At the A1 level, the word 'karui' (軽い) is introduced as a basic descriptive adjective for physical objects. Learners at this stage focus on the most literal meaning: the opposite of 'heavy' (omoi). You will use it to describe things you can easily carry, like a 'karui kaban' (light bag) or a 'karui kutsu' (light shoes). The grammar is simple: 'Noun wa karui desu.' You will also learn the basic negative form 'karukunai' (not light). The focus is on tactile, everyday objects that you interact with. Understanding 'karui' helps you navigate shopping scenarios and basic descriptions of your belongings. You might use it to tell a friend that your luggage isn't heavy, or to ask for a lighter option in a store. It is one of the first 50 adjectives most students learn because it is so essential for basic communication. At this level, don't worry about metaphorical meanings; just focus on the physical sensation of weight. If you can pick it up with one hand easily, it's 'karui'!
At the A2 level, learners begin to expand the use of 'karui' into the realms of food and health. You will learn to use 'karui' to describe a 'light meal' (karui shokuji), which is a common phrase when you aren't very hungry or want something healthy. You will also encounter 'karui' in medical contexts, such as 'karui kaze' (a light cold) or 'karui kega' (a minor injury). This level introduces the idea that 'karui' can mean 'low in intensity.' Grammatically, you will start using 'karui' to modify nouns more frequently and perhaps use the 'te-form' (karukute) to join it with other adjectives, such as 'karukute benri' (light and convenient). You are also expected to know the past tense 'karukatta' (was light). This level is about moving from simple objects to simple situations and physical states. You'll start hearing it in weather reports for 'light rain' or in sports for 'light exercise.' It's a bridge between the purely physical and the slightly more abstract.
At the B1 level, you will start to see the more idiomatic and metaphorical uses of 'karui.' A key phrase at this level is 'kuchi ga karui,' which means someone is 'light-mouthed' or a gossip. This is a crucial social idiom. You will also learn to use the adverbial form 'karuku' (lightly) with verbs, such as 'karuku tataku' (to tap lightly) or 'karuku kangaeru' (to think lightly of something/not take it seriously). The concept of 'lightness' now extends to attitudes and actions. You might describe a conversation as 'karui' if it's casual and not serious. You will also be able to compare weights using 'yori' and 'hodo.' At B1, you are expected to understand the nuance that 'karui' can sometimes be negative when describing a person's behavior or character, implying a lack of depth or sincerity. You are moving beyond the surface and looking at how 'lightness' applies to human interaction and mental processes.
At the B2 level, 'karui' is used in more complex social and professional contexts. You will encounter the phrase 'karuku miru' (to underestimate or take lightly) in business or competitive settings. You'll also see 'karui' used in literature to describe atmosphere or tone—for example, a 'karuiタッチ' (light touch) in writing or art. At this stage, you should be comfortable with all conjugations and be able to use 'karui' to express subtle degrees of severity in legal or formal contexts, such as a 'karui tsumi' (a light/minor crime). You will also start to distinguish 'karui' from its more formal or specific synonyms like 'keikai' (brisk/nimble) or 'karoyaka' (graceful). The focus at B2 is on precision and social appropriateness. You understand that calling a boss's mistake 'karui' might be okay if you are reassuring them, but calling their speech 'karui' might be an insult. You are learning to navigate the social 'weight' of the word itself.
At the C1 level, you explore the philosophical and highly nuanced applications of 'karui.' You might encounter it in discussions about 'existential lightness' or in high-level literary analysis where it describes the 'weightlessness' of modern life. You will understand how 'karui' functions in various registers, from slang to highly formal academic Japanese. You'll be familiar with rare idioms and historical uses of the kanji 軽. At this level, you can use 'karui' to describe the 'lightness' of a specific historical period or a shift in cultural values. You are also able to use the word in complex grammatical structures, such as 'karuku ashirau' (to brush someone off/treat someone with cool indifference). Your understanding of 'karui' is no longer just about weight or intensity; it's about the entire spectrum of human experience that can be characterized as 'light,' including the positive freedom of lightness and the negative void of superficiality.
At the C2 level, your mastery of 'karui' is indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker. You can use it in creative writing to evoke specific moods, or in professional debates to categorize the gravity of complex issues with absolute precision. You understand the deep etymological roots of the character 軽 and how it relates to concepts of movement and vehicles in ancient China. You can effortlessly switch between the literal, metaphorical, idiomatic, and slang uses of the word. You might use 'karui' in a pun or a sophisticated joke that relies on its multiple meanings. At this level, 'karui' is a tool you use to paint detailed pictures of character, atmosphere, and logic. You can explain the subtle difference between 'karui' and dozens of other related words in a way that captures the essence of the Japanese worldview. Lightness is no longer a simple concept; it is a multi-dimensional lens through which you can view and describe the world.

