Writing system · N5–N3
On’yomi and kun’yomi without the headache
A useful way to think about kanji readings without memorizing disconnected lists.
In short
Many kanji have multiple readings because Japanese vocabulary combines native Japanese words with historically imported Chinese-derived readings.
How it works
On’yomi often appears in compounds such as 学生（がくせい）. Kun’yomi often appears when a kanji represents a native word, frequently with kana endings, such as 食べる（たべる）. These are tendencies, not mechanical rules.
Useful contrast
The useful unit is usually the word, not the isolated character. Learn 学生 as がくせい rather than trying to guess 学 and 生 separately every time.
Examples
学生
student
食べる
to eat
Common pitfall
Do not assume every listed reading is equally useful. Prioritize the readings that occur in words you actually meet.