体

• Reading: からだ
• Romaji: karada
• Kanji breakdown: 体 (karada/tai) — body, form
• Pronunciation: /ka.ɾa.da/

Meaning

Body; the physical body. The human body as a whole.

A noun referring to the physical body, used in countless everyday expressions. Common phrases include 体に気をつける (to take care of one's health), 体を動かす (to exercise), and 体が弱い (to have a weak constitution). Written as 体 in modern Japanese, though the older form 體 exists. Also read as からだ when written in hiragana.

Examples

1. 毎日運動して体を鍛えている。 I work out every day to stay in shape.
2. 風邪を引いて体がだるい。 I caught a cold and my body feels sluggish.
3. 体に気をつけてくださいね。 Take care of yourself, okay?

Usage Guide

Context: health, sports, daily life

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

The simplified kanji 体 replaced the traditional form 體. The character combines 人 (person) and 本 (origin, root), suggesting the fundamental physical form of a person.

Cultural Context

Era: Ancient

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal