Meaning

Primary

Early

Alternatives

Fast, Quick

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 early? It's also early.

Reading

はやい
  • Kyoko
    (Tokyo accent, female)
  • Kenichi
    (Tokyo accent, male)

Explanation

The reading for this word is the kun'yomi reading, which you did not learn when you learned the kanji. You have to remember the はや portion to be able to read this word. In order to do that, here's a mnemonic:

You're fast! You're early! Your chop comes down onto your opponent's neck so quickly! As you chop him, you yell "はや!"

Context

Patterns of Use

Common Word Combinations

  • 早いうち

    while it's still early

    早い人

    an early bird

    早いほう

    the earlier one

Context Sentences

もうチェックインしたの?早い!

You've checked in already? That was quick!

一日早いけど、おめでとう!

Congratulations, even though it's a day early!

一日半でプロポーズは、さすがに早いかな?

Is proposing after a day and a half too soon?

Kanji Composition