Quick answer
子 is the kanji for "Child". A common reading is こ (ko). You can also practice writing it on this page.
Meaning
Child
Learn 子 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
3 strokes
Radicals
Memory Aid
A baby wrapped tight in swaddling clothes with arms and legs tucked — the simplest shape captures the tiniest newest human life.
こ (ko) sounds like 'co' — a colleague's baby is cute and so small.
Example Sentences
子どもと駅まで歩きました。
こどもとえきまであるきました。
I walked to the station with a child.
女子学生と話しました。
じょしがくせいとはなしました。
I talked with female students.
Vocabulary using 子
Grammar to study at this level
Last updated Jun 18, 2026
Learn 子 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.