Back

On'yomi
ゲン
GEN
Kun'yomi
つる
tsuru

bowstring · chord · hypotenuse

Details

Strokes8
Frequency#1773
Radicalbow(3)

Stroke Order

Loading...
Strokes8

Component Breakdown

=

bow + 玄

Cultural Context

Etymology

Composed of bow and mysterious. String of bow.

Symbolism

String instrument, bowstring, heartstrings. Represents string.

Related Culture & Scenes

  • Drawing a bow

Words & Expressions

Four-Character Compounds

詩歌管弦

しいかかんげん

Chinese and Japanese poetry and instrumental music; poetry and music; literature and music; Chinese and Japanese poetry and instrumental music

弦を弾く

げんをひく

To strike a chord; To touch someone's heartstrings

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 弦 mean in Japanese?

弦 means bowstring, chord, hypotenuse.

How do you read 弦?

On'yomi: ゲン (GEN). Kun'yomi: つる (tsuru).

How many strokes does 弦 have?

弦 has 8 strokes. Its radical is 弓 (bow).

Is 弦 a good kanji for a tattoo?

Yes. 弦 (bowstring, chord, hypotenuse) has a clear positive meaning and no embarrassing alternate readings, making it a solid tattoo choice.