Nihongo

Kanji Detail of 才

Level:N3 Mid
Strokes:3
Stroke Order
Related Words
AI Explanation
Basic Meaning

The kanji primarily conveys the meaning of "talent," "ability," or "skill." It refers to a natural aptitude or a special capacity for doing something well. It can also imply age, especially when used to indicate a person's age.

Readings

・On-yomi (音読み): サイ ・Kun-yomi (訓読み): None, or used as a counter for age.

Usage Examples

⚫︎ 天才 (てんさい) Translation: Genius ⚫︎ 才能 (さいのう) Translation: Talent; ability ⚫︎ 歳 (さい) Translation: Years old (used in counter for age). Note: While the kanji itself is , it is often written as with the additional component

Origin and Formation

The kanji is a pictograph. It depicts a young plant or a sprout emerging from the ground. This visual representation suggests the potential and the inherent ability to grow and develop, symbolizing talent or skill. The character has evolved over time, but the core meaning of potential and ability remains.

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