軽い 30 सेकंड में

  • Karui primarily means 'light' in terms of physical weight, being the opposite of 'omoi' (heavy).
  • It also describes things with low intensity, such as a light cold, minor injury, or light rain.
  • In social contexts, it can mean a person is casual, talkative, or sometimes unreliable/superficial.
  • Grammatically, it's an i-adjective that conjugates to 'karukunai' (negative) and 'karukatta' (past).
The Japanese adjective 軽い (karui) is a foundational vocabulary word that primarily translates to "light" in terms of physical weight. However, its utility in the Japanese language extends far beyond the simple measurement of mass. At its core, 軽い represents a lack of burden, whether that burden is physical, emotional, or metaphorical. In everyday conversation, you will hear it used to describe objects that are easy to lift, like a feather or a small bag. But as you progress in your Japanese studies, you will encounter its more nuanced applications. For example, it can describe a meal that is easy on the stomach, a person's nimble movements, or even a person's personality trait—sometimes suggesting they are easy-going, and other times suggesting they are frivolous or talkative (having a 'light mouth').
Physical Weight
Used to describe objects that lack weight. This is the most common and literal usage of the word. If you pick up a box and it weighs less than expected, you would say 'Karui!'

このカバンはとても軽いので、持ち運びが楽です。 (This bag is very light, so it is easy to carry.)

Beyond physical objects, 'karui' is used to describe the intensity of things. A 'light' cold (karui kaze) means the symptoms are not severe. A 'light' punishment means the consequences are minimal. This versatility makes it an essential word for expressing the degree of various phenomena. In culinary contexts, 'karui' describes food that isn't greasy or heavy, like a salad or a clear soup.
Intensity and Severity
Refers to the degree of an illness, a crime, or a workload. It suggests that the situation is manageable and not grave.

風邪は軽いので、心配しないでください。 (The cold is light, so please don't worry.)

In social contexts, describing someone as 'karui' can be a double-edged sword. It might mean they are cheerful and light-hearted, or it might imply they are unreliable or 'cheap' in their behavior. Understanding the context is key to interpreting this word correctly. For instance, 'kuchi ga karui' (having a light mouth) is a common idiom meaning someone cannot keep a secret. This highlights how the concept of 'weight' is used metaphorically in Japanese to describe the gravity of one's words or character.
Movement and Feel
Describes things that move easily or feel effortless. A 'light' touch or 'light' footsteps use this word to convey agility and lack of force.

彼は足取りが軽いですね。 (He has a light step, doesn't he?)

Finally, 'karui' is frequently used in business to describe a 'light' workload or a 'light' meeting. It implies that the task at hand won't require significant time or energy. By mastering this word, you gain a tool to describe everything from the weight of your luggage to the seriousness of a conversation, making it a truly versatile piece of the Japanese language.
Using 軽い (karui) correctly involves understanding its conjugation as an 'i-adjective' and the various contexts it inhabits. As an i-adjective, it follows standard Japanese grammatical rules. To say something 'is light,' you simply place 'karui' after the noun or at the end of the sentence. For example, 'Kono pen wa karui' (This pen is light). To modify a noun directly, it stays in its dictionary form: 'karui kaban' (a light bag).
Conjugation Basics
To make it negative, change the final 'i' to 'kunai' (karukunai - not light). For the past tense, change 'i' to 'katta' (karukatta - was light). For the past negative, it becomes 'karukunakatta' (was not light).

昨日の荷物は軽かったです。 (Yesterday's luggage was light.)

When you want to use 'karui' to describe how an action is performed, you transform it into an adverb by changing the final 'i' to 'ku'. For instance, 'karuku tataku' means 'to tap lightly.' This is extremely common when giving instructions or describing physical sensations. In sports, a coach might tell you to 'karuku hashiru' (run lightly/jog) as a warm-up. In the kitchen, a recipe might instruct you to 'karuku shio o furu' (lightly sprinkle salt).
Adverbial Form (〜く)
The form 'karuku' is used with verbs to indicate the degree or manner of an action. It is essential for describing subtlety.

ドアを軽くノックしました。 (I knocked lightly on the door.)

Another important usage is the phrase 'karuku miru,' which literally means 'to look lightly' but figuratively means 'to underestimate' or 'to take lightly.' This shows how 'karui' transitions into psychological and social realms. If you say 'Kare wa shigoto o karuku mite iru,' you are saying he doesn't take his work seriously. This idiomatic use is vital for N3 and N2 level learners who are moving beyond basic descriptions.
Comparison and Contrast
'Karui' is the direct antonym of 'Omoi' (heavy). In comparisons, you use 'yori' (than). 'A wa B yori karui' (A is lighter than B).

このスマホは前のモデルより軽いです。 (This smartphone is lighter than the previous model.)

