Meaning

Primary

Buddha

Word Type

noun

Explanation

The kanji and the word are exactly the same. That means they share meanings as well.

Reading

ほとけ
  • Kyoko
    (Tokyo accent, female)
  • Kenichi
    (Tokyo accent, male)

Explanation

Since this word is made up of a single kanji, it should use the kun'yomi reading. When learning the kanji, you didn't learn that reading, so here's a mnemonic to help you with this word: You go up to Buddha. You want to rub his head for good luck, because that's what you hear is good to do. Right before you touch him, he backs off and says, "Whoa! I'm hot, okay?" (ほとけ). You touch him and it burns your hand clean off.

Imagine saying "hot, okay?" in a strange accent to help you to remember.

Context

Common Word Combinations

  • 仏の道

    the way of the Buddha, the teachings of Buddha

    仏の教え

    the teachings of Buddha

    仏の世界

    the world of Buddha

Context Sentences

ビエトはヤクザをやめて、仏の道に入ることを決意しました。

Viet has decided to leave the Yakuza group and follow the teachings of Buddha.

あの人は仏のような人ですが、「仏の顔も三度まで」ですよ。

That person may seem as serene as a Buddha, but even a Buddha can lose patience after three incidents.

私はイヤなことは知らずに、「知らぬが仏」でいる方がいいよ。

It's often better to live by the principle of 'ignorance is bliss' and remain oblivious to unpleasant matters.

Kanji Composition