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On'yomi
ヨウ
YOU
Kun'yomi
おさな.い
osanai

infancy · childhood

Details

Strokes5
Frequency#1227
Radicalshort thread(3)

Stroke Order

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Strokes5

Component Breakdown

=

幺 + power

Cultural Context

Etymology

Combines 'thread' (幺, meaning fine/small) with 'strength' (力), depicting a state where power is still weak and undeveloped—young age.

Symbolism

Symbolizes youth, innocence, and the beginning of growth. Represents beings needing protection and unlimited potential.

Words & Expressions

Four-Character Compounds

幼馴染み

おさななじみ

Childhood friend; A friend since childhood

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 幼 mean in Japanese?

幼 means infancy, childhood.

How do you read 幼?

On'yomi: ヨウ (YOU). Kun'yomi: おさな.い (osanai).

How many strokes does 幼 have?

幼 has 5 strokes. Its radical is 幺 (short thread).

Is 幼 a good kanji for a tattoo?

Yes. 幼 (infancy, childhood) has a clear positive meaning and no embarrassing alternate readings, making it a solid tattoo choice.

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