求

JLPT N3

Seek, request

Readings

On’yomi: キュウ, グ (kyuu, gu)

Kun’yomi: もと(める) (moto(meru))

• もと(める) – to seek, to request, to desire, to want

Structure

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Detailed Explanation

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Mnemonic

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Etymology

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Visual Tip

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Vocabulary

求める

もとめる

seek

要求

ようきゅう

demand

求人

きゅうじん

job offer

探求

たんきゅう

pursuit

請求

せいきゅう

bill

Example Sentences

答えを求めます。

こたえをもとめます。

I seek an answer.

要求します。

ようきゅうします。

I make a demand.

求人があります。

きゅうじんがあります。

There is a job offer.

真理を探求します。

しんりをたんきゅうします。

I pursue truth.

料金を請求します。

りょうきんをせいきゅうします。

I bill the fee.

Cultural Note

🎎 求 reflects a deep concept in Japanese thought — the continuous pursuit of improvement, knowledge, and emotional fulfillment.
• In Buddhism and philosophy, 求 represents the human drive to seek enlightenment (求道 – ぐどう / the pursuit of the Way).
• In modern life, it’s seen in words like 求人 (job seeking) and 追求 (pursuit of goals), showing both material and spiritual ambition.
• The character embodies effort with purpose — the Japanese idea that striving sincerely (一生懸命) brings growth and meaning.