In summary, 'karui' is a highly flexible adjective. Whether you are describing the weight of a feather, the severity of a headache, the flavor of a soup, or the seriousness of a mistake, 'karui' provides the linguistic framework to express 'lightness' in all its forms. Practice the 'i', 'kunai', 'katta', and 'ku' forms to become fluent in its use across different sentence structures.
If you live or travel in Japan, you will hear 'karui' multiple times a day in various settings. One of the most common places is in retail, specifically when shopping for clothing, bags, or electronics. Sales assistants will often emphasize the 'karu-sa' (lightness) of a product as a key selling point. In a country where many people commute long distances by train and walk a lot, having a 'karui' bag or 'karui' shoes is highly valued. You might hear a clerk say, 'Kore, totemo karui desu yo!' (This is very light!) while handing you a jacket to try on.
Shopping and Retail
Often used to highlight the portability and comfort of products. It's a positive attribute in almost all consumer goods.

このパソコンは軽いので、出張に便利です。 (This laptop is light, so it's convenient for business trips.)

Another frequent context is dining. Japan has a rich culture of 'keishoku' (light meals). When you are not very hungry, you might tell a friend, 'Karui mono ga tabetai' (I want to eat something light). This usually refers to something like udon, a sandwich, or a salad, rather than a heavy meal like tonkatsu or ramen. In restaurants, servers might describe a wine or a beer as having a 'karui kuchi-atari' (a light mouthfeel/finish). This refers to the lack of a heavy aftertaste or high alcohol content.
Dining and Food
Refers to the portion size, the lack of oiliness, or the subtle flavor profile of food and drinks.

お昼は軽いサンドイッチにしましょう。 (Let's have a light sandwich for lunch.)

In the medical and health world, 'karui' is used to reassure patients. If you go to a clinic with a sprained ankle, the doctor might say, 'Karui nenza desu' (It's a light/minor sprain). This use of 'karui' to mean 'minor' or 'not serious' is incredibly common. It provides a sense of relief. Similarly, 'karui undou' (light exercise) is a standard recommendation for maintaining health. You'll see this phrase in health magazines and on television programs advising the elderly to stay active without overexerting themselves.
Workplace and Productivity
Used to describe tasks that are quick and easy. 'Karui uchiawase' (a light/brief meeting) is a common way to suggest a quick sync-up.

今日は仕事が軽いので、早く帰れそうです。 (Work is light today, so it looks like I can go home early.)

Lastly, in the world of weather and environment, 'karui' can describe a 'light' breeze or 'light' snow. When the elements are not harsh, 'karui' is the go-to adjective. Whether you are listening to a weather report or chatting with a neighbor about the morning air, 'karui' helps set the scale of the physical world around you. By paying attention to these contexts, you'll start to see how 'karui' is a thread that runs through many aspects of daily Japanese life.
While 'karui' is a basic word, English speakers often make specific mistakes due to the way 'light' is used in English. The most frequent error is using 'karui' to describe light in the sense of brightness or color. In English, we say 'light blue' or 'the room is light.' In Japanese, you must use 'usu-i' (thin/pale) for colors and 'akaru-i' (bright) for illumination. Saying 'karui ao' for light blue is a classic beginner mistake; the correct term is 'mizuiro' or 'usui ao.' Similarly, 'karui heya' would mean a room that somehow lacks physical weight, not a sunlit room.
Light vs. Bright
Mistake: Using 'karui' for colors or brightness. Correction: Use 'usui' (pale) for colors and 'akarui' (bright) for light levels.

❌ この部屋は軽いですね。 (This room is physically weightless.)
✅ この部屋は明るいですね。 (This room is bright.)

Another common pitfall is the confusion between 'karui' and 'kantan' (easy). While a 'light' task in English can mean an 'easy' task, in Japanese, 'karui' usually refers to the volume or burden of work, while 'kantan' refers to the lack of complexity. If a math problem is easy to solve, use 'kantan.' If a job is 'light' because there isn't much to do, 'karui' is appropriate. Using them interchangeably can lead to confusion about whether you mean a task is simple to understand or just small in scale.
Light vs. Easy
Mistake: Using 'karui' for 'easy to understand'. Correction: Use 'kantan' or 'yasashii' for simplicity.

❌ このテストは軽いです。 (This test lacks physical weight.)
✅ このテストは簡単です。 (This test is easy.)

A more subtle mistake involves the social usage of 'karui.' As mentioned before, describing a person as 'karui' can be quite negative. If you mean to say someone is 'light-hearted' in a positive way, 'akarui' (bright/cheerful) or 'karoyaka' (graceful/light) might be better choices. Calling a colleague 'karui' might imply they are flippant or don't take their responsibilities seriously. This nuance is often missed by learners who translate 'light' directly from English. In English, 'he's a light person' doesn't make much sense, but 'he has a light personality' sounds positive. In Japanese, 'karui hito' is almost always a critique of character.
The 'Light Mouth' Trap
Mistake: Thinking 'kuchi ga karui' is a compliment for someone who speaks well. Correction: It strictly means they are a gossip who can't keep secrets.

彼は口が軽いから、秘密を話さないほうがいい。 (He has a light mouth, so you shouldn't tell him secrets.)

