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On'yomi
ゼツ
ZETSU
Kun'yomi
した
shita

tongue · reed · clapper

Details

Strokes6
Frequency#1830
Radicaltongue(6)

Stroke Order

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Strokes6

Component Breakdown

=

千 + mouth

Cultural Context

Etymology

Pictograph of tongue.

Symbolism

Tongue, tip of tongue, eloquence. Represents tongue.

Words & Expressions

Four-Character Compounds

舌先三寸

したさきさんずん

eloquence or flattery designed to deceive; eloquence or flattery designed to deceive

百舌勘定

もずかんじょう

splitting the bill so that the others end up paying the whole amount; wheedling the others into paying the whole bill; splitting the bill so that the others end up paying the whole amount

金口木舌

きんこうぼくぜつ

(public) opinion leader; (public) opinion leader

舌を巻く

したをまく

To roll one's tongue; To be amazed

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 舌 mean in Japanese?

舌 means tongue, reed, clapper.

How do you read 舌?

On'yomi: ゼツ (ZETSU). Kun'yomi: した (shita).

How many strokes does 舌 have?

舌 has 6 strokes. Its radical is 舌 (tongue).

Is 舌 a good kanji for a tattoo?

Yes. 舌 (tongue, reed, clapper) has a clear positive meaning and no embarrassing alternate readings, making it a solid tattoo choice.

Explore by meaning:kanji for reed