KanjiJLPT N1
Cleverness

cleverness, agile, alert

Mnemonic

Every ninja clan tests recruits the same way: not with swords, but with puzzles. True cleverness—reading every shadow, sensing every trap—is what makes a ninja legendary. Blades break, but cleverness never dulls.
Additional thoughts
Picture a ninja examination hall filled not with weapons but intricate puzzles. Every single recruit must solve them to graduate. Cleverness is the ninja's sharpest weapon—sharper than any katana.
Quick recall
Every ninja proves that cleverness cuts deeper than any blade.

Details

The keyword for 敏 is cleverness. This kanji conveys the idea of being quick-witted, sharp, and mentally agile. It suggests a natural aptitude for grasping things swiftly and responding with keen intelligence. The sense of cleverness here emphasizes not just raw intelligence but also the speed and sensitivity with which one perceives and reacts to situations.
On'yomi
びん
Kun'yomi
さとい

Used in kanji

Used in vocab