Lastly, avoid using 'karui' when describing the weather if you mean 'clear.' For clear skies, use 'hare.' 'Karui' can describe light rain ('koburi') or light wind, but it doesn't describe the clarity of the sky. By being mindful of these distinctions—Weight vs. Color, Scale vs. Difficulty, and Social Frivolity vs. Cheerfulness—you will avoid the most common errors and speak more natural Japanese.
In Japanese, there are several words that overlap with 'karui' but carry different connotations. Understanding these alternatives will help you choose the most precise word for your situation. One of the most common alternatives is 'karoyaka' (軽やか). While 'karui' is a simple description of weight, 'karoyaka' is more aesthetic and positive. it describes movements that are light, airy, and graceful. You would use 'karoyaka' to describe a dancer's steps or a beautiful melody. It suggests a sense of freedom and elegance that 'karui' lacks.
Karui vs. Karoyaka
'Karui' is functional and factual (weight). 'Karoyaka' is descriptive and aesthetic (graceful lightness).

彼女は軽やかなステップで踊った。 (She danced with light, graceful steps.)

Another related word is 'keikai' (軽快). This word is often used in the context of rhythm or speed. A 'keikai' rhythm is upbeat and brisk. A 'keikai' person moves quickly and efficiently. It carries a sense of energy and health. While 'karui' might describe the weight of your running shoes, 'keikai' describes the way you run in them. It's a very common word in sports and music reviews.
Karui vs. Keikai
'Karui' is about mass. 'Keikai' is about rhythm, speed, and efficiency.

その曲は軽快なリズムで始まった。 (The song started with a brisk, upbeat rhythm.)

For food, 'ussari' (あっさり) is a powerful alternative to 'karui.' While you can say 'karui shokuji' (a light meal), 'assari' specifically describes flavors that are simple, clean, and not oily. If you prefer a light broth over a heavy tonkotsu broth, you would say you like 'assari' flavors. It is a very positive word in Japanese cuisine, implying purity and freshness.
Karui vs. Assari
'Karui' is the general term for light. 'Assari' is specifically for light/simple flavors in food.

日本料理はあっさりしていて体にいい。 (Japanese food is light/simple and good for the body.)

Finally, consider 'yashashii' (易しい) or 'kantan' (簡単) when you mean 'light' in the sense of 'easy.' As discussed in the common mistakes section, 'karui' is rarely used for mental difficulty. Using 'yasashii' for an easy book or 'kantan' for an easy task will make your Japanese sound much more natural. By distinguishing between these terms—karoyaka for grace, keikai for rhythm, assari for flavor, and kantan for simplicity—you'll be able to express the concept of 'lightness' with the precision of a native speaker.

How Formal Is It?

रोचक तथ्य

The kanji for 'heavy' (重) originally depicted a person carrying a large bag on their back, while 'light' (軽) focused on the efficiency of a vehicle.

उच्चारण मार्गदर्शिका

UK ka.ɾɯ.i
US kɑ.ɹu.i
The pitch accent is typically 'Heiban' (flat) or 'Atamadaka' depending on dialect, but usually level in standard Japanese.
तुकबंदी
Marui (round) Warui (bad) Akarui (bright) Nurui (lukewarm) Furui (old) Surui (sly) Yurui (loose) Kurai (dark)
आम गलतियाँ
  • Pronouncing the 'r' as an English 'r' with the tongue curled back.
  • Stretching the 'i' into a long 'ee' sound too much.
  • Confusing the pitch with 'karu' (to mow/shear).
  • Merging 'ka' and 'ru' into a single syllable.
  • Mispronouncing it as 'karai' (spicy).

कठिनाई स्तर

पठन 2/5

The kanji is common but has many strokes. Recognizable at A2.

लिखना 3/5

Writing the kanji 軽 requires attention to the 車 radical.

बोलना 1/5

Very easy to pronounce and use in basic sentences.

श्रवण 2/5

Can be confused with 'karai' (spicy) or 'kurai' (dark) if listening quickly.

आगे क्या सीखें

पूर्वापेक्षाएँ

重い (Heavy) 荷物 (Luggage) カバン (Bag) 食べる (To eat) 風邪 (Cold)

आगे सीखें

あっさり (Simple flavor) 軽やか (Graceful) 簡単 (Easy) 明るい (Bright) 薄い (Thin/Pale)

उन्नत

軽蔑 (Contempt) 軽率 (Rash) 軽微 (Slight) 軽妙 (Witty) 軽快 (Brisk)

ज़रूरी व्याकरण

i-adjective conjugation

軽い -> 軽くない -> 軽かった -> 軽ければ

Adverbial form (~ku)

軽く叩く (Hit lightly)

Te-form for connection

軽くて丈夫 (Light and durable)

Noun modification

軽いカバン (A light bag)

Comparison with 'yori'

これはそれより軽い (This is lighter than that)

स्तर के अनुसार उदाहरण

1

このかばんは軽いです。

This bag is light.

