Hiragana, katakana, and kanji
Learn words with their readings instead of assigning one sound to each kanji.
Hiragana writes endings, particles, and many words. Katakana often writes borrowed words, names, and emphasis. Kanji often carries the meaning of a word or stem. All three scripts work together in normal Japanese.
A kanji can have multiple readings, and word readings must be learned in context. Furigana is small kana printed with kanji; the reading lines on this site provide similar support for whole words and phrases. Romaji is a temporary reading aid, not a replacement for kana.
Examples
How the words match
Tap a word in either language to see its partner. Some phrases work as a group; particles explain the grammar.
- にほんごnihongoJapanese languageLearn にほんご as the reading of the whole word; kanji readings depend on the word.
How the words match
Tap a word in either language to see its partner. Some phrases work as a group; particles explain the grammar.
- たべますtabemasueat / will eat (polite)The polite nonpast form can describe a habit or a future action.
How the words match
Tap a word in either language to see its partner. Some phrases work as a group; particles explain the grammar.
- コーヒーkoohiicoffeeThe long-vowel marks extend the preceding vowels.
Keep in mind
The particle は is pronounced wa, へ is e, and を is usually o; kana readings preserve their normal spellings.