Quick answer
則 is the kanji for "Rule". The most common reading is のっと.る (notoru). Mnemonics and example sentences are listed below.
Meaning
Rule
Also : Follow · Based on · Model after
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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
9 strokes
Radicals
Memory Aid
The kanji 則 represents 'RULE'. Think of this shape as a picture representing the concept of rule.
On-reading: そく — remember this sound by associating it with rule. Kun-reading: のっと.る.
Example Sentences
規則を守ることは、社会生活の基本です。
きそくをまもることは、しゃかいせいかつのきほんです。
Following rules is the foundation of social life.
原則として、遅刻は認められません。
げんそくとして、ちこくはみとめられません。
In principle, lateness is not permitted.
Vocabulary using 則
Grammar to study at this level
- [Noun] + に伴い～に伴い (ni tomonai) - Along with / In accordance with
- [Noun] + をはじめ～をはじめ (wo hajime) - Starting with / Including
- [Noun] + に応じて～に応じて (ni oujite) - According to / In response to
- [Noun] + から + [Noun] + にかけて～にかけて (ni kakete) - From...to / In the area of
- [Noun] + に限り～に限り (ni kagiri) - Limited to / Only
Last updated Jul 4, 2026
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