既
既·already
- On-yomi
- キ
- Kun-yomi
- すで(に)
By Nihongo PathUpdated
Stroke order
Write it in this order; the numbers mark where each stroke starts.
Common words
| Word | Reading | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 既に | すでに | already |
| 既婚 | きこん | married |
| 既存 | きそん | existing, already in place |
| 既読 | きどく | read (of a message) |
Example sentences
会議は既に始まっていた。
かいぎはすでにはじまっていた。
The meeting had already started.
既読になったのに返事がない。
きどくになったのにへんじがない。
It's marked as read but there's no reply.
既存のシステムを使い続けます。
きそんのシステムをつかいつづけます。
We will keep using the existing system.
Similar-looking kanji
Do not confuse these on the exam.
Common mistakes
- Reading 既に as きに — it is すでに
- Using 既に in casual speech; もう is the everyday word, 既に is written or formal
Memory aid
Picture it
A figure turning his head away from the food vessel on the left — he has already finished eating.
Vocabulary using this kanji
Quick check
1 / 2Multiple choiceDifficulty 4 of 5
What does the kanji 既 mean?