安
Cheap, Safe, Peaceful
やす(い) (yasui)
JLPT N5
Interesting Fact
The kanji 安 originally represented a woman resting safely beneath a roof, symbolizing peace, security, and a worry-free life. Over time, the meaning expanded to include "cheap" because an affordable price creates the same feeling—it causes less stress and is easier on the wallet.
Memory Trick
A woman (女) sitting peacefully under a roof (宀) and thinking about buying cheaper clothes next time.
Readings
Onyomi: アン (an)
Kunyomi: やす(い) (yasui)
Example Words
安い
やすい (yasui)
Cheap
安全
あんぜん (anzen)
Safety
安心
あんしん (anshin)
Peace of mind
安売り
やすうり (yasuuri)
Sale, discount
Example Sentence
この店はとても安いです。
この みせ は とても やすい です。
kono mise wa totemo yasui desu
This store is very cheap.