Quick answer
持 is the kanji for "to hold". It is a JLPT N4 kanji. The main reading is も.つ (motsu). Stroke-order practice is available below.
Meaning
to hold
Also : to have · to keep
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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 持 represents 'HOLD'. Think of this shape as a picture representing the concept of hold.
On-reading: じ — remember this sound by associating it with hold. Kun-reading: も.つ.
Example Sentences
財布を持って出かけました。
さいふをもってでかけました。
I went out with my wallet.
夢を持ち続けることが大切です。
ゆめをもちつづけることがたいせつです。
It's important to keep holding onto dreams.
Vocabulary using 持
Grammar to study at this level
Last updated Jun 11, 2026
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