Harsh in Japanese
"harsh" in Japanese, with the kanji that carry the meaning.
酷
koku
2 Japanese kanji carry the meaning "harsh". The most common choice is shown first.
辣View details →
Top pick
pungent, spicy, harsh, cruel, severe
Reading: ratsu
14 strokes
Where it comes from
Combines 'spicy' (辛) with 'bundle' (束), representing strong, stimulating spiciness. Also used for harsh words.
What it carries
Symbolizes spiciness, harshness, and stimulation. Represents tongue-piercing heat and merciless severity.
Related kanji for "harsh"
Frequently asked questions
What is the Japanese kanji for harsh?
The most common kanji for "harsh" is 辣, read as ratsu. It means pungent, spicy, harsh. Related kanji: 惨 (harsh).
How many strokes does 辣 have?
辣 has 14 strokes.