Onyomi 音読み

Kunyomi 訓読み

Explanation

The past; long ago

Personalized Lesson For You!

Kanji Story

Imagine a sun rising from the horizon, symbolizing the beginning of a new day. This sun gradually sets, representing the passage of time and the transition into the past.

Frequency in JLPT exams

The kanji '昔' is included in the vocabulary and reading sections of the N4 level JLPT. It is beneficial to understand its meaning and readings to improve overall language proficiency.

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

  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

• 昔の写真を見つけました。

  I found an old photograph.

  むかしのしゃしんをみつけました。

  mukashi no shashin o mitsukemashita.

  Pronunciation

• 昔からの友達と再会しました。

  I met an old friend again.

  むかしからのともだちとさいかいしました。

  mukashi kara no tomodachi to saikai shimashita.

  Pronunciation

Notes and Tips for JLPT students

• Understanding the concept and usage of '昔' is important for the N4 level of the JLPT.
• Remember the reading 'むかし' for this kanji, which means 'the past' or 'long ago'.
• When encountering words or phrases related to the past or history, there's a high chance that '昔' is used.
• Pay attention to compound words using '昔' as they can have different meanings based on the context.

Usage in Japanese Names

• The kanji '昔' is not commonly used in names, as it primarily represents the concept of the past.
• However, it can occasionally be found in names that are symbolic of nostalgic or traditional values.