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道Nihongo Path
救

救·rescue

On-yomi
キュウ
Kun-yomi
すく(う)

By Nihongo PathUpdated

Stroke order

Write it in this order; the numbers mark where each stroke starts.

11 strokes, numbered in writing order. Data: KanjiVG (CC BY-SA 3.0).

Common words

WordReadingMeaning
救うすくうto save, rescue
救急車きゅうきゅうしゃambulance
救助きゅうじょrescue
救急きゅうきゅうemergency (medical)

Example sentences

  1. 彼が子どもの命を救った。

    かれがこどものいのちをすくった。

    He saved the child's life.

  2. すぐに救急車を呼んでください。

    すぐにきゅうきゅうしゃをよんでください。

    Please call an ambulance right away.

  3. 救助隊が山に向かった。

    きゅうじょたいがやまにむかった。

    The rescue team headed for the mountain.

Similar-looking kanji

Do not confuse these on the exam.

Common mistakes

  • Writing 救急車 with only one きゅう
  • Reaching for 救う in ordinary situations — for everyday helping, 助ける is the normal verb

Memory aid

Picture it

A plea (求) answered by a hand (攵) reaching in — someone pulled out of trouble.

Vocabulary using this kanji

Quick check

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What does the kanji 救 mean?