円
JLPT N5
Yen, circle
Readings
On’yomi: エン (en)
Kun’yomi: まる（い） (maru(i))
Detailed Explanation
Vocabulary
円
えん
yen
百円
ひゃくえん
hundred yen
円形
えんけい
circular shape
一円
いちえん
one yen
円安
えんやす
weak yen
Example Sentences
百円です。
ひゃくえん です。
It is one hundred yen.
円形の机です。
えんけいの つくえです。
It is a round table.
一円あります。
いちえん あります。
I have one yen.
Cultural Note
💴 円 (en) is both a mathematical and cultural symbol in Japan.
1. Currency (Japanese Yen):
o Japan’s currency, 円 (えん), literally means “circle.”
o Introduced in 1871 (Meiji era), it replaced feudal currencies and represented uniformity and completeness — a “round” coin symbolizing national unity and modern economy.
2. Symbolism of the Circle:
o The circle represents harmony (和), perfection, and eternity in Japanese aesthetics.
o You see it in the rising sun (日章旗), zen ensō (円相) circle in calligraphy, and even in architecture and gardens, where circular shapes evoke calmness and balance.
3. Language & Idioms:
o 円満（えんまん） – harmonious, peaceful
→ Used to describe good relationships: 円満な家庭 (“a harmonious family”).
o 丸い (まるい) can also mean “well-rounded” or “mild-mannered,” symbolizing maturity and kindness.
1. Currency (Japanese Yen):
o Japan’s currency, 円 (えん), literally means “circle.”
o Introduced in 1871 (Meiji era), it replaced feudal currencies and represented uniformity and completeness — a “round” coin symbolizing national unity and modern economy.
2. Symbolism of the Circle:
o The circle represents harmony (和), perfection, and eternity in Japanese aesthetics.
o You see it in the rising sun (日章旗), zen ensō (円相) circle in calligraphy, and even in architecture and gardens, where circular shapes evoke calmness and balance.
3. Language & Idioms:
o 円満（えんまん） – harmonious, peaceful
→ Used to describe good relationships: 円満な家庭 (“a harmonious family”).
o 丸い (まるい) can also mean “well-rounded” or “mild-mannered,” symbolizing maturity and kindness.