Meaning
The kanji 試 is a cornerstone of Japanese vocabulary for challenges and evaluations. Whether you are taking an exam, competing in a match, or simply sampling a new snack, you will encounter this character. It covers everything from formal scientific experiments to the casual act of trying on a shirt.
Its structure tells a story of evaluation. On the left is the 'words' radical 言, representing inquiry or verbal testing. On the right is 式, meaning 'formula' or 'standard.' Combined, they represent the act of using words or actions to see if something measures up to a specific standard. In short, it is the process of verification.
With 13 strokes, this Grade 4 kanji is a step up into more abstract concepts. While early kanji often represent physical objects, 試 represents the mental and physical effort of 'trial and error' that defines learning and growth.
Readings
On'yomi (音読み) — Chinese-derived readings
The standard on'yomi is シ (shi). You will use this reading in almost every multi-kanji compound, particularly those involving institutionalized testing or organized sports.
- 試験 (shiken) — examination, test (e.g., JLPT)
- 試合 (shiai) — match, game, or tournament
- 試作 (shisaku) — prototype or trial production
Kun'yomi (訓読み) — Native Japanese readings
Native readings usually function as verbs. Understanding the nuance between these two verbs will make your Japanese sound much more natural.
ため.す (tamesu) is the everyday choice for testing a physical object or a person's ability. It focuses on discovering the quality or result of something.
- 試す (tamesu) — to test, to try out (e.g., testing a new app)
- 試しに (tameshi ni) — as a trial run, just to see
こころ.みる (kokoromiru) is more formal and carries a sense of 'embarking' on an endeavor. It is often used for challenging attempts or experiments where the outcome is uncertain.
- 試みる (kokoromiru) — to attempt, to try (often for difficult tasks)
- 試み (kokoromi) — an initiative or an attempt
Common Words & Compounds
This kanji is incredibly versatile. Here are the most practical compounds you will see in daily life.
In the Classroom & Office
- 入試 (nyūshi) — entrance exams (a high-stress season in Japan)
- 模試 (moshi) — a mock exam used for practice
- 追試 (tsuishi) — a make-up or supplementary test
While Shopping & Dining
- 試着 (shichaku) — trying on clothes (look for the 試着室 sign in stores)
- 試食 (shishoku) — food samples (common in supermarket basements)
- 試飲 (shiin) — drink tasting (such as sake or wine)
Life & Challenges
- 試練 (shiren) — a trial, ordeal, or test of character
- 試行錯誤 (shikō sakugo) — trial and error (a very common four-kanji idiom)
Example Sentences
明日の数学の試験はかなり難しそうです。
ashita no suugaku no shiken wa kanari muzukashisou desu.
Tomorrow's math exam looks like it will be quite difficult.
新しい健康法を試してみることにしました。
atarashii kenkouhou wo tameshite miru koto ni shimashita.
I've decided to try out a new health routine.
ついに野球の試合が始まります。
tsuini yakyuu no shiai ga hajimarimasu.
The baseball match is finally about to begin.
このズボン、試着してもいいですか？
kono zubon, shichaku shite mo ii desu ka?
Can I try these pants on?
新しい薬が患者に試みられた。
atarashii kusuri ga kanja ni kokoromirareta.
A new medicine was trialed on the patients.
デパ地下で高級なチョコを試食した。
depachika de koukyuu na choko wo shishoku shita.
I sampled some high-end chocolate in the department store basement.
彼は試行錯誤の末に、ついにアプリを完成させた。
kare wa shikou sakugo no sue ni, tsuini apuri wo kansei saseta.
After much trial and error, he finally finished the app.
Related Kanji
- 究 — To Seek the Truth and Master the Depths (Kanji N4)
- 題 — Topic, Subject, Problem (Kanji N4)
- 業 — Business, Vocation, Arts, Karma (Kanji N4)
- 験 — Examination, Verification, Testing (Kanji N4)
- 洋 — Ocean, Western style (Kanji N4)
- 知 — Know, Wisdom, Intellect (Kanji N4)
Memory Tip
Think of an oral exam where you must prove your knowledge. On the left are the words (言) you speak. On the right is the formula (式) you are being tested on. To test (試) your skill, you must speak the correct formula!