由
由·reason, cause, origin
- On-yomi
- ユユウユイ
- Kun-yomi
- よし
By Nihongo PathUpdated
Stroke order
Write it in this order; the numbers mark where each stroke starts.
Common words
| Word | Reading | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 自由 | じゆう | freedom |
| 理由 | りゆう | reason |
| 経由 | けいゆ | via, by way of |
| 由来 | ゆらい | origin, derivation |
Example sentences
遅れた理由を教えてください。
おくれたりゆうをおしえてください。
Please tell me the reason you were late.
ここでは自由に写真が撮れます。
ここではじゆうにしゃしんがとれます。
You can take photos freely here.
ソウル経由で東京へ行きます。
そうるけいゆでとうきょうへいきます。
I'm going to Tokyo via Seoul.
Similar-looking kanji
Do not confuse these on the exam.
Common mistakes
- Reading 経由 as けいゆう instead of けいゆ
- Writing 田 for 由 — check whether the vertical stroke breaks through the top line
Memory aid
Picture it
A rice field (田) with a sprout pushing up out of the top — you can trace the plant back to where it came from.
Vocabulary using this kanji
Quick check
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What does the kanji 由 mean?