Quick answer
操 is the kanji for "Operate". It is a JLPT N1 kanji. The main reading is みさお (misao). Stroke-order practice is available below.
Meaning
Operate
Also : Steer · Maneuver · Manipulate · Chastity · Fidelity · Virginity
Learn 操 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
16 strokes
Radicals
Example Sentences
リモコンの操作は簡単で、誰でもできる。
りもこんのそうさはかんたんで、だれでもできる。
Operating the remote control is simple and anyone can do it.
複雑な機械の操縦には、専門知識が必要だ。
ふくざつなきかいのそうしゅうには、せんもんちしきがひつようだ。
Operating complex machinery requires specialized knowledge.
Vocabulary using 操
Grammar to study at this level
- [Noun/Verb dictionary form] + に際して～に際して (ni saishite) - On the occasion of
- [Noun] + をもとに(して)～をもとに (wo moto ni) - Based on
- [Noun/Verb dictionary form] + にあたって～にあたって (ni atatte) - When doing; Upon
- [Verb/Adjective/Noun] + にしろ/にせよ～にしろ／にせよ (ni shiro/ni seyo) - Even if; Regardless of
- [Noun] + をめぐって～をめぐって (wo megutte) - Concerning; Over; Surrounding
Last updated Jul 25, 2026
Learn 操 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.