1. Kanji Breakdown: 受
This kanji represents the concept of receiving and accepting.
Meaning: To receive, to accept, to undergo, to take.
Reading:
Onyomi (Sino-Japanese reading): ジュ (ju)
Kunyomi (Native Japanese reading): う（ける） (u(keru))
The kanji is a compound ideograph (会意文字). It is a combination of two parts that depict a hand-off:
Top (爫): This is a variant of the "claw" or "hand" radical (つめ), representing a hand giving something.
Bottom (又): This is another "hand" radical, representing a hand receiving something.
The character vividly illustrates the action of "one hand (爫) passing something down to another hand (又)." This is the essence of receiving.
2. Stroke Order and Writing
Learning the correct stroke order is crucial for balanced and beautiful kanji. "受" has 8 strokes.
Here is the stroke order diagram and explanation:
Total Strokes: 8
Start with the top "claw" radical (爫):
Then, write the bottom "又" (hand) radical:
Key Writing Tips:
Write from top to bottom.
The top "claw" radical should be wide, like a canopy.
The bottom "又" radical should be centered and provide a stable base.
The overall character should feel balanced, as if one hand is neatly receiving from the other.
3. Vocabulary and Example Sentences
Here are some common words using "受" and how to use them in sentences.
Vocabulary
受ける (うける, ukeru)
Meaning: To receive, to get, to undergo, to take (an exam or test).
Example: 大学の試験を受ける。
Romaji: Daigaku no shiken o ukeru.
English: To take a university exam.
受験 (じゅけん, juken)
Meaning: Taking an examination.
Example: 彼は受験勉強中だ。
Romaji: Kare wa juken benkyōchū da.
English: He is studying for his entrance exams.
受付 (うけつけ, uketsuke)
Meaning: Reception, reception desk, receptionist.
Example: 受付で名前を伝えてください。
Romaji: Uketsuke de namae o tsutaete kudasai.
English: Please give your name at the reception desk.
受賞 (じゅしょう, jushō)
Meaning: Receiving a prize, award.
例文: 彼女は文学賞を受賞した。
Romaji: Kanojo wa bungakushō o jushō shita.
English: She received a literary award.
感受性 (かんじゅせい, kanjusei)
Meaning: Sensitivity, susceptibility, impressibility.
Example: 彼は感受性が強い。
Romaji: Kare wa kanjusei ga tsuyoi.
English: He is very sensitive.
受理 (じゅり, juri)
Meaning: Acceptance, reception (of an application, etc.).
Example: 申請書類を受理した。
Romaji: Shinsei shorui o juri shita.
English: The application documents were accepted.
Summary
Kanji: 受
Core Meaning: To Receive, To Accept, To Undergo.
Readings: On'yomi ジュ (ju), Kun'yomi うける (ukeru)
Stroke Order: 8 strokes. Remember its pictographic origin of one hand receiving from another.
This kanji is essential for talking about receiving things, taking tests, and accepting offers or situations. By mastering its stroke order and vocabulary, you will be able to correctly write and use this fundamental character.