Quick answer
早 is the kanji for "Early". It is a JLPT N4 kanji. The main reading is はや.い (hayai). Stroke-order practice is available below.
Meaning
Early
Also : Fast
Learn 早 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
6 strokes
Radicals
Memory Aid
The kanji 早 represents 'EARLY'. Think of this shape as a picture representing the concept of early.
On-reading: そう — remember this sound by associating it with early. Kun-reading: はや.い.
Example Sentences
明日は早起きしなければなりません。
あしたははやおきしなければなりません。
I have to wake up early tomorrow.
早速始めましょう。
さっそくはじめましょう。
Let's start right away.
Vocabulary using 早
Grammar to study at this level
Last updated Jun 11, 2026
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