life, command, destiny
On'yomi (音読み)
- メイ
- ミョウ
Kun'yomi (訓読み)
- いのち
- かみ
About this kanji
The kanji 「命」 primarily means life, but it can also refer to command or destiny. It's commonly used as a noun, especially in words related to life and orders. For example, 命令 (めいれい) means 'order,' showcasing its use in commands. Another compound, 運命 (うんめい), translates to 'fate,' reflecting its connection to destiny. Additionally, 生命 (せいめい) means 'life,' emphasizing the vital aspect of this kanji. A notable usage note is that while it often deals with life and death, it can also comment on the power of authority in one's life through commands.
Built from
Example sentences
命はとても大切だ。
Life is very precious.
Meanings across languages
- English
- life, command, destiny
- Tiếng Việt
- sinh mệnh, mệnh lệnh, định mệnh
- 日本語
- いのち, めい, みょう
- 한국어
- 생명, 명령, 운명
- 中文
- 生命, 命令, 命运
- id
- kehidupan, perintah, takdir
- th
- ชีวิต, คำสั่ง, ชะตากรรม
- es
- vida, mandato, destino
- fr
- vie, commande, destinée
- de
- Leben, Befehl, Schicksal
- pt
- vida, comando, destino
Common compounds
- 命令めいれいorder, command
- 運命うんめいfate, destiny
- 命名めいめいnaming, designation
- 生命せいめいlife, living thing
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