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A2 noun #2,500 الأكثر شيوعاً 10 دقيقة للقراءة

手紙

tegami
At the A1 level, learners are introduced to 手紙 (tegami) as a basic, everyday noun meaning 'letter'. The focus is entirely on recognition and simple sentence construction. Learners are taught to associate the word with physical mail and the post office. They learn basic verbs that go with it, primarily 書く (kaku - to write) and 読む (yomu - to read). Sentences are kept short and straightforward, such as '手紙を書きます' (I write a letter) or '手紙を読みます' (I read a letter). At this stage, the cultural nuances or formal letter-writing structures are not introduced. The goal is simply to build vocabulary for daily objects and actions. Learners might also learn the word in conjunction with family members or friends, e.g., '母に手紙を書きます' (I write a letter to my mother). The particle に (ni) is emphasized as the marker for the recipient of the letter. Visual aids often show a piece of paper and an envelope to reinforce the physical nature of the word, ensuring learners do not confuse it with modern digital communication like emails or texts.
At the A2 level, the usage of 手紙 expands significantly. Learners are expected to use the word in past, present, and future tenses, and combine it with a wider variety of verbs, most notably 出す (dasu - to send/mail) and もらう (morau - to receive). They begin to construct more complex sentences using conjunctions and expressing reasons or intentions, such as '友達の誕生日に手紙を出しました' (I sent a letter for my friend's birthday) or '国から手紙をもらって、嬉しかったです' (I was happy to receive a letter from my home country). The counter for letters, 通 (つう - tsuu), is introduced at this stage (一通、二通). Learners also start to differentiate 手紙 from similar items like はがき (postcard) and 切手 (stamp). Practical role-play scenarios, such as going to the post office to mail a letter, are common A2 exercises. The concept that Japanese letters often require specific polite phrasing might be briefly mentioned, but the focus remains on functional, everyday communication and describing personal experiences related to sending and receiving mail.
At the B1 level, learners delve deeper into the cultural and practical aspects of 手紙. They are introduced to the basic structure of a formal Japanese letter, including the use of opening and closing remarks like 拝啓 (haikei) and 敬具 (keigu), as well as simple seasonal greetings (時候の挨拶). While they may not be expected to write complex business letters yet, they must be able to read and comprehend standard formal correspondence. The vocabulary surrounding 手紙 expands to include terms like 封筒 (fuutou - envelope), 便箋 (binsen - writing paper), 宛名 (atena - recipient's name/address), and 差出人 (sashidashinin - sender). Learners practice writing letters for specific purposes, such as expressing gratitude (お礼の手紙), apologizing (お詫びの手紙), or inviting someone to an event (招待状). They also learn to express the emotional weight of a letter, using phrases like '心のこもった手紙' (a heartfelt letter). Reading comprehension exercises often feature personal letters or advice columns, requiring learners to infer the sender's feelings and the relationship between the sender and recipient based on the tone and vocabulary used in the letter.
At the B2 level, mastery of 手紙 involves a high degree of cultural fluency and the ability to navigate complex, formal correspondence. Learners are expected to write and comprehend business letters (ビジネスレター) and formal social correspondence with appropriate keigo (honorifics). They must skillfully use seasonal greetings tailored to the specific month and understand the nuanced differences between various types of written communication. The word 手紙 is also encountered in more abstract or literary contexts. Learners might read essays or short stories where a letter serves as a key plot device or a metaphor for human connection. They learn idiomatic expressions and proverbs related to correspondence, such as '便りのないのは良い便り' (No news is good news). Discussions might revolve around the decline of physical letters in the digital age and the cultural value of handwritten communication in Japan. Learners at this stage can effortlessly distinguish between 手紙, 書簡 (shokan), and 便り (tayori), choosing the precise word that fits the register and tone of their speech or writing.
At the C1 level, learners engage with 手紙 in sophisticated literary, historical, and professional contexts. They can read and analyze complex epistolary literature, understanding subtle implications, historical references, and advanced vocabulary embedded within the text. They are capable of drafting highly sensitive or formal letters, such as letters of condolence, formal complaints, or complex business proposals, using impeccable grammar, keigo, and traditional formatting. The understanding of 手紙 extends beyond the physical object to its role in shaping Japanese social dynamics and history. Learners might study the evolution of letter writing in Japan, comparing modern practices with those of the Showa or Meiji eras. They can discuss the psychological impact of handwritten letters versus digital communication in academic or professional debates. Vocabulary at this level includes highly specialized terms related to epistolary etiquette, such as 頭語 (tougo - opening word), 結語 (ketsugo - closing word), and 前文 (zenbun - preamble). The ability to manipulate the tone of a letter to perfectly match the social distance and hierarchy between the sender and recipient is a hallmark of C1 proficiency.
At the C2 level, the learner's command of the concept of 手紙 is near-native. They can effortlessly comprehend archaic or highly stylized letters, including those written in classical Japanese (文語体 - bungotai) or featuring complex calligraphy (though reading cursive kanji is a separate skill, the vocabulary and structure are understood). They appreciate the aesthetic and literary value of historical letters (書簡 - shokan) by famous authors, politicians, or historical figures, understanding how these documents reflect the cultural and political zeitgeist of their time. C2 learners can write letters that are not only grammatically perfect and culturally appropriate but also eloquent, persuasive, and emotionally resonant. They master the art of using obscure or highly poetic seasonal greetings and can play with epistolary conventions for stylistic effect. They understand the deepest cultural nuances of gift-giving and correspondence, such as the specific types of paper (和紙 - washi) or ink used for different occasions. At this level, 手紙 is understood as a profound medium of human expression, deeply intertwined with the history, aesthetics, and social fabric of Japan.
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手紙 في 30 ثانية

