1.
difficult to read; hard to decipher
Describes text, kanji, or names that are difficult to read correctly. Most commonly used in the compound 難読漢字 (hard-to-read kanji) referring to kanji with unusual or rare readings.
これは難読漢字だ。
This is a hard-to-read kanji.
日本には難読地名がたくさんある。
There are many hard-to-read place names in Japan.
難読名字の持ち主は、いつも名前の読み方を説明しなければならない。
People with hard-to-read surnames always have to explain how to read their names.
COMMON COMPOUNDS:
- 難読漢字 (hard-to-read kanji)
- 難読地名 (hard-to-read place names)
- 難読名字 (hard-to-read surnames)
- 難読語 (hard-to-read words)
CULTURAL NOTE:
Kanji quizzes featuring 難読漢字 are a popular form of entertainment in Japan, appearing in TV quiz shows, books, and online content. Common examples include 薔薇 (rose), 蝸牛 (snail), and 海豚 (dolphin).
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 読みにくい: Hard to read — more general, can refer to handwriting, small print, or poor formatting, not just kanji difficulty.