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使
On'yomi
シ
SHI
Kun'yomi
つか.う・つか.い・-つか.い・-づか.い
tsukau / tsukai / tsukai / zukai
use · send on a mission · order · messenger · envoy · ambassador · cause
Details
Stroke Order
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Strokes8
Component Breakdown
使=
亻吏
person + 吏
Cultural Context
Etymology
Composed of person and official. Sending someone.
Symbolism
Use, ambassador, mission. Represents utilization for purpose.
Related Culture & Scenes
- — Returning home
Words & Expressions
Proverbs & Idioms
使い捨てはもったいない
つかいすてはもったいない
Disposable things are wasteful
Single-use items are regrettable
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 使 mean in Japanese?
使 means use, send on a mission, order, messenger, envoy, ambassador, cause.
How do you read 使?
On'yomi: シ (SHI). Kun'yomi: つか.う、つか.い、-つか.い、-づか.い (tsukau, tsukai, tsukai, zukai).
How many strokes does 使 have?
使 has 8 strokes. Its radical is 人 (person).
Is 使 a good kanji for a tattoo?
Yes. 使 (use, send on a mission, order, messenger, envoy, ambassador, cause) has a clear positive meaning and no embarrassing alternate readings, making it a solid tattoo choice.
Explore by meaning:kanji for use · kanji for order · kanji for cause