Quick answer
切 is the kanji for "to cut". The most common reading is き.る (kiru). Mnemonics and example sentences are listed below.
Meaning
to cut
Also : Cutoff · Sharp
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Readings
kun = Japanese reading · on = Chinese reading
Practice writing
Trace the kanji stroke by stroke with a visual guide.
Stroke Order
4 strokes
Radicals
Memory Aid
The kanji 切 represents 'CUT'. Think of this shape as a picture representing the concept of cut.
On-reading: せつ — remember this sound by associating it with cut. Kun-reading: き.る.
Example Sentences
ハサミで紙を切りました。
はさみでかみをきりました。
I cut the paper with scissors.
大切な友達が引っ越して寂しくなりました。
たいせつなともだちがひっこしてさびしくなりました。
My dear friend moved away and I feel lonely.
Vocabulary using 切
Grammar to study at this level
Last updated Jun 11, 2026
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