so
JLPT N39 strokesKanjiLevel 28 - JLPT N3

Quick answer

祖 is the kanji for "Pioneer / Founder / Ancestor". A common reading is そ (so). You can practice writing it on this page.

Meaning

Pioneer / Founder / Ancestor

Also : Pioneer · Founder · Ancestor

Readings

on/ so

kun = Japanese reading · on = Chinese reading

Practice writing

Trace the kanji stroke by stroke with a visual guide.

Memory Aid

Meaning ·

The kanji 祖 represents 'ANCESTOR'. Think of this shape as a picture representing the concept of ancestor.

Reading ·

On-reading: そ — remember this sound by associating it with ancestor.

Example Sentences

先祖を大切にしています。

せんぞをたいせつにしています。

I cherish my ancestors.

祖父母に会いに行きました。

そふぼにあいにいきました。

I went to see my grandparents.

Vocabulary using 祖

Learn 祖 with Spaced Repetition

InitialJ uses scientifically proven SRS to help you memorize kanji and vocabulary for the JLPT. N5 is free forever; no credit card required.