Basic 'Noun wa Adjective desu' structure.

2

その靴は軽いですか?

Are those shoes light?

Question form with 'ka'.

3

このペンは軽くないです。

This pen is not light.

Negative form 'kunai'.

4

軽い荷物を持ってください。

Please hold the light luggage.

Adjective modifying a noun directly.

5

リンゴは軽いです。

The apple is light.

Simple identification.

6

これは軽くていいですね。

This is light and nice, isn't it?

Te-form 'karukute' used for connection.

7

もっと軽い財布がほしいです。

I want a lighter wallet.

Comparative 'motto' (more).

8

箱の中は軽かったです。

The inside of the box was light.

Past tense 'karukatta'.

1

お昼は軽い食事にしましょう。

Let's have a light meal for lunch.

Using 'karui' for food volume.

2

風邪は軽いので、大丈夫です。

The cold is light, so it's okay.

Using 'karui' for illness severity.

3

軽い運動を毎日します。

I do light exercise every day.

Describing intensity of activity.

4

昨日は軽い雨が降りました。

It rained lightly yesterday.

Describing weather intensity.

5

この仕事は軽いからすぐ終わります。

This job is light, so it will end soon.

Using 'karui' for workload.

6

軽い怪我で済みました。

It ended with only a light injury.

Describing medical outcome.

7

もっと軽い素材の服が着たいです。

I want to wear clothes made of a lighter material.

Describing material weight.

8

このカメラは軽くて使いやすいです。

This camera is light and easy to use.

Te-form connecting two positive traits.

1

彼は口が軽いので、気をつけてください。

He is talkative (can't keep secrets), so please be careful.

Idiom 'kuchi ga karui'.

2

ドアを軽くノックしました。

I knocked lightly on the door.

Adverbial form 'karuku'.

3

仕事を軽く考えてはいけません。

You must not think lightly of your work.

Adverbial 'karuku' with 'kangaeru' (to think).

4

軽い気持ちで始めた趣味が、本気になった。

The hobby I started with a light heart became serious.

Using 'karui' for emotional state/intent.

5

彼は足取りが軽く、元気そうだ。

He has a light step and seems energetic.

Describing movement.

6

先生は私のミスを軽く注意した。

The teacher gave me a light warning for my mistake.

Adverbial use for social interaction.

7

このワインは口当たりが軽いですね。

This wine has a light mouthfeel.

Culinary description of texture/intensity.

8

冗談を言って、場の空気を軽くした。

I told a joke and lightened the mood of the place.

Metaphorical use for atmosphere.

1

相手のチームを軽く見ると負けますよ。

If you look lightly at (underestimate) the opposing team, you will lose.

Phrase 'karuku miru' meaning underestimate.

2

彼は責任感が軽く、信頼できない。

He has a light sense of responsibility and cannot be trusted.

Describing character flaws.

3

軽い罪でも、犯罪は犯罪です。

Even a light crime is still a crime.

Legal/formal context.

4

軽快な音楽が店内に流れている。

Brisk, light music is playing in the store.

Using 'keikai' (related word) for rhythm.

5

彼女は彼の誘いを軽くあしらった。

She brushed off his invitation lightly/indifferently.

Phrase 'karuku ashirau'.

6

この小説は軽いタッチで描かれている。

This novel is written with a light touch.

Literary/artistic description.

7

彼はフットワークが軽く、どこへでも行く。

He has light footwork (is agile/proactive) and goes anywhere.

Idiom for being active/proactive.

8

その問題は、軽く扱えるものではない。

That problem is not something that can be handled lightly.

Describing importance.

1

現代社会の「軽さ」について議論した。

We discussed the 'lightness' (superficiality) of modern society.

Noun form 'karusa' used philosophically.

2

彼は老いを感じさせない軽やかな身のこなしだ。

He has a light/graceful movement that doesn't show his age.

Using 'karoyaka' for high-level description.

3

その発言は、彼の政治家としての命取りになるほど軽かった。

That remark was so light (frivolous) it could be fatal for his career as a politician.

Metaphorical weight of words.

4

軽薄な態度をとるのは慎みなさい。

Refrain from taking a frivolous/light-headed attitude.

Using the compound 'keihaku' (light and thin).

5

伝統の重みと、現代の軽快さが共存している。

The weight of tradition and the lightness of modernity coexist.

Abstract contrast.

6

彼は自分の過去を軽く受け流した。

He lightly parried/dismissed his own past.

Complex psychological action.

7

筆致が軽く、非常に読みやすいエッセイだ。

The brushstrokes (writing style) are light, making it a very readable essay.

Describing artistic style.

8

その判決は、世論に反して驚くほど軽かった。

The verdict was surprisingly light, contrary to public opinion.

Formal justice context.

1

存在の耐えられない軽さを、ふと感じることがある。

I sometimes suddenly feel the unbearable lightness of being.

Philosophical reference.

