Onyomi vs Kunyomi: Kanji Readings Explained
28 May 2026 · Mozhippattru Japanese Language School
One of the first kanji surprises: a single character can be read several ways. These readings fall into two families.
Onyomi (音読み) — the “sound” reading
Derived from the original Chinese pronunciation, onyomi is usually used when a kanji appears in a compound with other kanji. Example: 学 is read gaku in 学校 (gakkō, school).
Kunyomi (訓読み) — the “meaning” reading
The native Japanese reading, usually used when the kanji stands alone or with hiragana okurigana. Example: 学 is read mana(bu) in 学ぶ (manabu, to learn).
A rule of thumb
- Kanji + kanji compound → often onyomi.
- Kanji + hiragana (verb/adjective) → often kunyomi.
Don't over-drill readings alone
Rather than memorising every reading in isolation, learn the common words each kanji appears in. The right reading comes naturally with vocabulary.
Arul Prakash founded and personally teaches at Mozhippattru. He cleared JLPT N1 largely through self-study and spent 4 years as a Japanese interpreter for Fujitsu, Toyota and Sango — and now teaches Japanese in Tamil to beginners across India.
Read his story →Join Mozhippattru Japanese Language School — JLPT N5–N3 with N1-certified teachers. Book a free demo class, no commitment.
Book a Free Demo →Continue reading
Developed & maintained by Nexaex Digital Services Pvt. Ltd. · nexaex.in