  • Means 'letter' or 'mail' (physical paper).
  • Uses verbs: 書く (write), 出す (send), 読む (read).
  • Counted with the counter 通 (つう - tsuu).
  • Do not use for emails (メール) or texts.
The Japanese word 手紙 (てがみ - tegami) translates directly to 'letter' or 'mail' in English. It is a fundamental vocabulary word, classified at the CEFR A2 level, and is essential for everyday communication, reading comprehension, and understanding Japanese culture. The word is composed of two kanji: 手 (te), meaning 'hand', and 紙 (kami/gami), meaning 'paper'. Together, they literally mean 'hand-paper', which beautifully encapsulates the traditional act of writing a message by hand on a piece of paper. In modern Japanese, 手紙 refers specifically to a physical letter sent through the postal system or handed directly to someone, distinguishing it from electronic forms of communication such as emails (Eメール) or text messages (メッセージ). Understanding the nuance of 手紙 involves recognizing its emotional and cultural weight. A handwritten letter in Japan is often seen as a thoughtful, sincere, and deeply personal way to communicate, reserved for special occasions, formal correspondence, or expressing heartfelt emotions.
Kanji Breakdown
手 (te): Hand. Used in words like 手首 (wrist) and 歌手 (singer). 紙 (kami): Paper. Used in words like 和紙 (Japanese paper) and 折り紙 (origami).

昨日、母から手紙が届きました。

Yesterday, a letter arrived from my mother.

彼は彼女に長い手紙を書いた。

He wrote a long letter to his girlfriend.
Related Vocabulary
封筒 (ふうとう - envelope), 切手 (きって - postage stamp), 郵便局 (ゆうびんきょく - post office).

先生に感謝の手紙を送ります。

I will send a letter of gratitude to my teacher.

この手紙をポストに入れてきてください。

Please go and put this letter in the mailbox.
Cultural Significance
Despite the digital age, writing a 手紙 remains a vital practice in Japan for New Year's cards (年賀状), summer greeting cards (暑中見舞い), and formal business apologies or requests.