2

彼の文体は、軽妙洒脱という言葉がふさわしい。

His writing style is best described as light, witty, and unconventional.

Advanced four-character idiom context.

3

権力という重責を、彼は驚くほど軽く背負っているように見えた。

He seemed to carry the heavy responsibility of power surprisingly lightly.

Paradoxical use of weight.

4

歴史の審判を軽く見る者は、必ず同じ過ちを繰り返す。

Those who take the judgment of history lightly will surely repeat the same mistakes.

High-level moral assertion.

5

言葉の重みを知る者は、決して軽々しい発言はしない。

Those who know the weight of words never make light/frivolous remarks.

Reduplicated form 'karugarushii'.

6

その音楽は、重力から解放されたかのような軽やかさに満ちていた。

The music was filled with a lightness as if it had been liberated from gravity.

Poetic/abstract description.

7

都市の喧騒を離れ、心が軽くなるのを感じた。

Leaving the bustle of the city, I felt my heart become light.

Emotional transformation.

8

彼は軽挙妄動を慎み、機が熟すのを待った。

He refrained from rash/thoughtless actions and waited for the right moment.

Using the 'kei' kanji in a complex idiom.

सामान्य शब्द संयोजन

口が軽い
フットワークが軽い
軽い食事
軽い運動
軽い風邪
軽い気持ちで
腰が軽い
軽い罪
尻が軽い
軽いノック

सामान्य वाक्यांश

体が軽い

— To feel physically fit, energetic, or relieved of a burden.

今日は体が軽い。

足取りが軽い

— To walk with a light, happy, or brisk step.

足取りが軽く家路につく。

軽い挨拶

— A brief or casual greeting.

軽い挨拶を交わす。

軽いジョーク

— A light-hearted or non-offensive joke.

軽いジョークで場を和ませる。

軽い罰

— A minor or lenient punishment.

軽い罰で済んだ。

軽いタッチ

— A light touch or style in art, writing, or physical contact.

軽いタッチで描く。

軽い症状

— Minor symptoms of an illness.

症状は軽いです。

軽い素材

— Lightweight material or fabric.

軽い素材のコート。

軽い打ち合わせ

— A short, informal meeting or briefing.

軽い打ち合わせをしましょう。

軽い気持ち

— A casual or non-serious intention.

軽い気持ちで言っただけだ。

अक्सर इससे भ्रम होता है

軽い vs 明るい (akarui)

Means bright/light in terms of illumination. Never use 'karui' for a bright room.

軽い vs 易しい (yasashii)

Means easy/simple. 'Karui' is rarely used for mental ease.

軽い vs 薄い (usui)

Means thin or pale. Use this for light colors like light blue.

मुहावरे और अभिव्यक्तियाँ

"口が軽い"

— Unable to keep a secret; talkative.

口が軽い人には相談しないほうがいい。

Informal
"腰が軽い"

— Quick to act; proactive; nimble.

彼は腰が軽く、すぐに手伝ってくれる。

Neutral
"尻が軽い"

— Frivolous; promiscuous (usually derogatory).

彼女は尻が軽いと噂されている。

Slang/Offensive
"フットワークが軽い"

— Being agile, adaptable, and quick to take action.

若いうちはフットワークが軽いほうがいい。

Neutral
"軽く見る"

— To underestimate; to not take something seriously.

ライバルを軽く見てはいけない。

Neutral
"軽くあしらう"

— To treat someone with indifference; to brush someone off.

彼は彼女の文句を軽くあしらった。

Neutral
"手が軽い"

— To be skillful with one's hands (less common now).

彼は手が軽い職人だ。

Archaic
"口を軽くする"

— To start talking about something one shouldn't.

お酒を飲むと口が軽くなる。

Neutral
"身が軽い"

— To be agile; to have no family or responsibilities holding one back.

独身は身が軽くていい。

Neutral
"筆が軽い"

— To write easily or fluently (sometimes implies superficiality).

彼は筆が軽い作家だ。

Literary

आसानी से भ्रमित होने वाले

軽い vs 辛い (karai)

Sounds similar.

Karai means spicy; Karui means light. One 'a' vs one 'u' change the whole meaning.

このカレーは辛い (This curry is spicy) vs このカバンは軽い (This bag is light).

軽い vs 暗い (kurai)

Sounds similar.

Kurai means dark; Karui means light weight. They are opposites in some sense (light vs dark), but 'karui' is weight.

部屋が暗い (The room is dark).

軽い vs 温い (nurui)

Ends in -rui.

Nurui means lukewarm. It refers to temperature, not weight.

スープが温い (The soup is lukewarm).

軽い vs 緩い (yurui)

Ends in -rui.

Yurui means loose (like a rope or rules).

規則が緩い (The rules are loose).

軽い vs 古い (furui)

Ends in -rui.

Furui means old. It refers to age, not weight.

古い時計 (An old clock).

