令 kanji stroke order 令 japanese kanji writing 令 kanji diagram-kanji lookup

1. Kanji Breakdown: 令

This kanji represents a concept of command, excellence, and auspiciousness.

• Meaning: Order, command, decree; good, excellent; rule.

• Reading:

• Onyomi (Sino-Japanese reading): レイ (rei)

• Kunyomi (Native Japanese reading): None in common modern use.

The kanji is a pictograph (象形文字). Its original form depicted a "kneeling figure (亼)" under a "roof (卩)," representing someone receiving orders in a respectful manner. This evolved into the meaning of "command" or "decree." The meanings of "good" and "excellent" come from the idea that a good order leads to good outcomes, and by extension, something that is commendable.

2. Stroke Order and Writing

Learning the correct stroke order is crucial for balanced and beautiful kanji. "令" has 5 strokes.

Here is the stroke order diagram and explanation:

Total Strokes: 5

1. The top-left falling stroke. (A short diagonal)

2. The top dot. (A short stroke)

3. The horizontal stroke. (From left to right)

4. The left vertical stroke. (From top to bottom)

5. The final right-falling stroke with a hook. (This stroke starts vertically and ends with a hook to the upper left)

Key Writing Tips:

• Write from top to bottom.

• The top part should be compact.

• The final stroke (5) is a distinctive vertical hook, not a simple straight line. This gives the character a finished and authoritative look.

• The overall character should feel balanced and upright, reflecting its meaning of command.

3. Vocabulary and Example Sentences

Here are some common words using "令" and how to use them in sentences.

Vocabulary

1. 命令 (めいれい, meirei)

• Meaning: Order, command, directive.

• Example: 上司の命令に従う。

• Romaji: Jōshi no meirei ni shitagau.

• English: I obey my boss's orders.

2. 令和 (れいわ, Reiwa)

• Meaning: Reiwa (the current Japanese era name, meaning "Beautiful Harmony").

• Example: 令和は2019年に始まった。

• Romaji: Reiwa wa ni sen jū kyū nen ni hajimatta.

• English: Reiwa era began in 2019.

3. 法令 (ほうれい, hōrei)

• Meaning: Laws and ordinances, statutes.

• 例文: 法令を遵守しなければならない。

• Romaji: Hōrei o junshu shinakereba naranai.

• English: We must comply with laws and regulations.

4. 指令 (しれい, shirei)

• Meaning: Instructions, directions, command.

• Example: 本部から指令が下った。

• Romaji: Honbu kara shirei o kudatta.

• English: Instructions came down from headquarters.

5. 令嬢 (れいじょう, reijō)

• Meaning: (Someone else's) daughter, young lady (a respectful term).

• Example: お令嬢さんはお元気ですか。

• Romaji: O-reijō-san wa o-genki desu ka.

• English: How is your daughter?

6. 令息 (れいそく, reisoku)

• Meaning: (Someone else's) son (a respectful term).

• Example: ご令息のご活躍を祈っております。

• Romaji: Go-reisoku no go-katsuyaku o inotte orimasu.

• English: I pray for your son's success.

Summary

• Kanji: 令

• Core Meaning: Order, Command; Good, Excellent.

• Readings: On'yomi レイ (rei)

• Stroke Order: 5 strokes. Focus on the compact top and the distinctive final vertical hook.

This kanji is essential for understanding official commands, laws, and respectful language. Its use in the current era name "Reiwa" makes it particularly relevant in modern Japan. By mastering its stroke order and vocabulary, you will be able to correctly write and use this important character.