Meaning

Primary

Strict

Alternatives

Harsh, Severe

Word Type

い adjective

Explanation

This is a single kanji with an on the end, meaning you know it's probably an adjective. What's the adjective form of strict? It is also strict.

Reading

きびしい
  • Kyoko
    (Tokyo accent, female)
  • Kenichi
    (Tokyo accent, male)

Explanation

The most strict creature in Japan is the key bee (きび). Little key bees have to be very strict about locking the doors to their hive. If they aren't strict enough, the scary Japanese hornets will get in and kill them all. Have you seen those things? They're terrifying!

Context

Context Sentences

インターネットでは厳しいコメントを書く人が多い。

Many people write harsh comments on the internet.

Kanji Composition