よく

• Reading: よく
• Romaji: yoku
• Pronunciation: /jo.kɯ/

Meaning

Often; frequently; well; thoroughly. A versatile adverb of frequency and manner.

Has two primary meanings: frequency ('often,' as in よく行く = go often) and manner ('well,' as in よくできた = well done). Also used in the phrase よく来たね (glad you came). It is the adverbial form of the i-adjective 良い (yoi/ii, good).

Examples

1. 週末はよく映画を見ます。 I often watch movies on weekends.
2. この漢字がよくわかりません。 I don't really understand this kanji.
3. よく眠れましたか。 Did you sleep well?

Usage Guide

Context: daily life, habits, descriptions

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

The adverbial form of 良い (good), following the i-adjective pattern of replacing い with く. The kanji 善く or 好く are sometimes used but hiragana is standard.

Cultural Context

Era: Ancient

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal