Kanji Meanings

The kanji for courage is 勇 — but 勇気 is the word Japanese people actually use, and the difference matters. A native speaker explains which to choose.

The kanji for dragon is 竜 — but 龍 is the older form and looks far stronger. A native speaker explains which one to use, and where each one belongs.

Ichigo ichie (一期一会) means more than 'cherish the moment' — it comes from the tea room and carries an obligation. A native speaker on the nuance.

Bushido is 武士道 — the way of the warrior. A native speaker breaks down all three characters, the virtue lists, and where Western versions drift off.

The kanji for love is 愛 (ai). If you only take one thing from this page, take this: 愛 is not the love of valentines and text messages. It is the heavy word — the love you com