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JapanLingo

connection / person in charge

N3
Onyomi
Kunyomi
Stroke count
9
JLPT
N3

Onyomi are readings often used in compound words. Kunyomi are native Japanese readings. Learn each reading with an example word.

Memory tip

A flat illustration of a standing figure holding one end of a thread that loops away and ties back on itself, with the kanji 係 ("connection") drawn into the picture.

Break 係 down and you get 亻 (person) — a person standing at the left of the scene, and beside it 系 (system / lineage) — a hand holding the top of a thread that hangs down in loops. Picture a standing figure holding one end of a thread that loops away and ties back on itself, put 係 inside it, and let that scene stand for "connection" — connection / person in charge. The odder the picture, the better it sticks.

Stroke Order

Stroke count: 9

General writing tips

These general rules have exceptions. Follow the animation and numbered frames for this character.

  • •Write from top to bottom.
  • •Write from left to right.
  • •Write horizontal strokes before the vertical strokes that cross them.
  • •Draw an outer enclosure first, then fill in what is inside.
  • •In symmetric shapes, write the centre before the left and right sides.
  • •This kanji has 9 strokes — trace them in order in the practice area below.

Step by step

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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

kankei

relationship

kankeigataisetsudesu

relationship is important

kankeigahitsuyoudesu

relationship is necessary

kankeiokangaemasu

to think about relationship

kankeinitsuitehanashimasu

to talk about relationship

Example sentences (3)

douryou to yoi kankei o tsukuritai desu.

I want to build good relationships with my coworkers.

kono mondai wa watashi no shigoto to wa kankei ga nai you desu.

This problem does not seem to have anything to do with my job.

okyakusama to no shinrai kankei ga daiji desu.

A relationship of trust with customers matters.