引き出しの奥から古い手紙を見つけた。

I found an old letter in the back of the drawer.
To fully master the word 手紙, one must also learn the specific verbs that collocate with it. You 'write' a letter (手紙を書く), you 'send' or 'put out' a letter (手紙を出す), you 'receive' a letter (手紙をもらう / 受け取る), and you 'read' a letter (手紙を読む). The act of sending a letter involves placing it in an envelope (封筒), attaching a stamp (切手), and dropping it in a postbox (ポスト) or taking it to the post office (郵便局). The physical nature of 手紙 makes it a tangible token of connection, often kept as a keepsake for years. In literature and music, 手紙 is a powerful motif representing longing, distance, memory, and unspoken feelings. Whether it is a love letter (ラブレター / 恋文), a business letter (ビジネスレター), or a simple note to a friend, the word 手紙 encompasses all these physical written communications. By understanding both its literal meaning and its cultural connotations, learners can use 手紙 accurately and appreciate its significance in Japanese society.
Using the word 手紙 (tegami) correctly involves understanding its grammatical function as a noun and the specific verbs, particles, and adjectives that commonly accompany it. As a standard noun, 手紙 can be the subject of a sentence (手紙が...), the direct object (手紙を...), or the indirect object/target (手紙に...). The most essential collocations are the verbs used to describe actions related to letters. When you create a letter, you use the verb 書く (kaku - to write): 手紙を書く (to write a letter). When you dispatch the letter, the most common verb is 出す (dasu - to put out/send): 手紙を出す (to send a letter). While 送る (okuru - to send) is also correct and frequently used, 出す is particularly idiomatic for mailing letters and postcards.
Common Verbs
書く (kaku - write), 出す (dasu - send/mail), 送る (okuru - send), 読む (yomu - read), もらう (morau - receive), 届く (todoku - arrive).

明日、友達に手紙を出します。

I will mail a letter to my friend tomorrow.

国にいる家族から手紙が届いた。

A letter arrived from my family in my home country.
Particles Usage
〜から手紙をもらう (receive a letter FROM ~), 〜へ手紙を送る (send a letter TO ~), 手紙で知らせる (inform BY letter).

彼女は泣きながらその手紙を読んだ。

She read the letter while crying.

毎日、ファンから何百通もの手紙が来ます。

Hundreds of letters come from fans every day.
Adjective Combinations
長い手紙 (long letter), 短い手紙 (short letter), 丁寧な手紙 (polite letter), 昔の手紙 (old letter).

これは祖父が祖母に宛てた手紙です。

This is a letter addressed to my grandmother by my grandfather.
Furthermore, the contents or reply to a letter is referred to as 返事 (henji). To say 'reply to a letter', you would say 手紙の返事を書く (write a reply to a letter). In formal Japanese, the structure of a 手紙 is highly codified. It typically begins with a seasonal greeting (時候の挨拶 - jikou no aisatsu), followed by an inquiry about the recipient's health, the main body of the text, and concluding remarks wishing them well. Words like 拝啓 (haikei - Dear Sir/Madam) and 敬具 (keigu - Sincerely yours) are standard markers used at the very beginning and end of formal letters. While beginners do not need to master these formal epistolary conventions immediately, recognizing them is crucial for reading comprehension at the intermediate and advanced levels. In casual contexts, simply using 手紙 with basic verbs is sufficient for clear and natural communication.
The word 手紙 (tegami) is ubiquitous in Japanese daily life, media, literature, and education. You will encounter it frequently in conversations about communication, relationships, and postal services. In everyday life, you might hear it at home when someone checks the mail ('手紙来てる？' - Did any letters come?), at the post office when buying stamps or asking about postage ('この手紙を速達でお願いします' - Please send this letter by special delivery), or at school/work when discussing correspondence.
Everyday Contexts
Post offices, homes, schools, offices, stationery stores.

郵便屋さん、今日は手紙ありますか？

Mail carrier, are there any letters today?

ラジオでリスナーからの手紙を読み上げる。

Reading a letter from a listener on the radio.
Media and Pop Culture
Song titles (e.g., Angela Aki's 'Tegami ~Haikei Jugo no Kimi e~'), anime episodes, drama plots revolving around lost or discovered letters.

映画の中で、主人公が亡き妻からの手紙を見つけるシーンが感動的だ。

The scene in the movie where the protagonist finds a letter from his late wife is moving.

卒業式で親への感謝の手紙を読むのが恒例です。

It is a tradition to read a letter of gratitude to one's parents at the graduation ceremony.
Literature
Epistolary novels, memoirs, historical archives. Letters are a primary source of historical and biographical information.

