Meaning

Primary

Finger

Alternative

Toe

Word Type

noun

Explanation

The kanji and the word are almost exactly the same. The only difference is that this word can mean finger or toe. What are toes but small, walking fingers?

Reading

ゆび
  • Kyoko
    (Tokyo accent, female)
  • Kenichi
    (Tokyo accent, male)

Explanation

Since this word is made up of a single kanji, it probably uses the kun'yomi reading. You did not learn this reading, so here's a mnemonic to help you to remember:

What do you use your finger for the most? For pointing, of course! Imagine going up to people and saying, "What will you be (ゆび) when you grow up?" Point your finger at the next person, "What will you be?" Keep going until you're just saying, "You be? You be?" with your finger out.

Context

Patterns of Use

Common Word Combinations

  • 指でつかむ

    to grasp with one's fingers

    指でさわる

    to touch with one's finger

    指でなぞる

    to trace with a finger

Context Sentences

指がきれいですね。

You have such beautiful fingers.

なんで手の指も足の指も五本なんだろう?

Why do we have five fingers and also five toes?

突然中指が痛くなったんだけど。

I just had a sudden pain in my middle finger.

Kanji Composition