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JLPT N13画 · 3 strokesradical 士grade 5freq #526

gentleman, scholar, samurai, samurai radical (no. 33)

On'yomi (音読み)

Kun'yomi (訓読み)

  • さむらい

Mnemonic

The dignified scholar stands proudly, resembling a samurai wielding wisdom and honor as his sword.

About this kanji

The kanji 「士」 primarily means a gentleman, scholar, or samurai. It often appears as a noun, reflecting roles associated with honor and expertise. For example, 紳士 (しんし) means "gentleman," indicating a well-mannered man, while 同士 (どうし) refers to "fellow" or "companion," highlighting a bond among individuals. Another interesting compound is 博士 (はかせ), which means "expert" or "doctor," commonly used in academic contexts. Additionally, a 軍士 (へいし) is a soldier, denoting someone who serves in the military. A usage note is that the kanji can convey both nobility and camaraderie, making it versatile in context.

Example sentences

  • 武士の精神は尊い。

    The spirit of a samurai is noble.

Meanings across languages

English
gentleman, scholar, samurai, samurai radical (no. 33)
Tiếng Việt
quý ông, học giả, samurai
日本語
士, 学者, 侍
한국어
신사, 학자, 사무라이
中文
士, 学者, 武士
id
bangsawan
th
ขุนนาง
es
caballero
fr
gentilhomme
de
Gelehrter
pt
gentil-homem

Common compounds

  • 紳士しんしgentleman
  • 同士どうしfellow, mutual, companion
  • 博士はかせexpert, learned person, doctor
  • 兵士へいしsoldier
  • 力士りきしsumo wrestler, rikishi, strong man
  • 富士山ふじさんMount Fuji, Mt. Fuji, Fujiyama
  • 弁護士べんごしlawyer, attorney
  • 学士がくしuniversity graduate, bachelor, bachelor's degree

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