夏目漱石の書いた手紙が展示されている。

Letters written by Natsume Soseki are on display.
In educational settings, writing a 手紙 is a standard assignment for language learners to practice grammar, keigo (honorifics), and formatting. Japanese students also learn how to write formal letters in their Kokugo (national language) classes. In the business world, while emails dominate, formal physical letters (often referred to as 書状 or 案内状 depending on the context, but broadly understood as 手紙) are still used for important announcements, apologies, or contracts. Furthermore, radio shows and podcasts frequently feature a segment where they read 'letters' from listeners. Even if these are submitted via email or web forms, the hosts often still refer to them affectionately as お便り (otayori) or 手紙, maintaining the traditional, intimate feel of physical correspondence. Understanding where and how 手紙 appears in these various contexts enriches a learner's cultural fluency and listening comprehension.
When learning the word 手紙 (tegami), learners often make a few predictable mistakes, primarily stemming from direct translation from their native language or confusion with similar Japanese terms. The most frequent error is using 手紙 to refer to electronic messages. In English, one might say 'I sent him a letter' metaphorically or broadly to mean a long email, but in Japanese, 手紙 strictly implies a physical piece of paper. If you send an email, you must use メール (meeru) or Eメール (iimeeru). If you send a text message, you use メッセージ (messeji) or LINE (ライン).
Mistake 1: Digital vs Physical
Incorrect: パソコンで手紙を送った。 (I sent a letter on the computer.) Correct: パソコンでメールを送った。 (I sent an email on the computer.)

❌ 携帯で手紙を打つ。
⭕ 携帯でメールを打つ。

Typing an email/message on a cell phone.

❌ 先生に電子手紙を送りました。
⭕ 先生にEメールを送りました。

I sent an email to the teacher.
Mistake 2: Postcards vs Letters
Learners sometimes use 手紙 for postcards. A postcard is はがき (hagaki). While a postcard is a type of mail, 手紙 usually implies a message enclosed in an envelope.

❌ 旅行先から絵手紙を出した。(Unless it's specifically an 'etegami' art piece)
⭕ 旅行先から絵葉書（えはがき）を出した。

I sent a picture postcard from my travel destination.

❌ 年賀手紙を書く。
⭕ 年賀状（ねんがじょう）を書く。

Writing New Year's cards.
Mistake 3: Wrong Counter
Counting letters as 一個 (ikko), 二個 (niko) or 一枚 (ichimai), 二枚 (nimai) is incorrect. The counter for letters is 通 (つう - tsuu).

❌ 手紙を三枚もらった。
⭕ 手紙を三通もらった。

I received three letters.
Another subtle mistake is related to register and tone. When writing a formal 手紙 in Japanese, one cannot simply translate an English letter structure directly. English letters often start with 'Dear [Name]' and get straight to the point. Japanese formal letters require specific opening greetings (頭語 - tougo) like 拝啓 (haikei) and seasonal greetings before mentioning the main topic. Failing to include these in a business or formal context can make the sender appear rude or uneducated. However, for casual letters to friends, a simple '〜へ' (To ~) or '〜元気？' (Are you well?) is perfectly acceptable. Mastering these distinctions ensures that your use of 手紙, both as a vocabulary word and as a medium of communication, is accurate and culturally appropriate.
The Japanese language has several words related to written communication, mail, and messages. While 手紙 (tegami) is the most common and versatile word for a physical letter, understanding its synonyms and related terms helps refine your vocabulary and choose the most appropriate word for the context. Some words are more formal, some refer to specific types of mail, and others encompass broader concepts of communication.
便り (たより - tayori)
Means 'news', 'tidings', or 'correspondence'. It has a softer, more poetic, or nostalgic nuance than 手紙. It often implies hearing from someone after a long time.

息子から何の便りもない。（息子から何の手紙もない。）

There is no news/letter from my son.

ラジオ番組にお便りを送る。

Send a message/letter to a radio program.
書簡 (しょかん - shokan)
A highly formal, academic, or literary word for 'letter' or 'epistle'. You will see this in historical contexts, legal documents, or literature (e.g., a collection of an author's letters).

大統領の公式な書簡が公開された。

The president's official letter was released.

パウロの書簡（聖書）

The Epistles of Paul (Bible)
郵便物 (ゆうびんぶつ - yuubinbutsu)
A broad term meaning 'mail' or 'postal items'. This includes letters (手紙), postcards (はがき), packages (小包), and bills. It focuses on the item as an object handled by the postal service.

机の上に郵便物が山積みになっている。

Mail is piled up on the desk.
Other related terms include メッセージ (messeji - message), which is broadly used for any communication, often digital or spoken; メール (meeru - email), the standard for electronic letters; and 文 (ふみ - fumi), an archaic, poetic word for letter used in classical Japanese literature (e.g., The Tale of Genji) or historical dramas. Additionally, specific types of letters have their own names, such as 恋文 (こいぶみ - koibumi) or ラブレター (raburetaa) for a love letter, 招待状 (しょうたいじょう - shoutaijou) for an invitation letter, and 礼状 (れいじょう - reijou) for a thank-you letter. By distinguishing 手紙 from these synonyms, you can express yourself with greater precision and understand the subtle nuances of Japanese communication.

