Meaning
The kanji 技 (pronounced waza or gi) covers a broad range of meanings, all revolving around skill, technique, art, and ability. It refers to the proficiency developed through practice and learning, enabling someone to perform tasks effectively or create something masterful. This can encompass physical techniques in martial arts or sports, artistic craftsmanship, or even clever tricks and feats. Ultimately, 技 embodies the cultivated expertise or specialized knowledge that allows an action to be performed with competence and often, elegance.
Etymologically, 技 is a phono-semantic compound. Its left-hand radical, 手 (て, te), meaning “hand,” serves as the semantic component. This directly links the kanji to actions performed with the hands, as well as abilities requiring physical dexterity and effort. Many skills are indeed hand-driven, making this visual connection intuitive.
The right-hand component, 支 (し, shi), functions as the phonetic element, giving the kanji its On'yomi reading of “gi” (though its original sound was closer to “ki”). While primarily phonetic, 支 itself can mean “branch” or “to support.” Some scholars suggest this subtly hints at the idea of “branching out” one's skills or “supporting” oneself through a practiced craft.
Mastering 技 means not just knowing how to do something, but executing it with a high degree of proficiency and finesse. This concept is central to Japanese culture, frequently appearing in contexts of traditional arts, martial arts, and professional craftsmanship. The kanji 技 has 7 strokes and is taught in the 4th grade of elementary school in Japan, making it a common and important character for JLPT N3 studies.
Readings
The kanji 技 has both On'yomi (Chinese-derived) and Kun'yomi (native Japanese) readings. Each is used in different contexts to express the kanji's core meanings.
On'yomi (音読み) — Chinese-derived readings
The primary On'yomi reading for 技 is ギ (gi). This reading is predominantly used when 技 forms part of a larger compound word, especially those with more abstract or technical meanings related to skill, technology, or performance. It carries a formal and often technical nuance, reflecting its Chinese origin.
技術 (gijutsu) — technology; technique; skill. This is a very common word referring to practical skills and the application of scientific knowledge, such as in engineering or information technology.
演技 (engi) — acting; performance. Used to describe the skill involved in performing on stage or screen, emphasizing the artistry of portrayal.
競技 (kyōgi) — competition; game; match. Refers to contests where skills are displayed and evaluated, such as athletic competitions.
技巧 (gikō) — technique; skill; artistry. Emphasizes the artistic and refined aspect of a skill, often implying a high level of craftsmanship or dexterity.
Kun'yomi (訓読み) — Native Japanese readings
The main Kun'yomi reading for 技 is わざ (waza). This reading is used when the kanji stands alone or in simpler, more direct compounds. It often refers to specific actions, feats, or individual skills, particularly in the context of martial arts, crafts, or impressive actions. This reading carries a more direct and often physical sense of technique, rooted in traditional Japanese concepts of skill.
技 (waza) — skill; art; craft; feat; technique. This is the standalone reading and refers to a particular skill or technique itself, often used for specific moves in sports or martial arts.
大技 (ōwaza) — a great feat; a spectacular technique; a major skill. Used to describe an impressive or difficult skill that requires significant mastery.
早技 (hayawaza) — quick skill; swift technique; sleight of hand. Implies performing a skill with speed, dexterity, and precision, often appearing effortless.
寝技 (newaza) — ground techniques (in judo/jiu-jitsu); grappling. A specific term for martial arts techniques performed while grappling on the ground.
Common Words & Compounds
The kanji 技 appears in many Japanese words, forming compounds that convey various meanings related to skill, technique, and ability. Below are some common and important examples, grouped by theme for easier understanding.
General Skill and Technique
技術 (gijutsu) — technology; technique; skill. This word is widely used in contexts ranging from engineering to practical everyday skills, denoting applied knowledge.
技能 (ginō) — technical skill; ability; capacity. Often used in formal contexts to describe qualifications or specific professional skills, like a driver's license or a trade skill.
技量 (giryō) — ability; capacity; skill. Refers to a person's overall capability or aptitude in a certain area, often in a performing art or sport.
技巧 (gikō) — technique; skill; artistry. Emphasizes the refined and artistic quality of a skill, especially in crafts, music, or painting.
Performance and Artistry
演技 (engi) — acting; performance. Specifically used for stage or screen performances, highlighting the skill of an actor.
技芸 (gigei) — arts and crafts; accomplishments. A more traditional term for refined arts and skills, such as flower arrangement or tea ceremony.
職人技 (shokunin-waza) — craftsman's skill; master technique. Denotes the exceptional skill of a master artisan, often implying years of dedication and perfection.
Sports and Competition
競技 (kyōgi) — competition; game; match. Refers to competitive events where skills are displayed, such as sports tournaments.
特技 (tokugi) — special skill; forte. A particular skill one excels at, often used in self-introductions or when describing someone's unique talent.
得意技 (tokui-waza) — specialty; one's strong point. Similar to 特技, but often implies a signature move or best technique in a competitive setting.
Advanced and Specific Techniques
神業 (kamiwaza) — superhuman feat; divine skill; miraculous performance. Used for skills that seem impossibly good, as if performed by a deity.
妙技 (myōgi) — superb technique; exquisite skill. Refers to skills that are particularly brilliant, ingenious, or aesthetically pleasing.
離れ技 (hanarewaza) — daring feat; difficult stunt. Describes a very challenging and impressive skill, often performed precariously or with great risk.
必殺技 (hissatsu-waza) — killer move; finishing move; special attack. A term often heard in games or martial arts for a decisive technique designed to defeat an opponent.
Example Sentences
彼は簡単な技をすぐに覚えた。
Kare wa kantan na waza wo sugu ni oboeta.
He quickly learned a simple technique.
このカメラは最新の技術が使われています。
Kono kamera wa saishin no gijutsu ga tsukawarete imasu.
This camera uses the latest technology.
彼女の演技は観客を魅了した。
Kanojo no engi wa kankyaku wo miryō shita.
Her performance captivated the audience.
彼の得意技は空手の蹴りだ。
Kare no tokui-waza wa karate no keri da.
His specialty is a karate kick.
職人が精巧な技で作った品物。
Shokunin ga seikō na waza de tsukutta shinamono.
An item made by a craftsman with elaborate skill.
新しい体操の技を習得するには時間がかかる。
Atarashii taisō no waza wo shūtoku suru ni wa jikan ga kakaru.
It takes time to master new gymnastics techniques.
スポーツ競技では技術だけでなく精神力も重要だ。
Supōtsu kyōgi de wa gijutsu dake de naku seishinryoku mo jūyō da.
In sports competitions, not only skill but also mental strength is important.
その料理人は、見事な包丁さばきの技で魚を捌いた。
Sono ryōrinin wa, migoto na hōchō-sabaki no waza de sakana wo sabaite ita.
The chef filleted the fish with exquisite knife skills.
Memory Tip
To remember the kanji 技, you can break it down into its components. The left side is the radical 手 (て), meaning “hand.” This immediately connects the kanji to actions, dexterity, and abilities performed with the hands.
The right side is 支 (し), meaning “branch” or “to support.” You can imagine a skilled artisan whose hands (手) are so adept they seem magically supported or guided by an invisible branch while performing a complex technique. Alternatively, picture a hand holding a branch and using it with great skill, perhaps to create art or perform a neat trick. This combination of "hand" and "support/branch" helps visualize a refined "skill," "technique," or "art" that requires dexterity and practice.