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基
On'yomi
キ
KI
Kun'yomi
もと・もとい
moto / motoi
fundamentals · radical (chem) · counter for machines · foundation
Details
Stroke Order
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Strokes11
Component Breakdown
基=
其土
其 + earth
Cultural Context
Etymology
Composed of that and earth. Earth forming foundation.
Symbolism
Foundation, basics, base. Represents groundwork.
Words & Expressions
Proverbs & Idioms
基礎なくして高楼なし
きそなくしてこうろうなし
No tall building without a foundation
Great achievements require solid foundations
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 基 mean in Japanese?
基 means fundamentals, radical (chem), counter for machines, foundation.
How do you read 基?
On'yomi: キ (KI). Kun'yomi: もと、もとい (moto, motoi).
How many strokes does 基 have?
基 has 11 strokes. Its radical is 土 (earth).
Is 基 a good kanji for a tattoo?
Yes. 基 (fundamentals, radical (chem), counter for machines, foundation) has a clear positive meaning and no embarrassing alternate readings, making it a solid tattoo choice.
Explore by meaning:kanji for foundation