欲
longing · covetousness · greed · passion · desire · craving
Details
Stroke Order
Component Breakdown
谷 + yawn
Cultural Context
Etymology
Combines 'valley' (谷, emptiness) with 'yawn' (欠), representing the heart seeking something from unfulfilled emptiness. Indicates fundamental human drive.
Symbolism
Symbolizes desire, craving, and human instinct. Represents the heart's pursuit of satisfaction and the need to control it.
Words & Expressions
Four-Character Compounds
無欲恬淡
むよくてんたん
indifferent to worldly gain; indifferent to worldly gain
私利私欲
しりしよく
self-interest; selfish desire; greed; self-interest
無私無欲
むしむよく
selflessness; unselfishness; selflessness
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 欲 mean in Japanese?
欲 means longing, covetousness, greed, passion, desire, craving.
How do you read 欲?
On'yomi: ヨク (YOKU). Kun'yomi: ほっ.する、ほ.しい (hossuru, hoshii).
How many strokes does 欲 have?
欲 has 11 strokes. Its radical is 欠 (lack).
Is 欲 a good kanji for a tattoo?
Yes. 欲 (longing, covetousness, greed, passion, desire, craving) has a clear positive meaning and no embarrassing alternate readings, making it a solid tattoo choice.
Explore by meaning:kanji for passion · kanji for desire