1.
on'yomi, Chinese reading of kanji
The reading of a kanji character derived from the original Chinese pronunciation. Contrasts with kun'yomi (native Japanese reading).
「山」の音読みは「サン」だ。
The on'yomi of "山" is "san."
熟語は音読みで読むことが多い。
Compound words are often read with on'yomi.
ひとつの漢字に複数の音読みがあることもある。
A single kanji can have multiple on'yomi readings.
音読み literally means "sound reading," referring to readings based on Chinese pronunciation.
RELATED TERMS:
- 音読み: on'yomi (Chinese-derived reading)
- 訓読み: kun'yomi (native Japanese reading)
- 熟語: compound word (usually read with on'yomi)
USAGE NOTE:
On'yomi are typically used in multi-kanji compound words (熟語), while kun'yomi are used when kanji appear alone or with okurigana.