JLPT N4

Many, much

Readings

On’yomi:(ta)
Kun’yomi: おお(い) (oo(i))
• おお.い (ooi) – many, much

Vocabulary

多い
おおい
many
多分
たぶん
probably
多数
たすう
majority
多様
たよう
variety
多忙
たぼう
busy

Example Sentences

人が多いです。
ひと が おおい です。
There are many people.
多分行きます。
たぶん いきます。
I will probably go.

Cultural Note

🌸 In Japan, the concept of “多” (abundance) is often viewed positively but moderately — balance is valued.
For example:
• 多くの人 (おおく の ひと) – many people — often used respectfully, like “many thanks” (多くの感謝).
• However, too much (過多) can imply imbalance, which is discouraged in Japanese culture.
• The idea of “just enough” (ちょうどいい) — not too much, not too little — reflects Japan’s sense of harmony (wa).
So, while 多 suggests richness or variety, it’s always ideally balanced by mindfulness. 🍵