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JLPT N29画 · 9 strokesradical 牙freq #2500Jōyō kanji

tusk, fang

On'yomi (音読み)

  • ガ
  • ガク

Kun'yomi (訓読み)

  • きば

Mnemonic

A powerful beast with sharp tusks stands triumphantly, its fang-like teeth gleaming in the sunlight, ready to defend its territory.

About this kanji

The kanji "牙" primarily means "tusk" or "fang," and it can be used both as a noun and in compounds. The kun'yomi reading is "きば," which refers to an animal's fang or tusk. In the compound "牙城" (がじょう), it means "stronghold," suggesting a place that is very secure or protected. Another compound, "犬牙" (けんが), refers to a "canine tooth," specifically relating to dogs or similar animals. The compound "歯牙" (しが) means "tooth," emphasizing its connection to teeth in general. A helpful note is that while the kanji is often associated with fierceness, it can also imply protection or strength.

Example sentences

  • 象の牙は非常に重いです。

    The elephant's tusks are extremely heavy.

Meanings across languages

English
tusk, fang
Tiếng Việt
ngà, răng nanh
日本語
牙
한국어
엄니
中文
牙
id
taring
th
เขี้ยว
es
colmillo
fr
dent
de
Zahn
pt
presente, tusks

Common compounds

  • 牙城がじょうstronghold
  • 犬牙けんがcanine tooth, tusk
  • 歯牙しがtooth

Words using this kanji

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