Quick answer
研 is the kanji for "to polish". A common reading is と.ぐ (togu). You can also practice writing it on this page.
Meaning
to polish
Also : to sharpen · to study
Learn 研 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
9 strokes
Radicals
Memory Aid
The kanji 研 represents 'POLISH'. Think of this shape as a picture representing the concept of polish.
On-reading: けん — remember this sound by associating it with polish. Kun-reading: と.ぐ.
Example Sentences
大学で研究を続けています。
だいがくでけんきゅうをつづけています。
I continue my research at university.
研修に参加することになりました。
けんしゅうにさんかすることになりました。
It was decided that I'll participate in the training.
Vocabulary using 研
Grammar to study at this level
Last updated Jun 11, 2026
Learn 研 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.