needle, pin, staple, stinger

About this kanji

The kanji 針 (はり) primarily means 'needle' and represents something sharp or pointed. It is often used as a noun. One common compound is 指針 (ししん), which translates to 'gauge' or 'needle' on a dial, typically used in measurement instruments. Another example is 方針 (ほうしん), meaning 'policy' or 'direction,' referring to guiding principles. Additionally, 針金 (はりがね) means 'wire,' a flexible metal string. A helpful note is that this kanji also relates to various sharp objects, such as a sewing needle, but its usage extends to metaphorical meanings, like guidance in 方針.

Example sentences

• 時計の針が動いている。

  The hands of the clock are moving.

Meanings across languages

English

needle, pin, staple, stinger

Tiếng Việt

kim, ghim, bấm, mũi nhọn

日本語

針, ピン, ステープル, 針

한국어

바늘, 핀, 스테이플, 자극

中文

针, 别针, 订书钉, 刺

id

jarum

th

เข็ม

es

aguja

fr

aiguille

de

Nadel

pt

agulha

Common compounds

• 指針ししんneedle (compass, gauge, etc.), hand (clock), indicator
• 方針ほうしんpolicy, course, plan (of action)
• 針金はりがねwire
• 針路しんろcourse, direction
• 針葉樹しんようじゅconifer, needle-leaved tree
• 検針けんしんinspection of a meter, reading a meter, needle detection (in garments, etc.)
• 羅針盤らしんばんcompass
• 釣り針つりばりfish hook

Words using this kanji