Quick answer
由 is the kanji for "Reason". It is a JLPT N3 kanji. The main reading is よし (yoshi). Stroke-order practice is available below.
Meaning
Reason
Also : Cause · Wherefore
Learn 由 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
5 strokes
Radicals
Memory Aid
The kanji 由 represents 'WHEREFORE'. Think of this shape as a picture representing the concept of wherefore.
On-reading: ゆ — remember this sound by associating it with wherefore. Kun-reading: よし.
Example Sentences
理由を教えてください。
りゆうをおしえてください。
Please tell me the reason.
自由に意見を言ってください。
じゆうにいけんをいってください。
Please speak your opinion freely.
Vocabulary using 由
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
Learn 由 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.