How Formal Is It?

رسمي

""

مستوى الصعوبة

قواعد يجب معرفتها

أمثلة حسب المستوى

1

これは手紙です。

This is a letter.

Basic noun identification using 'kore wa ~ desu'.

2

手紙を書きます。

I write a letter.

Direct object marker 'o' with the verb 'kaku' (to write).

3

手紙を読みます。

I read a letter.

Direct object marker 'o' with the verb 'yomu' (to read).

4

母に手紙を書きます。

I write a letter to my mother.

Particle 'ni' indicating the recipient.

5

手紙が来ました。

A letter came.

Subject marker 'ga' with the verb 'kuru' (to come).

6

長い手紙です。

It is a long letter.

Adjective 'nagai' (long) modifying the noun.

7

手紙を見ます。

I look at the letter.

Direct object marker 'o' with the verb 'miru' (to see/look).

8

だれの手紙ですか。

Whose letter is it?

Question word 'dare' (who) with the possessive particle 'no'.

1

昨日、友達に手紙を出しました。

I sent a letter to my friend yesterday.

Past tense of 'dasu' (to send/put out).

2

郵便局へ手紙を出しに行きます。

I am going to the post office to send a letter.

Verb stem + 'ni iku' to express purpose of movement.

3

先生から手紙をもらいました。

I received a letter from my teacher.

Particle 'kara' (from) with the verb 'morau' (to receive).

4

この手紙に切手を貼ってください。

Please put a stamp on this letter.

Te-form + 'kudasai' for a polite request.

5

手紙の返事をまだ書いていません。

I haven't written a reply to the letter yet.

'Mada' + te-form + 'imasen' for an action not yet completed.

6

きれいな封筒で手紙を送りました。

I sent a letter in a pretty envelope.

Particle 'de' indicating the means or state.

7

家族に毎月手紙を書くつもりです。

I plan to write a letter to my family every month.

Dictionary form + 'tsumori desu' to express intention.

8

手紙を二通受け取りました。

I received two letters.

Use of the counter 'tsuu' for letters.

1

お世話になった方に、お礼の手紙を書きました。

I wrote a thank-you letter to the person who helped me.

Modifying a noun with a verb phrase ('osewa ni natta kata').

2

手紙の最初に「拝啓」と書くのが日本の習慣です。

It is a Japanese custom to write 'Haikei' at the beginning of a letter.

Nominalizing a verb phrase with 'no' to make it the subject.

3

メールより手紙のほうが、気持ちが伝わると思います。

I think feelings are conveyed better through a letter than an email.

Comparison structure: '~yori ~no hou ga'.

4

引き出しを整理していたら、昔の手紙が出てきた。

While I was organizing my drawer, an old letter turned up.

Conditional 'tara' expressing an unexpected discovery.

5

彼女は涙を流しながら、その手紙を読んでいた。

She was reading the letter while shedding tears.

Verb stem + 'nagara' to express simultaneous actions.

6

この手紙は速達で出さなければなりません。

This letter must be sent by special delivery.

'~nakereba narimasen' expressing obligation/necessity.

7

宛先が間違っていたため、手紙が戻ってきてしまった。

Because the address was wrong, the letter came back.

'Tame' indicating reason/cause, and '~te shimau' for an unfortunate result.

8

手紙を書くときは、相手のことを考えることが大切だ。

When writing a letter, it is important to think about the recipient.

'~toki' (when) and nominalizing with 'koto'.

1

時候の挨拶を添えて、取引先に手紙を送付した。

I sent a letter to the client, including a seasonal greeting.

Use of formal vocabulary ('soufu suru', 'torihikisaki') and te-form for sequence.

2

彼の書く手紙は、いつもユーモアに富んでいる。

The letters he writes are always rich in humor.

Modifying a noun with a relative clause ('kare no kaku tegami').

3

手紙というアナログな通信手段の良さが見直されている。

The merits of letters, an analog means of communication, are being reevaluated.

Passive voice ('minaosarete iru') and defining phrase ('~to iu').

