←Back
南
On'yomi
ナン・ナ
NAN / NA
Kun'yomi
みなみ
minami
south
Details
Stroke Order
Loading...
Strokes9
Cultural Context
Etymology
Represents flourishing vegetation in the south. The warm direction.
Symbolism
South, warmth, prosperity. Represents summer and fire in Five Elements.
Words & Expressions
Four-Character Compounds
東西南北
とうざいなんぼく
east, west, south and north; east, west, south and north
南征北伐
なんせいほくばつ
attacking in all directions; attacking in all directions
南船北馬
なんせんほくば
constant travelling; constant traveling; being on the move; constant travelling
南無三宝
なむさんぼう
Homage to the Three Jewels (Buddha, Dharma and Sangha); oh no!; good heavens!; Homage to the Three Jewels (Buddha, Dharma and Sangha)
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 南 mean in Japanese?
南 means south.
How do you read 南?
On'yomi: ナン、ナ (NAN, NA). Kun'yomi: みなみ (minami).
How many strokes does 南 have?
南 has 9 strokes. Its radical is 十 (ten).
Is 南 a good kanji for a tattoo?
Yes. 南 (south) has a clear positive meaning and no embarrassing alternate readings, making it a solid tattoo choice.