Back to dictionary
JLPT N46画 · 6 strokesradical 弟grade 2freq #1200

younger brother

On'yomi (音読み)

  • テイ
  • ダイ

Kun'yomi (訓読み)

  • おとうとう

Mnemonic

Imagine a younger brother named 'Tei' who is always following you closely, symbolized by the two arms of the kanji embracing him.

About this kanji

The kanji 「弟」 primarily means "younger brother." It is often used in a family context and can function as a noun. For example, the compound "兄弟" (きょうだい) means "siblings," referring to brothers and sisters together. Another related term is "次弟" (じてい), which specifically means "younger brother in order," often used to distinguish birth order among siblings. Additionally, "弟子" (でし) refers to a "disciple" or student, highlighting a relationship of learning. A quick note: while this kanji denotes a younger brother, the kanji for older brother is 「兄」, which is also important to know when discussing family relations.

Example sentences

  • 弟はサッカーが好きです。

    My younger brother likes soccer.

Meanings across languages

English
younger brother
Tiếng Việt
em trai
日本語
한국어
남동생
中文
弟弟
id
adik laki-laki
th
น้องชาย
es
hermano menor
fr
petit frère
de
Jüngerer Bruder
pt
irmão mais novo

Common compounds

  • 兄弟きょうだいsiblings
  • 次弟じていyounger brother in order
  • 弟子でしdisciple, student

Want to actually learn this kanji?

The dictionary is one view. The Kanji 360 app wraps every character with mnemonic images, audio readings, stroke-order animation, story context, and SRS scheduling — free to start on iPhone, iPad, and Android.