JLPT N5
Kun-yomi (Japanese reading)
ま、ま-、まこと
On-yomi (Chinese reading)
シン
Meaning
Buddhist sect, reality, true
Stroke Count
10 strokes
Examples

真剣

📝 How to Remember

「真」has 10 strokes. Break it into smaller visual components — most complex kanji are combinations of simpler parts you already know.

⚠️ Teacher's NoteOn-yomi vs Kun-yomi

「真」has both On-yomi (シン) and Kun-yomi (ま、ま-、まこと). On-yomi is typically used in compound words (two kanji together), while Kun-yomi appears when the kanji stands alone or with hiragana.

🎯 JLPT N5 — How It's Tested

もんだい1 (Kanji Reading) & もんだい2 (Kanji Writing)

「真」typically appears in もんだい1, where you choose the correct reading, and もんだい2, where you choose the correct kanji for a hiragana word. Make sure you can recognize it both ways.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you read the kanji 「真」?+
On-yomi: シン. Kun-yomi: ま、ま-、まこと.
What does 「真」mean in Japanese?+
「真」means "Buddhist sect, reality, true". It is a JLPT N5 kanji — one of the most essential characters for beginners.
How many strokes does 「真」have?+
「真」is written with 10 strokes.
Is 「真」on the JLPT N5?+
Yes, 「真」is an official JLPT N5 kanji. Knowing all ~110 N5 kanji is essential for passing the exam.
Can you give an example sentence using 「真」?+
Yes: 真剣. Practicing kanji in context is one of the most effective ways to remember them.