38
願
Wish, Request
ねがう (negau), ねがい (negai)
JLPT N3
Interesting Fact
Japanese people write their wishes on wooden plaques called 絵馬 (ema) at shrines. These wishes are expressed using the kanji 願.
Memory Trick
Imagine holding your hands together and making a heartfelt wish. That's the feeling behind 願.
Readings
Onyomi: ガン (gan)
Kunyomi: ねがう (negau), ねがい (negai)
Example Words
願う
ねがう (negau)
To wish
お願い
おねがい (onegai)
Request
願書
がんしょ (gansho)
Application form
願望
がんぼう (ganbou)
Desire
Example Sentence
家族の幸せを願っています。
かぞく の しあわせ を ねがっています。
kazoku no shiawase o negatteimasu
I wish for my family's happiness.