両
both · old Japanese coin · counter for carriages (e.g., in a train) · two
Details
Description
Both - the two pans of a scale. Two things held in balance, each needing the other.
Stroke Order
Cultural Context
Etymology
A pictograph of both pans of a scale. Means both sides, two things, indicating balance and equilibrium. Simplified form of 兩.
Symbolism
Symbolizes both, balance, and symmetry. Represents harmony between two things and fair judgment.
Related Culture & Scenes
- — Good old days
Component Breakdown
one + 冂 + mountain
Words & Expressions
Four-Character Compounds
一挙両得
いっきょりょうとく
killing two birds with one stone; serving two ends
一刀両断
いっとうりょうだん
cutting in two with a single stroke; taking decisive action; dealing with decisively
賛否両論
さんぴりょうろん
arguments for and against; pros and cons; mixed reception
千両役者
せんりょうやくしゃ
star (actor); prima donna; leading figure
文武両道
ぶんぶりょうどう
being accomplished in both the literary and military arts; doing well in both school and sports
首鼠両端
しゅそりょうたん
being unable to make up one's mind; sitting on the fence
進退両難
しんたいりょうなん
being driven to the wall; finding oneself between the devil and the deep blue sea; finding oneself between a rock and a hard place
忠孝両全
ちゅうこうりょうぜん
being a good son and a loyal subject; possessing loyalty and filial piety
Anime & Manga
両親の借金を肩代わりしてもらう条件は日本一可愛い女子高生と一緒に暮らすことでした。
Ryoushin no Shakkin wo Katagawari Shite Morau Jouken wa Nihonichi Kawaii Joshikousei to Issho ni Kurasu Koto deshita.
A well-known work with 両 in its Japanese title.
Other kanji with the same meaning
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 両 mean in Japanese?
両 means both, old Japanese coin, counter for carriages (e.g., in a train), two. Both - the two pans of a scale. Two things held in balance, each needing the other.
How do you read 両?
On'yomi: リョウ (RYOU). Kun'yomi: てる、ふたつ (teru, futatsu).
How many strokes does 両 have?
両 has 6 strokes. Its radical is 一 (one).
Is 両 a good kanji for a tattoo?
両 is one of the kanji most often chosen for tattoos. It means both, old Japanese coin, counter for carriages (e.g., in a train), two. Read the full meaning and cultural background on this page first — some popular choices are deliberately dark.