借
Mnemonic
Butler Alfred, once upon a time, needed to borrow silver polish from a neighbor before a grand dinner. Alfred rushed over, got the polish, and made every piece shine. He returned it promptly—a butler always returns what he borrows.
Additional thoughts
Picture Alfred in his formal attire, urgently knocking on a neighbor's door asking for silver polish. The fairy-tale opening (once upon a time) gives it a storybook quality, making the scene stick in memory.Quick recall
Butler Alfred, once upon a time, had to borrow silver polish for a grand dinner.Details
The keyword for 借 is borrow. This kanji refers to the act of receiving something from someone with the intention of returning it later. It covers both borrowing physical objects, such as books or money, and more abstract uses like borrowing someone's help or strength. The concept inherently implies a temporary arrangement and an obligation to return what was taken.
- On'yomi
- しゃく
- Kun'yomi
- か.りる