約
promise · approximately · shrink
Details
Stroke Order
Cultural Context
Etymology
Composed of thread and ladle. Binding thread.
Symbolism
Promise, contract, approximately. Represents promise.
Component Breakdown
thread + 勺
Words & Expressions
Four-Character Compounds
質素倹約
しっそけんやく
(practice of) simplicity and frugality; scrimping and saving
Anime & Manga
約束のネバーランド
The Promised Neverland
'Promise' is central to the story; the children's escape promise drives the narrative.
DARKER THAN BLACK -黒の契約者-
Darker than Black
A well-known work with 約 in its Japanese title.
新妹魔王の契約者
The Testament of Sister New Devil
A well-known work with 約 in its Japanese title.
さよならの朝に約束の花をかざろう
Maquia: When the Promised Flower Blooms
A well-known work with 約 in its Japanese title.
百錬の覇王と聖約の戦乙女
The Master of Ragnarök & Blesser of Einherjar
A well-known work with 約 in its Japanese title.
Other kanji with the same meaning
“promise”
“shrink”
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 約 mean in Japanese?
約 means promise, approximately, shrink.
How do you read 約?
On'yomi: ヤク (YAKU). Kun'yomi: つづ.まる、つづ.める、つづま.やか (tsuzumaru, tsuzumeru, tsuzumayaka).
How many strokes does 約 have?
約 has 9 strokes. Its radical is 糸 (silk).
Is 約 a good kanji for a tattoo?
約 is one of the kanji most often chosen for tattoos. It means promise, approximately, shrink. Read the full meaning and cultural background on this page first — some popular choices are deliberately dark.