Onyomi 音読み

Kunyomi 訓読み

Explanation

Good luck, fortune, luck

Personalized Lesson For You!

Kanji Story

Imagine a person blowing out a breath and whispering 'yoshi' (meaning 'good') into the air. This act represents the person's wish for good luck and fortune.

Frequency in JLPT exams

The kanji '吉' is generally not heavily tested in JLPT but may appear in more advanced levels like N1. However, understanding its meaning and associated vocabulary can enhance overall knowledge of kanji and cultural symbolism in Japan.

Example Sentences

• 彼は試験に合格したので、吉報が舞い込んできた。

  He passed the exam, so good news came flying in.

  かれはしけんにごうかくしたので、きっぽうがまいこんできた。

  kare wa shiken ni goukaku shita node, kippou ga maikondekita.

  Pronunciation

• 新しい年が始まる前に、吉祥を祈っています。

  Before the new year begins, I am praying for good luck.

  あたらしいとしははじまるまえに、きっしょうをいのっています。

  atarashii toshi ga hajimaru mae ni, kissyou o inotteimasu.

  Pronunciation

• この吉字は幸運をもたらすと言われています。

  This kanji character is said to bring good fortune.

  このきちじはこううんをもたらすといわれています。

  kono kichiji wa kouun o motarasu to iwareteimasu.

  Pronunciation

Notes and Tips for JLPT students

• The kanji '吉' is considered an advanced level character typically encountered in JLPT N1 materials.
• It is commonly used in Japanese culture to symbolize good luck and fortune.
• The onyomi readings 'キチ' and 'キツ' are often seen in compound words related to luck and blessings.
• The kunyomi reading 'よし' is used in words like '吉報' (good news) and '吉兆' (auspicious omen).

Usage in Japanese Names

• Names like '吉田' (Yoshida) or '吉川' (Yoshikawa) often use the kanji '吉'. It is believed to bring good luck and auspiciousness to the individual.