Onyomi 音読み

Kunyomi 訓読み

Explanation

Long ago, once upon a time

Personalized Lesson For You!

Kanji Story

Imagine a setting where time goes backward, symbolizing a return to the past. In this past setting, characters and events from ancient times come to life.

Frequency in JLPT exams

The kanji '昔' is a moderately common character included in the JLPT N3 level. It is important to recognize its meaning and reading in order to understand written passages and answer related questions correctly.

Example Sentences

• 昔々、あるところにおじいさんとおばあさんが住んでいました。

  Once upon a time, there lived an old man and an old woman in a certain place.

  むかしむかし、あるところにおじいさんとおばあさんがすんでいました。

  mukashi mukashi, aru tokoro ni ojiisan to obaasan ga sundeimashita.

  Pronunciation

• 昔の友達と会うのは楽しい。

  Meeting old friends is enjoyable.

  むかしのともだちとあうのはたのしい。

  mukashi no tomodachi to au no wa tanoshii.

  Pronunciation

• 昔の写真を見て、懐かしい思い出が蘇りました。

  Looking at old photos brought back nostalgic memories.

  むかしのしゃしんをみて、なつかしいおもいでがよみがえりました。

  mukashi no shashin o mite, natsukashii omoide ga yomigaerimashita.

  Pronunciation

Notes and Tips for JLPT students

• The kanji '昔' is a common character in Japanese literature and folklore, frequently used to set the stage for traditional stories.
• Understanding the meaning and reading of '昔' is helpful for reading comprehension questions in the JLPT.
• In addition to its literal meaning, '昔' can also convey a nostalgic or sentimental tone in writing and speech.

Usage in Japanese Names

• The kanji '昔' is not typically used in personal names. However, it has significance in naming places, businesses, or products with a nostalgic or traditional theme.