利口

• Reading: りこう
• Romaji: rikou
• Kanji breakdown: 利 (ri) — profit, sharp; 口 (kō) — mouth
• Pronunciation: /ɾi.koː/

Meaning

Clever; smart; bright. Describes someone who is quick-witted and makes good judgements.

A na-adjective and noun. Often used to describe children and animals: 利口な子 (a clever child), 利口な犬 (a smart dog). Carries a warm, approving nuance — closer to 'bright' or 'sharp' than the more academic 頭がいい (intelligent). Can also imply sensible behaviour: 利口にしなさい (behave yourself/be good).

Examples

1. うちの犬はとても利口でお手もできる。 Our dog is very clever — he can even shake hands.
2. 利口な子はすぐに状況を理解する。 A smart child grasps the situation right away.
3. もっと利口なやり方があるはずだ。 There has to be a smarter way to do this.

Usage Guide

Context: children, animals, praise

Tone: approving

Origin & History

Compound of 利 (ri, profit/sharp) and 口 (kō/kuchi, mouth). Originally 'a sharp mouth' — someone who speaks cleverly. Extended to mean generally smart and quick-witted.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal