Quick answer
礼 is the kanji for "Bow". A common reading is れい (rei). You can also practice writing it on this page.
Meaning
Bow
Also : Salute · Ceremony · Thanks
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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
5 strokes
Radicals
Memory Aid
The kanji 礼 represents 'SALUTE'. Think of this shape as a picture representing the concept of salute.
On-reading: れい — remember this sound by associating it with salute.
Example Sentences
ご親切にお礼を言います。
ごしんせつにおれいをいいます。
I thank you for your kindness.
礼儀正しく挨拶しました。
れいぎただしくあいさつしました。
I greeted politely.
Vocabulary using 礼
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 17, 2026
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