Quick answer
初 is the kanji for "Beginning". It is a JLPT N3 kanji. The main reading is はじ.め (hajime). Stroke-order practice is available below.
Meaning
Beginning
Also : First time
Learn 初 with SRS
Free to start — no credit card. Track every review with spaced repetition.
Readings
kun = Japanese reading · on = Chinese reading
Practice writing
Trace the kanji stroke by stroke with a visual guide.
Stroke Order
7 strokes
Radicals
Memory Aid
The kanji 初 represents 'FIRST TIME'. Think of this shape as a picture representing the concept of first time.
On-reading: しょ — remember this sound by associating it with first time. Kun-reading: はじ.め.
Example Sentences
初心を忘れないようにします。
しょしんをわすれないようにします。
I'll try not to forget my beginner's mind.
初めての海外出張では、言葉や文化の違いに戸惑うこともありましたが、貴重な経験になりました。
はじめてのかいがいしゅっちょうでは、ことばやぶんかのちがいにとまどうこともありましたが、きちょうなけいけんになりました。
On my first overseas business trip, I was sometimes confused by language and cultural differences, but it became a valuable experience.
Vocabulary using 初
Grammar to study at this level
- [Verb dictionary/nai form] + ように～ように (you ni) - So that
- [Verb dictionary form] + ことにする～ことにする (koto ni suru) - Decide to
- [Verb dictionary form] + ことになる～ことになる (koto ni naru) - It has been decided that
- [Noun/Verb te-form] + ばかり～ばかり (bakari) - Only / Nothing but
- [Verb/Adjective plain form] + はずだ～はずだ (hazu da) - Should be / It is expected
Last updated Jun 11, 2026
Learn 初 with Spaced Repetition
InitialJ uses scientifically proven SRS to help you memorize kanji and vocabulary for the JLPT. N5 is free forever; no credit card required.