斤
axe, 1.32 lb, catty, counter for loaves of bread, axe radical (no. 69)
JLPTN1StatusJōyō · secondary schoolStrokes4
Readings
On'yomi
- キン
Kun'yomi
—
Meaning
斤 centers on an axe as a tool and a unit of weight. The weight sense (about 1.32 lb or a catty) and the counter for loaves of bread are applications of the axe's historical use in measuring and cutting.
Most common words using 斤
Study
Etymology
斤 is a pictograph of an axe head, with the modern form preserving the shape of the blade and handle. The weight and counter meanings derive from the axe's use as a standard tool for measuring and cutting.
Meaning mnemonic
The shape of 斤 looks like an axe head with a handle. Picture a heavy axe used to chop wood and weigh out portions of bread.
Reading mnemonic
For キン, imagine a king (キン) wielding an axe to measure out exact portions of bread for his subjects.