Quick answer
死 is the kanji for "to die". The most common reading is し.ぬ (shinu). Mnemonics and example sentences are listed below.
Meaning
to die
Also : Death
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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 死 represents 'DEATH'. Think of this shape as a picture representing the concept of death.
On-reading: し — remember this sound by associating it with death. Kun-reading: し.ぬ.
Example Sentences
この小説では主人公が死にます。
このしょうせつではしゅじんこうがしにます。
In this novel, the main character dies.
大切な人が死んで、とても悲しかったです。
たいせつなひとがしんで、とてもかなしかったです。
A dear person passed away and I was very sad.
Vocabulary using 死
Grammar to study at this level
Last updated Jun 11, 2026
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