Quick answer
私 is the kanji for "Private". It is a JLPT N4 kanji. The main reading is わたくし (watakushi). Stroke-order practice is available below.
Meaning
Private
Also : I · Me · Personal
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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
7 strokes
Radicals
Memory Aid
The kanji 私 represents 'PRIVATE'. Think of this shape as a picture representing the concept of private.
On-reading: し — remember this sound by associating it with private. Kun-reading: わたくし.
Example Sentences
私は来年から日本に留学するつもりです。
わたしはらいねんからにほんにりゅうがくするつもりです。
I intend to study in Japan starting next year.
私のかばんを間違えて持っていかれてしまいました。
わたしのかばんをまちがえてもっていかれてしまいました。
Someone mistakenly took my bag.
Vocabulary using 私
Grammar to study at this level
Last updated Jun 18, 2026
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