Details
Stroke Order
Component Breakdown
亽 + 龴
Cultural Context
Etymology
Derives from a person kneeling to receive orders. Means commands from above, also good and beautiful.
Symbolism
Symbolizes commands, beauty, and era. As in 'Reiwa,' represents an era of beautiful harmony.
Related Culture & Scenes
- — Upholding the law
Words & Expressions
Four-Character Compounds
巧言令色
こうげんれいしょく
flattery; honeyed words; flattery
朝令暮改
ちょうれいぼかい
an unsettled course of action; (orders or laws) being revised often with no guiding principles; an unsettled course of action
社交辞令
しゃこうじれい
something said for politeness' sake; diplomatic language; honeyed words; something said for politeness' sake
至上命令
しじょうめいれい
unconditional command; must-obey order; unconditional command
外交辞令
がいこうじれい
diplomatic turn of phrase; diplomatic language; tactful way of expressing something; diplomatic turn of phrase
嘉辰令月
かしんれいげつ
auspicious date; auspicious date
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 令 mean in Japanese?
令 means orders, laws, command, decree, good.
How do you read 令?
On'yomi: レイ (REI).
How many strokes does 令 have?
令 has 5 strokes. Its radical is 人 (person).
Is 令 a good kanji for a tattoo?
Yes. 令 (orders, laws, command, decree, good) has a clear positive meaning and no embarrassing alternate readings, making it a solid tattoo choice.
Explore by meaning:kanji for command · kanji for decree · kanji for good