Onyomi 音読み

Kunyomi 訓読み

Explanation

Head

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Kanji Story

Imagine a person with a big head carrying a crown on top. This represents someone who is the head or leader, symbolizing authority and intelligence.

Frequency in JLPT exams

The kanji '頭' is a key character frequently encountered in JLPT materials, especially at the N3 level. Its various readings and meanings make it important for both kanji and reading comprehension sections of the exam.

Example Sentences

• 彼は頭がいいです。

  He is intelligent.

  かれはあたまがいいです。

  kare wa atama ga ii desu.

  Pronunciation

• 頭を撫でてあげてください。

  Please pat my head.

  あたまをなでてあげてください。

  atama o nadete agete kudasai.

  Pronunciation

• 頭が痛いです。

  I have a headache.

  あたまがいたいです。

  atama ga itai desu.

  Pronunciation

Notes and Tips for JLPT students

• The kanji '頭' is frequently used in various contexts and is an important kanji to know for the JLPT N3 level.
• Pay attention to the different readings and their meanings. For instance, '頭' as 'atama' refers to the physical head, while 'かしら' is often used to refer to the top or leader position.
• Practice writing the kanji to remember its stroke order, which can help in reading comprehension sections of the JLPT.
• Look out for compound words using '頭' as they can have different meanings based on the combination.

Usage in Japanese Names

• The kanji '頭' is often used in given names and surnames, symbolizing intelligence or a high position in society.