वाक्य संरचनाएँ

A1

[Noun] は 軽い です。

このペンは軽いです。

A2

軽い [Noun] を [Verb]。

軽い食事を摂ります。

B1

[Noun] は 口 が 軽い。

田中さんは口が軽い。

B1

軽く [Verb]。

軽く運動しましょう。

B2

[Noun] を 軽く 見る。

宿題を軽く見てはいけない。

C1

[Noun] を 軽く あしらう。

質問を軽くあしらった。

A2

[Noun] は [Noun] より 軽い。

羽は石より軽い。

B1

軽くて [Adjective]。

軽くて便利です。

शब्द परिवार

संज्ञा

軽さ (karusa) Lightness (the degree of being light).
軽量 (keiryou) Lightweight (technical/formal term).

क्रिया

軽んじる (karonjiru) To look down on; to neglect; to make light of.
軽める (karumeru) To lighten (rare, usually 'karuku suru').

विशेषण

軽々しい (karugarushii) Thoughtless; rash; frivolous.
手軽な (tegaru na) Easy; simple; handy.

संबंधित

軽自動車 (keijidousha - mini car)
軽食 (keishoku - light meal)
軽蔑 (keibetsu - contempt)
軽率 (keisotsu - rashness)
軽快 (keikai - nimble)

इसे कैसे इस्तेमाल करें

frequency

Extremely high in daily life.

सामान्य गलतियाँ
  • Using 'karui' for 'light blue'. usui ao / mizuiro

    Karui is for weight; usui is for color intensity.

  • Using 'karui' for an 'easy' test. kantan na tesuto

    Karui refers to physical weight, not mental difficulty.

  • Calling a cheerful person 'karui hito'. akarui hito

    Karui hito implies they are frivolous or untrustworthy.

  • Saying 'karui heya' for a bright room. akarui heya

    Karui heya would mean the room has no weight.

  • Using 'karui' for 'light' flavor exclusively. assari shita aji

    While 'karui' works, 'assari' is more natural and positive for food.

सुझाव

Adverbial transformation

Remember to change 'i' to 'ku' when using 'karui' with a verb, like 'karuku miru'.

Social Caution

Calling a person 'karui' is a strong statement about their character; use it wisely.

Food context

Use 'karui' for the meal size and 'assari' for the flavor profile.

Medical usage

Doctors use 'karui' to reassure you that a condition is minor.

Weight vs. Light

Always think: Is this about kilograms? If yes, use 'karui'. If it's about photons, use 'akarui'.

The Kar-ui sky

Visualize a light car floating into the sky to remember 'kar-ui'.

Kanji Radical

The left part of 軽 is 'car' (車). Think of a light car moving fast.

Exclamations

Practice the short 'Karu!' for when you are surprised by an object's weight.

Pitch Awareness

Pay attention to the flat pitch in standard Tokyo Japanese.

Antonym pairing

Always learn 'karui' and 'omoi' together to strengthen the association.

याद करें

स्मृति सहायक

Imagine a **K**ar (Car) that is so **light** it can fly into the **UI** (sky). Kar-ui!

दृश्य संबंध

Visualize a giant feather resting on a scale, and the scale barely moves. Write the word 'Karui' on the feather.

Word Web

Weight Small Meal Minor Cold Talkative Agile Easy Insignificant Fast

चैलेंज

Try to find 5 things in your room that are 'karui' and 5 things that are 'omoi'. Say them out loud: 'Kore wa karui desu!'

शब्द की उत्पत्ति

The kanji 軽 consists of the radical 車 (car/wagon) and the phonetic element 圣. In ancient times, it referred to a light, fast chariot.

मूल अर्थ: A small, light carriage that moves quickly.

Sino-Japanese (Kango/Kanji roots).

सांस्कृतिक संदर्भ

Be extremely careful using 'karui' to describe a person, as it can imply they are 'easy' or 'superficial'.

English speakers often confuse 'light' (weight) with 'light' (brightness). This distinction is critical in Japanese.

The Unbearable Lightness of Being (Japanese title: 存在の耐えられない軽さ) Kei-jidosha (The ubiquitous 'light' cars in Japan) Keion! (K-On! - Light Music Club anime)

असल ज़िंदगी में अभ्यास करें

वास्तविक संदर्भ

Shopping

  • 一番軽いのをください。
  • これは軽くていいですね。
  • 軽い素材ですか?
  • 持ち運びが軽い。

Restaurant

  • 軽い食事はありますか?
  • 口当たりが軽いワイン。
  • お腹に軽いもの。
  • 味付けが軽い。

Hospital

  • 症状は軽いです。
  • 軽い風邪ですね。
  • 軽い怪我でよかった。
  • 痛みは軽いですか?

Gym

  • 軽い運動から始めましょう。
  • このウェイトは軽い。
  • 足取りを軽くする。
  • 準備運動は軽く。

Office

  • 軽い打ち合わせをしましょう。
  • 今日の仕事は軽い。
  • 責任が軽い。
  • 軽く考えていた。

बातचीत की शुरुआत

"「最近、何か軽い運動をしていますか?」 (Are you doing any light exercise lately?)"

