and courtesy. | れいぎ Formal manners, etiquette, and courtesy. |
| 冷静 れいせい Calmness, composure, and level-headedness. | れいせい Calmness, composure, and level-headedness. |
| 冷蔵 れいぞう Refrigeration or cold storage. | れいぞう Refrigeration or cold storage. |
| 冷暖房 れいだんぼう Air conditioning and heating | れいだんぼう Air conditioning and heating |
| 冷凍庫 れいとうこ Freezer or freezing compartment | れいとうこ Freezer or freezing compartment |
| 例文 れいぶん Example sentence demonstrating usage | れいぶん Example sentence demonstrating usage |
| 列車 れっしゃ A formal term for a train, typically referring to long-distance or intercity travel. | れっしゃ A formal term for a train, typically referring to long-distance or intercity travel. |
| 列 れつ A line, row, column, or queue of people or things. | れつ A line, row, column, or queue of people or things. |
| 恋愛 れんあい Romantic love, romance, or love life. | れんあい Romantic love, romance, or love life. |
| 連休 れんきゅう Consecutive holidays or days off in a row | れんきゅう Consecutive holidays or days off in a row |
| 連続 れんぞく Consecutive occurrence or continuing without interruption | れんぞく Consecutive occurrence or continuing without interruption |
| 連絡先 れんらくさき Contact information or address | れんらくさき Contact information or address |
| レントゲン レントゲン Medical X-ray exam or image | レントゲン Medical X-ray exam or image |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 老人 ろうじん An elderly person or senior citizen, often used in formal or clinical contexts. | ろうじん An elderly person or senior citizen, often used in formal or clinical contexts. |
| 蝋燭
(ろうそく)
ろうそく Candle | ろうそく Candle |
| 労働 ろうどう Manual labor or work viewed as an economic or legal activity. | ろうどう Manual labor or work viewed as an economic or legal activity. |
| 労働者 ろうどうしゃ A formal term for a worker or laborer, often used in legal or economic contexts. | ろうどうしゃ A formal term for a worker or laborer, often used in legal or economic contexts. |
| 論文 ろんぶん academic thesis, dissertation, or research paper | ろんぶん academic thesis, dissertation, or research paper |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| 和 わ Japanese-style, harmony, or peace | わ Japanese-style, harmony, or peace |
| 沸かす わかす To boil water or excite a crowd | わかす To boil water or excite a crowd |
| 若者 わかもの, わかもん Young people; the youth; the younger generation | わかもの, わかもん Young people; the youth; the younger generation |
| 別れ わかれ Parting, separation, or farewell | わかれ Parting, separation, or farewell |
| 分かれる わかれる To branch off, split into parts, or be divided. | わかれる To branch off, split into parts, or be divided. |
| 我儘
(わがまま)
わがまま Selfishness, willfulness, or acting spoiled | わがまま Selfishness, willfulness, or acting spoiled |
| わくわく わくわく Excitement and positive anticipation. | わくわく Excitement and positive anticipation. |
| 訳
(わけ)
わけ Reason, meaning, or the logical explanation for a situation. | わけ Reason, meaning, or the logical explanation for a situation. |
| 訳がない
(わけがない)
わけがない Strong logical denial meaning ‘there is no way’; also describes a task as extremely easy. | わけがない Strong logical denial meaning ‘there is no way’; also describes a task as extremely easy. |
| 訳じゃない
(わけじゃない)
わけじゃない It does not mean that; it is not the case that | わけじゃない It does not mean that; it is not the case that |
| 訳ではない
(わけではない)
わけではない It doesn’t mean that; not necessarily | わけではない It doesn’t mean that; not necessarily |
| 技 わざ, ぎ A specific technique, skill, or physical move. | わざ, ぎ A specific technique, skill, or physical move. |
| 態と
(わざと)
わざと On purpose or deliberately, often implying negative intent | わざと On purpose or deliberately, often implying negative intent |
| 態々
(わざわざ)
わざわざ Going out of one’s way or expressly taking the trouble to do something. | わざわざ Going out of one’s way or expressly taking the trouble to do something. |
| 和式 わしき Japanese-style, frequently referring to squat toilets or traditional formats | わしき Japanese-style, frequently referring to squat toilets or traditional formats |
| 僅か
(わずか)
わずか A mere amount, only, or just a little. | わずか A mere amount, only, or just a little. |
| 綿 わた, めん Cotton fiber, stuffing, or finished textile material. | わた, めん Cotton fiber, stuffing, or finished textile material. |
| 話題 わだい Topic of conversation or a currently trending subject | わだい Topic of conversation or a currently trending subject |
| 和服 わふく Traditional Japanese clothing | わふく Traditional Japanese clothing |
| 笑い わらい Laughter; the act or sound of laughing. | わらい Laughter; the act or sound of laughing. |
| 割り
(割)
わり A unit of ten percent, an allotted share, or a drink mixture. | わり A unit of ten percent, an allotted share, or a drink mixture. |
| 割合 わりあい Ratio, proportion, or relatively. | わりあい Ratio, proportion, or relatively. |
| 割合に わりあいに Relatively, comparatively, or unexpectedly. | わりあいに Relatively, comparatively, or unexpectedly. |
| 割と
(わりと)
わりと Relatively, fairly, or surprisingly; more than expected. | わりと Relatively, fairly, or surprisingly; more than expected. |
| 割に わりに Considering; for; relatively. | わりに Considering; for; relatively. |
| 悪口 わるぐち, あっこう Bad-mouthing, slander, or speaking ill of someone. | わるぐち, あっこう Bad-mouthing, slander, or speaking ill of someone. |
| 悪者 わるもの A bad person, villain, or someone unfairly blamed for a problem. | わるもの A bad person, villain, or someone unfairly blamed for a problem. |
| 我々 われわれ Formal “we” or “us” representing a collective group or organization. | われわれ Formal “we” or “us” representing a collective group or organization. |
| ワンちゃん わんちゃん Affectionate term for a dog; doggie | わんちゃん Affectionate term for a dog; doggie |
| ワイワイ ワイワイ Boisterous noise, chatter, or clamor of a crowd | ワイワイ Boisterous noise, chatter, or clamor of a crowd |
| ワンピース ワンピース A dress or one-piece swimsuit. | ワンピース A dress or one-piece swimsuit. |
| Term | Reading & meaning |
|---|---|
| って って Casual particle used for quoting, marking topics, ‘even if’ conditions, or emphasis. | って Casual particle used for quoting, marking topics, ‘even if’ conditions, or emphasis. |
| ってことは ってことは Casual expression meaning ‘so that means’ or ‘in other words’. | ってことは Casual expression meaning ‘so that means’ or ‘in other words’. |
| っ放し っぱなし Leaving something in a careless state or continuing an action non-stop | っぱなし Leaving something in a careless state or continuing an action non-stop |
| っぽい っぽい Suffix meaning -ish or -like, often implying an excessive or negative tendency. | っぽい Suffix meaning -ish or -like, often implying an excessive or negative tendency. |