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On'yomi
CHI

wisdom · intellect · reason

Details

Strokes12
Frequency#1002
Radicalsun(4)

Stroke Order

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Strokes12

Component Breakdown

=

知 + sun

Cultural Context

Etymology

Composed of know and sun. Knowledge of sun.

Symbolism

Wisdom, intelligence, cleverness. Represents wisdom.

Spiritual Meaning

The highest spiritual faculty in Buddhism. "Wisdom" transcends mere knowledge, meaning enlightened power to intuitively grasp truth.

Words & Expressions

Proverbs & Idioms

智者も千慮に一失あり

ちしゃもせんりょにいっしつあり

Even a wise person makes one mistake in a thousand thoughts

Everyone makes mistakes, no matter how wise

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 智 mean in Japanese?

智 means wisdom, intellect, reason.

How do you read 智?

On'yomi: チ (CHI).

How many strokes does 智 have?

智 has 12 strokes. Its radical is 日 (sun).

Is 智 a good kanji for a tattoo?

Yes. 智 (wisdom, intellect, reason) has a clear positive meaning and no embarrassing alternate readings, making it a solid tattoo choice.

Explore by meaning:kanji for wisdom · kanji for reason