"「この新しいスマホ、すごく軽くないですか?」 (Isn't this new smartphone incredibly light?)"

"「お昼は何か軽いものにしませんか?」 (Why don't we have something light for lunch?)"

"「出張にはどのくらい軽いパソコンが理想ですか?」 (How light of a laptop is ideal for business trips?)"

"「昨日の台風、被害が軽くてよかったですね。」 (It's good that the damage from yesterday's typhoon was light, isn't it?)"

डायरी विषय

「今日、心が軽くなった出来事について書いてください。」 (Write about something that made your heart feel lighter today.)

「あなたが持っている物の中で、一番軽くて便利な物は何ですか?」 (What is the lightest and most convenient thing you own?)

「『口が軽い人』についてどう思いますか?」 (What do you think about people who are 'light-mouthed'?)

「最近、軽い風邪をひいた時のことを思い出して書いてください。」 (Recall and write about a time you had a light cold recently.)

「人生を『軽く』生きるべきか、『重く』生きるべきか、あなたの意見を書いてください。」 (Write your opinion on whether one should live life 'lightly' or 'heavily'.)

अक्सर पूछे जाने वाले सवाल

10 सवाल

No, you should use 'usui' (thin/pale) for colors. For example, 'usui ao' is light blue.

Usually not. It often implies the person is frivolous or can't keep secrets. Use 'akarui' for a positive 'light' personality.

'Karui' refers to weight or volume of work, while 'kantan' refers to something being simple to understand.

You can say 'karui ame' or more commonly 'koburi no ame'.

No, use 'akarui' for a bright room.

It means someone is a gossip and cannot keep secrets.

Metaphorically, it can imply something lacks value or depth, similar to 'cheap' behavior.

The opposite is 'omoi' (heavy).

It becomes 'karukatta' (was light).

Actually, for light sleep, Japanese people usually say 'nemuri ga asai' (shallow sleep).

खुद को परखो 200 सवाल

writing

Write 'This bag is light' in Japanese.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Write 'I have a light cold' in Japanese.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Write 'He is talkative (can't keep secrets)' using 'karui'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Write 'Please knock lightly' in Japanese.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Write 'Let's have a light meal' in Japanese.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Write 'The luggage was light' in Japanese.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Write 'Don't underestimate the problem' using 'karuku'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Write 'Light and convenient' in Japanese.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Write 'Light exercise is good for the body' in Japanese.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Write 'The shoes were not light' in Japanese.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Write 'I want a lighter laptop' in Japanese.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Write 'The meeting was light (brief)' in Japanese.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Write 'He has a light step' in Japanese.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Write 'It was a light injury' in Japanese.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Write 'The flavor is light' in Japanese.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Write 'I brushed off the question lightly' in Japanese.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Write 'A light joke' in Japanese.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Write 'Light material' in Japanese.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Write 'The punishment was light' in Japanese.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Write 'She is proactive' using 'karui'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Say 'This is light' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Say 'It's a light cold' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Say 'He is talkative (gossip)' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Say 'Let's eat something light' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Say 'It was light' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Say 'Please knock lightly' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Say 'I do light exercise' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Say 'Don't take it lightly' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Say 'Is it light?' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Say 'It's not light' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Say 'Light and easy to use' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Say 'A light joke' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Say 'The symptoms are light' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Say 'A light meal' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Say 'Lighter than this' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Say 'He has a light step' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Say 'It was a light injury' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Say 'Light material' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Say 'She is proactive' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Say 'It was not light' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
listening

Listen and identify the adjective: 'Kono kaban wa karui desu ne.'

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
listening

Listen and identify the phrase: 'Kare wa kuchi ga karui.'

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
listening

Listen and identify the tense: 'Nimotsu wa karukatta desu.'

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
listening

Listen and identify the meaning: 'Karui undou o shite kudasai.'

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
listening

Listen and identify the negative: 'Kore wa karukunai desu.'

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
listening

Listen and identify the adverb: 'Karuku tatakimashita.'

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
listening

Listen and identify the noun: 'Karui shokuji o torimashou.'

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
listening

Listen and identify the context: 'Shoujou wa karui desu yo.'

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
listening

Listen and identify the comparison: 'Kore wa are yori karui.'

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
listening

Listen and identify the te-form: 'Karukute benri desu.'

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
listening

Listen and identify the idiom: 'Kare wa footwork ga karui.'

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
listening

Listen and identify the intensity: 'Karui ame ga futte iru.'

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
listening

Listen and identify the object: 'Karui sozai no fuku.'

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
listening

Listen and identify the warning: 'Karuku kangaenaide.'

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
listening

Listen and identify the greeting: 'Karui aisatsu o shita.'

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

संबंधित सामग्री

क्या यह मददगार था?
अभी तक कोई टिप्पणी नहीं। अपने विचार साझा करने वाले पहले व्यक्ति बनें!