Meaning
The kanji 意 is a cornerstone of Japanese communication. It represents the abstract concepts of thought, intention, and meaning. Learners usually encounter this Grade 3 character at the N4 level. Its structure tells a poetic story about the human mind. At the bottom, you find the radical 心 (kokoro), representing the 'heart' or 'mind.' This radical signals that the character relates to internal feelings or the spiritual center. Above it sits 音 (oto), which means 'sound.' Traditionally, 意 is interpreted as the 'sound of the heart.' It is the silent internal voice expressing a person's true intentions before they are even spoken. Because it captures what is held within the mind, it covers everything from a simple 'idea' to a strong 'will.' You will use this kanji constantly, whether you are sharing an opinion (意見) or asking for a word's definition (意味).
Readings
On'yomi (音読み) — Chinese-derived readings
The on'yomi for 意 is イ (i). This is the only reading used in modern Japanese. Since there is no kun'yomi, you only need to memorize this single sound. It remains consistent across formal, academic, and daily vocabulary.
- 意味 (imi) — meaning, significance
- 注意 (chuui) — caution, attention, warning
- 意見 (iken) — opinion, view
- 用意 (youi) — preparation, arrangements
Kun'yomi (訓読み) — Native Japanese readings
The kanji 意 does not have a standard native Japanese kun'yomi reading. In cases where the concept of 'intention' or 'will' needs a native verb, Japanese speakers use words like 思い (omoi) or 心掛ける (kokoro-gakeru). Even without a native reading, the character is so deeply embedded in the language that you will see it everywhere.
Common Words & Compounds
This kanji is highly productive and forms hundreds of essential compounds.
Daily Communication
意味 (imi) — meaning. Use this to ask 'What does this mean?'
意見 (iken) — opinion. Use this when asking for someone’s perspective.
同意 (doui) — agreement. This literally translates to having the 'same mind.'
意外 (igai) — unexpected or surprising. This describes something that falls 'outside of the mind’s' expectations.
Mindset and Willpower
意志 (ishi) — will or intent. This describes a person's determination.
意欲 (iyoku) — ambition or the drive to do something.
決意 (ketsui) — decision or resolution.
得意 (tokui) — one's forte or something one is good at. It can also mean feeling proud.
Caution and Planning
注意 (chuui) — attention or caution. You will see this on warning signs.
用意 (youi) — preparation. For example, getting ready for a trip.
意図 (ito) — intention or aim.
Example Sentences
この言葉の意味がわかりません。
Kono kotoba no imi ga wakarimasen.
I don't understand the meaning of this word.
あなたの意見を聞かせてください。
Anata no iken wo kikasete kudasai.
Please let me hear your opinion.
車に注意して道を渡りましょう。
Kuruma ni chuui shite michi wo watarimashou.
Let's be careful of cars when crossing the street.
晩ごはんの用意ができました。
Bangohan no youi ga dekimashita.
Dinner is ready.
テストの結果は意外でした。
Tesuto no kekka wa igai deshita.
The test results were unexpected.
彼は数学が得意です。
Kare wa suugaku ga tokui desu.
He is good at mathematics.
日本に行くことを決意しました。
Nihon ni iku koto wo ketsui shimashita.
I've decided to go to Japan.
その質問の意図は何ですか。
Sono shitsumon no ito wa nan desu ka?
What is the intention behind that question?
彼女は意志が強いです。
Kanojo wa ishi ga tsuyoi desu.
She has a strong will.
私の好意を無駄にしないでください。
Watashi no koui wo muda ni shinaide kudasai.
Please don't waste my goodwill.
Related Kanji
- 思 — To Think, Feel, Imagine (Kanji N4)
- 弟 — Younger Brother, Junior (Kanji N4)
- 黒 — Black, Dark (Kanji N4)
- 洗 — Wash (Kanji N4)
- 短 — Short, brief, defect (Kanji N4)
- 田 — Rice Field (Kanji N4)
Memory Tip
Think of 意 as the 'Sound of the Heart.' The top part looks like a person standing (立) over the sun (日), which creates the kanji for sound (音). Beneath that is the heart (心). When you want to express a 'meaning,' you are letting the 'sound' of your 'heart' be known. If you can hear someone's heart, you truly understand their intent.