think
N4- Onyomi
- コウ
- Kunyomi
- かんが(える)
- Stroke count
- 6
- JLPT
- N4
Onyomi are readings often used in compound words. Kunyomi are native Japanese readings. Learn each reading with an example word.
Memory tip
Picture an old man stroking his chin, deep in thought — 考 takes shape inside that scene and means "think".
Stroke Order
Stroke count: 6
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6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 6 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
考える
kangaeru
to think about
再考
saikou
reconsideration
考察
kousatsu
consideration
考慮
kouryo
consideration
考えて
kangaete
think about — te-form
再考する
saikousuru
to do reconsideration
Example sentences (3)
将来のことを考えています。
しょうらい の こと を かんがえています。
shourai no koto o kangaeteimasu.
I am thinking about my future.
返事をする前に、よく考えたほうがいいです。
へんじ を する まえ に、よく かんがえた ほう が いい です。
henji o suru mae ni, yoku kangaeta hou ga ii desu.
Before you reply, it is better to think it over carefully.
どちらを選んでもいいですが、よく考えたほうがいいです。
どちら を えらんで も いい です が、よく かんがえた ほう が いい です。
dochira o erande mo ii desu ga, yoku kangaeta hou ga ii desu.
You may choose either one, but it is better to think it over.