
Key Phrases
いろ
iro
Color
あかるいいろ
akarui iro
Light color
くらいいろ
kurai iro
Dark color
Skills You'll Learn
Identifying colors
いろのはんべつ
iro no wa n betsu
Describing colors
いろのせつめい
iro no setsumei
Using color vocabulary in sentences
いろのたんごをぶんしょうでつかう
iro no tango o bunshou de tsukau
Lesson Vocabulary & Phrases
色
iro
Color
💬 The kanji [色] is commonly used and is pronounced as (iro).
🇯🇵 Colors are often associated with emotions and seasons in Japan, such as red for passion and autumn.
See breakdown →赤
aka
Red
💬 Pronounced as (aka), this kanji is simple but very distinct.
🇯🇵 Red is a color often seen in Japanese festivals and is believed to ward off evil spirits.
See breakdown →青
ao
Blue
💬 Pronounced as (ao), it can also refer to green in some contexts, like traffic lights.
🇯🇵 In Japan, 'blue' traffic lights actually look green to many foreigners.
See breakdown →黄
kiiro
Yellow
💬 This kanji is read as (ki).
🇯🇵 Yellow is associated with courage and is often used in children's stationery to encourage happiness.
See breakdown →緑
midori
Green
💬 Pronounced as (midori), it is a beautiful and refreshing color.
🇯🇵 Green tea (抹茶) is a popular flavor and color in Japanese sweets.
See breakdown →黒
kuro
Black
💬 Pronounced as (kuro), it’s a basic kanji to know.
🇯🇵 Black is often used in traditional Japanese clothing, like hakama worn during ceremonies.
See breakdown →白
shiro
White
💬 This kanji is read as (shiro).
🇯🇵 White is a color of purity and is commonly worn for ceremonial purposes like weddings.
See breakdown →明るい色
akarui iro
Light color
💬 ‘明るい’ means bright or cheerful.
🇯🇵 Bright colors are popular in spring fashion in Japan, representing renewal and growth.
See breakdown →暗い色
kurai iro
Dark color
💬 ‘暗い’ means dark. It can also imply 'somber' or 'gloomy'.
🇯🇵 Dark colors are often seen in Japanese winter fashion and can signify elegance and professionalism.
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