4

どんなに遠く離れていても、手紙を通じて心を通わせることができる。

No matter how far apart we are, we can connect our hearts through letters.

'Donna ni ~te mo' (no matter how) and '~o tsuujite' (through/via).

5

差出人の名前がない手紙が届き、不審に思った。

A letter arrived without a sender's name, and I thought it was suspicious.

Relative clause modifying the subject, and te-form connecting clauses.

6

手紙の文面から、彼がかなり焦っていることが読み取れた。

From the text of the letter, I could read that he was quite panicked.

'~kara' indicating the source of information, and potential form ('yomitoreta').

7

お詫びの手紙は、なるべく早く出すべきだ。

A letter of apology should be sent as soon as possible.

'~beki da' expressing strong advice or duty.

8

彼女からの最後の手紙は、今でも私の宝物として大切に保管してある。

Her last letter is still carefully kept as my treasure.

'~te aru' indicating a state resulting from a purposeful action.

1

デジタル化が進む現代において、肉筆の手紙はかえって新鮮な感動を呼ぶ。

In today's increasingly digitalized world, a handwritten letter evokes a surprisingly fresh sense of emotion.

'~ni oite' (in/at a context) and 'kaette' (on the contrary/rather).

2

その作家の未発表の書簡が発見され、文学界に波紋を広げている。

Unpublished letters of the author were discovered, causing a stir in the literary world.

Use of the formal synonym 'shokan' and idiomatic expression 'hamon o hirogeru'.

3

手紙の行間から、彼の言葉にできない苦悩が滲み出ていた。

His inexpressible anguish oozed from between the lines of the letter.

Metaphorical use of 'gyoukan' (between the lines) and 'nijimideru' (to ooze/exude).

4

恩師への手紙をしたためるにあたり、言葉選びには細心の注意を払った。

In writing a letter to my former teacher, I paid meticulous attention to my choice of words.

Formal verb 'shitatameru' (to write) and '~ni atari' (on the occasion of).

5

手紙という媒体は、即時性がない分、深く思考を巡らせる余白を与えてくれる。

The medium of the letter, lacking immediacy, provides the margin to think deeply.

'~bun' (to the extent that) and abstract vocabulary ('sokujisei', 'yohaku').

6

時候の挨拶から始まる日本の手紙の様式美は、後世に残すべき文化だ。

The stylistic beauty of Japanese letters, beginning with seasonal greetings, is a culture that should be preserved for future generations.

Advanced vocabulary ('youshikibi', 'kousei') and '~beki' for moral obligation.

7

彼は辞表をしたためた手紙を、社長の机の上にそっと置いた。

He gently placed the letter containing his resignation on the president's desk.

Relative clause using the formal verb 'shitatameru'.

8

検閲を逃れるため、その手紙は暗号めいた表現で綴られていた。

To evade censorship, the letter was composed in cryptic expressions.

'~meita' (showing signs of / -esque) and passive voice ('tsuzurarete ita').

1

古文書として残る武将たちの手紙からは、当時の緊迫した情勢が如実に伝わってくる。

From the letters of warlords preserved as ancient documents, the tense situation of the time is vividly conveyed.

Advanced vocabulary ('komonjo', 'nyojitsu ni') and complex sentence structure.

2

書簡集を紐解けば、彼が公の顔とは裏腹に、いかに繊細な心の持ち主であったかが窺い知れる。

If one unties (reads) his collection of letters, one can perceive how delicate a heart he possessed, contrary to his public face.

Literary expressions ('himotoku', '~to wa urahara ni', 'ukaishireru').

3

情報伝達の手段が多様化を極める現代においてすら、肉筆の手紙が放つ特権的なオーラは色褪せることがない。

Even in an age where means of information transmission are extremely diversified, the privileged aura emitted by a handwritten letter never fades.

'~ni oite sura' (even in ~) and highly abstract, poetic vocabulary.

4

その手紙には、万感の思いが込められており、読む者の胸を強く打たずにはいられない。

The letter is filled with a myriad of emotions, and one cannot help but be deeply moved upon reading it.

Idiomatic phrase ('bankan no omoi') and double negative for strong affirmation ('~zu ni wa irarenai').

5

彼は筆を執り、滔々と溢れ出る情念を一枚の手紙に託した。

He took up his brush and entrusted his endlessly overflowing passions to a single letter.

Literary verbs ('fude o toru', 'takusu') and evocative adverbs ('toutou to').

