Quick answer
増 is the kanji for "Add". The most common reading is ま.す (masu). Mnemonics and example sentences are listed below.
Meaning
Add
Also : Augment · Gain · Promote
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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
14 strokes
Radicals
Memory Aid
The kanji 増 represents 'INCREASE'. Think of this shape as a picture representing the concept of increase.
On-reading: ぞう — remember this sound by associating it with increase. Kun-reading: ま.す.
Example Sentences
勉強時間を増やしました。
べんきょうじかんをふやしました。
I increased my study time.
人口が増加しています。
じんこうがぞうかしています。
The population is increasing.
Vocabulary using 増
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
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