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On'yomi
ソ・ス
SO / SU
Kun'yomi
もと
moto

elementary · principle · naked · uncovered

Details

Strokes10
Frequency#660
Radicalsilk(6)

Stroke Order

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Strokes10

Component Breakdown

=

龶 + thread

Cultural Context

Etymology

Composed of thread and droop. Drooping thread element.

Symbolism

Material, simple, element. Represents element.

Words & Expressions

Four-Character Compounds

尸位素餐

しいそさん

neglecting the duties of an office while taking pay; neglecting the duties of an office while taking pay

質素倹約

しっそけんやく

(practice of) simplicity and frugality; scrimping and saving; (practice of) simplicity and frugality

Proverbs & Idioms

素直が一番

すなおがいちばん

Honesty is the best policy

Being straightforward is ideal

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 素 mean in Japanese?

素 means elementary, principle, naked, uncovered.

How do you read 素?

On'yomi: ソ、ス (SO, SU). Kun'yomi: もと (moto).

How many strokes does 素 have?

素 has 10 strokes. Its radical is 糸 (silk).

Is 素 a good kanji for a tattoo?

Yes. 素 (elementary, principle, naked, uncovered) has a clear positive meaning and no embarrassing alternate readings, making it a solid tattoo choice.

Explore by meaning:kanji for principle · kanji for naked · kanji for uncovered