KanjiJLPT N2
Aim At

aim at, sight, shadow, stalk

Mnemonic

A beast hides beneath the stairs, golden eyes fixed upward. Through gaps between the steps, it can aim at anyone walking above. The stairs become a predator's blind — each slat a perfect window to aim at unsuspecting feet.
Additional thoughts
Picture a tiger crouched under open wooden stairs, peering through the gaps like a sniper through slats. Beast + stairs = calculated targeting from a hidden vantage point.
Quick recall
A beast under the stairs can aim at anyone stepping above.

Details

The keyword for 狙 is aim at. This kanji conveys the idea of targeting something, setting one's sights on a goal, or deliberately directing one's attention toward a specific objective. It carries the nuance of carefully watching and waiting for the right moment to act, much like a predator focusing intently on its prey. The character is often used in contexts involving strategic intent, ambition, or the deliberate pursuit of something desired.
On'yomi
そ、しょ
Kun'yomi
ねら.う、ねら.い