Onyomi 音読み

Kunyomi 訓読み

Explanation

Minute, part, divide

Personalized Lesson For You!

Kanji Story

Imagine you are sharing a cake with your friends. You carefully divide it into equal parts, ensuring that everyone gets their fair share. This act of dividing represents the kanji '分' and its meaning.

Frequency in JLPT exams

The kanji '分' is a foundational character frequently encountered in JLPT materials, especially at the N5 and N4 levels. Its various readings and meanings make it a recurring feature in both kanji and reading comprehension sections of the exam.

Example Sentences

• 時間を15分待ってください。

  Please wait for 15 minutes.

  じかんをじゅうごふんまってください。

  jikan o jyūgo fun matte kudasai.

  Pronunciation

• このケーキは4つに分けてください。

  Please divide this cake into four parts.

  このケーキはよっつにわけてください。

  kono kēki wa yottsu ni wakete kudasai.

  Pronunciation

• 彼と意見が分かれます。

  I have a different opinion from him.

  かれといけんがわかれます。

  kare to iken ga wakaremasu.

  Pronunciation

Notes and Tips for JLPT students

• The kanji '分' is frequently used in various contexts, making it essential for the JLPT.
• Remember the different readings and their contexts. For instance, '分' can mean 'minute' in the context of time or 'divide' in the context of actions.
• Practice writing the kanji to remember its stroke order, which can help in reading comprehension sections of the JLPT.
• Pay attention to compound words using '分' as they can have different meanings based on the combination.

Usage in Japanese Names

• Names like '分島' (Bunshima) or '分田' (Kaneda) use the kanji '分'. It can symbolize division or separation in surnames.