Quick answer
大 is the kanji for "Big". The most common reading is おお (oo). Mnemonics and example sentences are listed below.
Meaning
Big
Also : Large
Learn 大 with SRS
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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
3 strokes
Radicals
Memory Aid
A person with arms spread as wide as possible — showing maximum size by stretching arms to their limit. Compare 大 to 人 (arms normal) and 小 (arms pinched).
だい (dai) sounds like "die" — something so BIG it's overwhelming (die laughing).
Example Sentences
大きな犬が好きです。
おおきないぬがすきです。
I like big dogs.
大学で日本語を勉強します。
だいがくでにほんごをべんきょうします。
I study Japanese at university.
Vocabulary using 大
Grammar to study at this level
Last updated Jun 11, 2026
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