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JapanLingo

cabinet / tower

N1
Onyomi
Stroke count
14
JLPT
N1

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 deep overhanging eave carried on two posts with its rafter ends showing, with the kanji 閣 ("cabinet") drawn into the picture.

Picture a deep overhanging eave carried on two posts with its rafter ends showing: that is what 閣 means — cabinet / tower. Now find the part that anchors it in the character itself, 門 (gate) — a double gate with both doors closed, and beside it 各 (each) — one foot set down beside a mouth. Drop that part into the picture and the shape stops being something separate to memorise.

Stroke Order

Stroke count: 14

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 14 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

kakuryou

cabinet minister

kakuryoutohanashimasu

to talk with the cabinet minister

kakuryouniaimasu

to meet the cabinet minister

kakuryounikikimasu

to ask the cabinet minister

kakuryounirenrakushimasu

to contact the cabinet minister

Example sentences (2)

atarashii kakuryou ga ninmei saremashita.

New cabinet ministers were appointed.

kakuryou to mo arou tachiba no hito no hatsugen wa, sore dake omoku uketomeraremasu.

Remarks from someone in the position of a cabinet minister are taken that much more seriously.