Quick answer
支 is the kanji for "to support". The most common reading is ささ.える (sasaeru). Mnemonics and example sentences are listed below.
Meaning
to support
Also : to sustain · Branch
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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
4 strokes
Radicals
Memory Aid
The kanji 支 represents 'BRANCH'. Think of this shape as a picture representing the concept of branch.
On-reading: し — remember this sound by associating it with branch. Kun-reading: ささ.える.
Example Sentences
組織を支える仕事をしています。
そしきをささえるしごとをしています。
I do work that supports the organization.
支店の業務を円滑に進めるために、本社との連携が欠かせません。
してんのぎょうむをえんかつにすすめるために、ほんしゃとのれんけいがかかせません。
Smooth coordination with headquarters is essential for the branch office to operate effectively.
Vocabulary using 支
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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