式

• Reading: しき
• Romaji: shiki
• Kanji breakdown: 式 (shiki) — ceremony, style, formula
• Pronunciation: /ɕi.ki/

Meaning

A ceremony; a style or formula. Used as a suffix meaning '~style' or '~ceremony.'

Functions both as a standalone noun and a productive suffix. As a noun, it refers to formal ceremonies like 結婚式 (wedding ceremony) or 卒業式 (graduation ceremony). As a suffix, it indicates a style or system, such as 日本式 (Japanese style) or 洋式 (Western style). Also used in mathematics for formula.

Examples

1. 来月、友達の結婚式に出ます。 I'm attending a friend's wedding ceremony next month.
2. 卒業式で先生が泣いていました。 The teacher was crying at the graduation ceremony.
3. このトイレは洋式です。 This toilet is Western-style.

Usage Guide

Context: ceremonies, formal events, systems

Tone: formal

Origin & History

From Chinese 式 (shì, style/form). The kanji depicts a tool or method, suggesting a structured form or procedure.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal