相

JLPT N3

Mutual, appearance

Readings

On’yomi: ソウ, ショウ (sou, shō)

Kun’yomi: あい (ai)

• あい – together, mutually, each other

Structure

Radical: Purchase the course for full access of this content.

Composition: Purchase the course for full access of this content.

Detailed Explanation

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Mnemonic

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Etymology

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Visual Tip

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Vocabulary

相談

そうだん

consultation

相手

あいて

partner

相当

そうとう

suitable

相互

そうご

mutual

相違

そうい

difference

Example Sentences

相談します。

そうだんします。

I consult.

相手を選びます。

あいてをえらびます。

I choose a partner.

相当な量です。

そうとうなりょうです。

It is a considerable amount.

相互に助けます。

そうごにたすけます。

We help each other.

意見に相違があります。

いけんにそういがあります。

There is a difference of opinion.

Cultural Note

👥 相 emphasizes mutual interaction, relationships, and appearances in Japanese culture.
• Found in daily life in 相手, 相性, 相談, highlighting interaction and compatibility.
• Appears in formal or official contexts like 首相 (prime minister), showing hierarchical or leadership positions.
• The kanji carries the nuance of mutual consideration or observation, culturally important in Japanese social interactions.