則
則·rule, law
- On-yomi
- ソク
- Kun-yomi
- none
By Nihongo PathUpdated
Stroke order
Write it in this order; the numbers mark where each stroke starts.
Common words
| Word | Reading | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 原則 | げんそく | principle, general rule |
| 法則 | ほうそく | law (of nature, science) |
| 規則 | きそく | rule, regulation |
| 反則 | はんそく | foul, violation |
Example sentences
会社の規則を守ってください。
かいしゃのきそくをまもってください。
Please follow the company rules.
原則として日曜日は休みです。
げんそくとしてにちようびはやすみです。
As a rule, we are closed on Sundays.
その選手は反則を取られた。
そのせんしゅははんそくをとられた。
That player was called for a foul.
Similar-looking kanji
Do not confuse these on the exam.
Common mistakes
- Reading 規則 as *きそう
- Confusing 法則 (a law of nature) with 法律 (a law passed by a state)
Memory aid
Picture it
A vessel (貝) beside a blade (刂) — rules cut in hard and not to be argued with.
Vocabulary using this kanji
Quick check
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What does the kanji 則 mean?