long time
N2- Onyomi
- キュウ
- Kunyomi
- ひさ(しい)
- Stroke count
- 3
- JLPT
- N2
Onyomi are readings often used in compound words. Kunyomi are native Japanese readings. Learn each reading with an example word.
Memory tip
Break 久 down and you get 𠂊 (claw / grasping hand) — a hooked stroke curling down like a claw reaching for something below. Picture two cupped hands together, offering something held between them, put 久 inside it, and let that scene stand for "long time" — long time. The odder the picture, the better it sticks.
Stroke Order
Stroke count: 3
General writing tips
These general rules have exceptions. Follow the animation and numbered frames for this character.
- •上から下へ書きます。Write from top to bottom.
- •左から右へ書きます。Write from left to right.
- •横の画を先に、縦の画を後に書きます。Write horizontal strokes before the vertical strokes that cross them.
- •外側の囲みを先に書き、中を後で書きます。Draw an outer enclosure first, then fill in what is inside.
- •中央を先に、左右を後に書きます。In symmetric shapes, write the centre before the left and right sides.
- •この漢字は3画です。下の練習エリアで順番に書いてみましょう。This kanji has 3 strokes — trace them in order in the practice area below.
Step by step
Practice Writing
Free writing practice — compare your writing with the example. This canvas does not check your shape or stroke order. Draw with a mouse, finger, or pen; scroll outside the square to move down the page.
Trace the faded character, or hide the outline to practise from memory.
Writing Tips
- Follow the order strictly: top-to-bottom and left-to-right. Correct order makes the shape balanced and natural.
- Keep each stroke in one smooth motion — don't lift the pen in the middle of a stroke.
- Close enclosing strokes cleanly so the character does not look open or broken.
- Common mistake: drawing strokes bottom-to-top or right-to-left. Even if the result looks similar, the wrong order shows in handwriting and makes it harder to read.
Example words
恒久的
koukyuuteki
permanent
恒久的な
koukyuutekina
attributive: permanent (before a noun)
恒久的です
koukyuutekidesu
polite: is permanent
恒久的じゃないです
koukyuutekijanaidesu
polite negative: is not permanent
Example sentences (2)
久しぶりに大学の友人に会いました。
ひさしぶり に だいがく の ゆうじん に あいました。
hisashiburi ni daigaku no yuujin ni aimashita.
I met a university friend for the first time in ages.
永久に使える道具を探しています。
えいきゅう に つかえる どうぐ を さがして います。
eikyuu ni tsukaeru dougu o sagashite imasu.
I am looking for tools that will last for good.