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On'yomi
カイ
KAI
Kun'yomi
さきがけ・かしら
sakigake / kashira

charging ahead of others

Details

Strokes14
Frequency#2108
Radicalghost(10)

Stroke Order

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Strokes14

Component Breakdown

=

demon + 斗

Cultural Context

Etymology

Composed of ghost and measure. Standing at front like ghost.

Symbolism

Pioneer, outstanding, first. Represents one who leads.

Words & Expressions

Four-Character Compounds

容貌魁偉

ようぼうかいい

(a man) having a commanding face and a powerful physique; (a man) having a commanding face and a powerful physique

Proverbs & Idioms

魁は百足の虫のごとし

さきがけはむかでのごとし

The pioneer is like a centipede

Those who lead face many challenges like a centipede with many legs

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 魁 mean in Japanese?

魁 means charging ahead of others.

How do you read 魁?

On'yomi: カイ (KAI). Kun'yomi: さきがけ、かしら (sakigake, kashira).

How many strokes does 魁 have?

魁 has 14 strokes. Its radical is 鬼 (ghost).

Is 魁 a good kanji for a tattoo?

Yes. 魁 (charging ahead of others) has a clear positive meaning and no embarrassing alternate readings, making it a solid tattoo choice.