6

時候の挨拶に込められた微細な季節の移ろいへの眼差しこそ、日本の書簡文化の真髄である。

The gaze toward the subtle transitions of the seasons embedded in seasonal greetings is the very essence of Japanese epistolary culture.

Philosophical/cultural analysis using terms like 'shinzui' (essence) and 'manazashi' (gaze).

7

宛名のないその手紙は、誰に読まれることもなく、歴史の闇へと葬り去られた。

That unaddressed letter, without ever being read by anyone, was buried in the darkness of history.

Poetic and dramatic phrasing ('rekishi no yami e to houmurisarareta').

8

手紙の末尾に添えられた一文が、全ての謎を解き明かす鍵となっていたのだ。

The single sentence added at the end of the letter was the key that unraveled all the mysteries.

Narrative style ('~te ita no da') and vocabulary for mystery/revelation.

تلازمات شائعة

手紙を書く
手紙を出す
手紙を送る
手紙をもらう
手紙を受け取る
手紙を読む
手紙の返事
感謝の手紙
長い手紙
手紙が届く

العبارات الشائعة

手紙を出す

手紙の返事を書く

手紙で知らせる

手紙をポストに入れる

手紙をやり取りする

心のこもった手紙

手紙を添える

手紙をしたためる

手紙を封筒に入れる

手紙に切手を貼る

يُخلط عادةً مع

手紙 vs メール (meeru) - Email. Digital vs Physical.

手紙 vs はがき (hagaki) - Postcard. Card vs Envelope with paper.

手紙 vs メッセージ (messeji) - Message. Broad term, often digital or spoken.

تعبيرات اصطلاحية

""

""

""

""

""

""

""

""

""

""

سهل الخلط

手紙 vs

手紙 vs

手紙 vs

手紙 vs

手紙 vs

أنماط الجُمل

كيفية الاستخدام

nuance

Carries a warmer, more personal nuance than メール (email) or 連絡 (contact).

honorifics

Add 'お' to make it polite: お手紙 (otegami). Used when referring to a letter from someone else, especially a superior or customer.

limitations

Cannot be used for packages (小包 - kozutsumi) or postcards (はがき - hagaki), though it is sometimes used broadly by children for any mail.

أخطاء شائعة
  • Using 手紙 for emails.
  • Saying 手紙する (tegami suru) to mean 'to write a letter'.
  • Counting letters with 枚 (mai) or 個 (ko).
  • Using 手紙 for postcards.
  • Starting a formal Japanese letter directly with the main topic.

نصائح

Particle for Recipient

Always use the particle に (ni) to indicate the person receiving the letter. For example, 友達に手紙を書く (I write a letter to my friend). Do not use へ (e) unless you are emphasizing the direction of sending, though に is much more common for the act of writing.

Sending vs Mailing

While 送る (okuru) means 'to send' generally, 出す (dasu) is the most natural verb to use when you mean 'to mail' a letter. 手紙を出す implies putting it in the postbox or handing it to the post office.

Seasonal Greetings

If you write a formal letter in Japanese, don't jump straight to the point. Start with a seasonal greeting (時候の挨拶). It shows respect and cultural fluency. For example, in spring, mention the cherry blossoms.

Counting Letters

Memorize the counter 通 (つう - tsuu) for letters. 一通 (いっつう), 二通 (につう), 三通 (さんつう). Using the wrong counter like 個 (こ) sounds very unnatural to native speakers.

No Digital Letters

Never use 手紙 for emails or text messages. The kanji literally mean 'hand paper'. If there is no paper involved, it is not a 手紙. Use メール (meeru) instead.

Using お手紙

Add 'お' (o) to make お手紙 (otegami) when referring to a letter from someone else, especially someone of higher status. Do not use お手紙 to refer to a letter you are writing yourself.

Related Post Office Words

Learn the words that go with 手紙: 封筒 (fuutou - envelope), 切手 (kitte - stamp), ポスト (posuto - postbox), and 郵便局 (yuubinkyoku - post office). You will often use them together.

Handwriting Matters

In Japan, the quality of your handwriting in a letter is noticed. Take your time to write neatly. Messy handwriting in a formal letter can be seen as disrespectful or careless.

Love Letters

A love letter is commonly called ラブレター (raburetaa) in modern Japanese. The traditional Japanese word is 恋文 (こいぶみ - koibumi), which sounds very poetic and old-fashioned.

