Onyomi 音読み

Kunyomi 訓読み

Explanation

First, beginning, new

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Kanji Story

Imagine a person standing at the starting line of a race, feeling excited and nervous. This person takes their first step forward, marking the beginning of a new journey.

Frequency in JLPT exams

The kanji '初' is a common character tested in the JLPT, particularly at the N3 level. Understanding its meaning, readings, and associated vocabulary will be beneficial for both kanji and reading comprehension sections of the exam.

Example Sentences

• 初めまして、私は田中です。

  Nice to meet you, I am Tanaka.

  はじめまして、わたしはたなかです。

  Hajimemashite, watashi wa Tanaka desu.

  Pronunciation

• 新しい仕事を初めてから、３ヶ月経ちました。

  It has been three months since I started my new job.

  あたらしいしごとをはじめてから、さんかげつたちました。

  Atarashii shigoto o hajimete kara, sankagetsu tachimashita.

  Pronunciation

• 初雪が降りました。

  The first snowfall happened.

  はつゆきがふりました。

  Hatsuyuki ga furimashita.

  Pronunciation

Notes and Tips for JLPT students

• The kanji '初' is commonly seen in vocabulary related to beginnings or firsts.
• Remember the reading 'hajime' and its meanings, as it is frequently used in various contexts.
• Pay attention to compounds and phrases that use '初' to express new beginnings, such as '初めて' (for the first time) or '初日' (first day).
• Understanding the stroke order of '初' can help improve recognition and recall in kanji writing sections of the JLPT.

Usage in Japanese Names

• The kanji '初' is occasionally used in given names to symbolize new beginnings or first-born children. For example, names like '初音' (Hatsune) or '初美' (Hatsumi) incorporate the kanji '初'.