Details
Description
Plum - the plum tree and its fruit, paired with the peach in the old phrase for a teacher's many pupils.
Stroke Order
Cultural Context
Etymology
Combines 'tree' (木) with 'child' (子), referring to the plum tree. Famous as one of the most common surnames in China.
Symbolism
Symbolizes plum, fruition, and Chinese culture. 'Peach and plum' (桃李) means excellent students, representing educational achievements.
Component Breakdown
tree + child
Words & Expressions
Four-Character Compounds
瓜田李下
かでんりか
be careful not to invite the least suspicion; leave no room for scandal
李下瓜田
りかかでん
be careful not to invite the least suspicion; leave no room for scandal
張三李四
ちょうさんりし
the common run of men; the average Joe; good-for-nothing (person)
桃李満門
とうりまんもん
gathering of excellent and capable people
Related Figures & Stories
李舜臣
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Yi Sun-sin was a Korean admiral and military general known for his victories against the Japanese navy during the Imjin War in the Joseon period.
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Name contains 李
Li Mu , personal name Zuo , courtesy name Mu , was a Chinese military general of the State of Zhao during the Warring States period.
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Name contains 李
Yi Wanyong , also spelled Lee Wan-yong or Ye Wan-yong, was a Korean politician who served as the 7th Prime Minister of Korea.
Wikipedia李広
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Li Guang was a Chinese military general of the Western Han dynasty.
WikipediaOther kanji with the same meaning
“plum”
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 李 mean in Japanese?
李 means plum. Plum - the plum tree and its fruit, paired with the peach in the old phrase for a teacher's many pupils.
How do you read 李?
On'yomi: リ (RI). Kun'yomi: すもも (sumomo).
How many strokes does 李 have?
李 has 7 strokes. Its radical is 木 (tree).
Is 李 a good kanji for a tattoo?
李 is one of the kanji most often chosen for tattoos. It means plum. Read the full meaning and cultural background on this page first — some popular choices are deliberately dark.
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