Haikei and Keigu

When reading formal letters, look for 拝啓 (Haikei) at the start and 敬具 (Keigu) at the end. They function like 'Dear Sir/Madam' and 'Sincerely yours'. They are always used as a pair.

احفظها

وسيلة تذكّر

Imagine your HAND (手) holding a piece of PAPER (紙) to write a LETTER.

أصل الكلمة

Native Japanese (Wago)

السياق الثقافي

High-quality Japanese paper (和紙 - washi) is often used for important letters.

Good handwriting (書道 - shodo) is highly respected and adds to the value of a handwritten letter.

Japanese letters often start with a reference to the season, e.g., '桜の美しい季節となりました' (It has become the beautiful season of cherry blossoms).

تدرّب في الحياة الواقعية

سياقات واقعية

بدايات محادثة

"最近、誰かに手紙を書きましたか？ (Have you written a letter to anyone recently?)"

"メールと手紙、どちらをもらうのが好きですか？ (Which do you prefer receiving, emails or letters?)"

"外国の友達と手紙をやり取りしたことがありますか？ (Have you ever exchanged letters with a foreign friend?)"

"日本で手紙を出したことがありますか？ (Have you ever sent a letter in Japan?)"

"一番大切にしている手紙は誰からのものですか？ (Who is your most treasured letter from?)"

مواضيع للكتابة اليومية

Write a short letter in Japanese to your future self.

Describe the last time you received a handwritten letter. How did it make you feel?

Explain the difference between sending an email and sending a physical letter.

Write a thank-you letter to someone who helped you learn Japanese.

Imagine you are living 100 years ago. Write a diary entry about waiting for a letter from a loved one.

الأسئلة الشائعة

10 أسئلة

No, you cannot. 手紙 strictly refers to a physical letter written on paper. For emails, you must use メール (meeru) or Eメール (iimeeru). Using 手紙 for an email will confuse native speakers. Remember the kanji: 手 (hand) + 紙 (paper).

Letters are counted using the counter 通 (つう - tsuu). One letter is 一通 (いっつう - ittsuu), two letters is 二通 (につう - nitsuu), three letters is 三通 (さんつう - santsuu), and so on. Do not use general counters like 個 (こ) or flat object counters like 枚 (まい), although 枚 is used for the individual sheets of paper inside the letter.

手紙 (tegami) usually refers to a letter written on paper and enclosed in an envelope. はがき (hagaki) refers specifically to a postcard, which is a single thick piece of paper sent without an envelope. Both are sent through the mail, but their physical forms are different.

The word for reply is 返事 (へんじ - henji). To say 'reply to a letter', you use the phrase 手紙の返事 (tegami no henji). To 'write a reply', you say 手紙の返事を書く (tegami no henji o kaku).

Yes, you can add the honorific prefix お (o) to make it お手紙 (otegami). You should use this when referring to a letter written by someone else, especially someone you respect, like a teacher, boss, or customer. For example, '先生からのお手紙' (A letter from the teacher).

The most common verbs are 書く (kaku - to write), 出す (dasu - to send/mail), 送る (okuru - to send), もらう (morau - to receive), 受け取る (uketoru - to receive/accept), and 読む (yomu - to read). 出す is particularly common when talking about dropping a letter in the mail.

便り (tayori) means 'news', 'tidings', or 'correspondence'. It is a broader and more poetic term than 手紙. While 手紙 focuses on the physical object, 便り focuses on the information or connection. '便りがない' means 'there is no news/contact', which might include letters, calls, or emails.

Yes, while daily communication is mostly digital, handwritten letters are still highly valued in Japan. They are used for formal occasions, business apologies, expressing deep gratitude, and seasonal greetings like New Year's cards (年賀状). Handwritten letters show sincerity and effort.

時候の挨拶 (jikou no aisatsu) is a seasonal greeting used at the beginning of formal Japanese letters. It references the current season, weather, or nature. It is a traditional way to show politeness and cultural awareness before getting to the main point of the letter.

No, 手紙 is strictly a noun. You cannot say '手紙する' (tegami suru) to mean 'to send a letter'. You must use a verb with it, such as 手紙を書く (write a letter) or 手紙を出す (send a letter). However, you can use メール (email) as a verb: メールする (to email).

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/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

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