顔

音読おんよみ: ガン

訓読くんよみ: かお

画数かくすう: 18 strokes

部首ぶしゅ: 頁(おおがい)

Meaning

Face or expression — what we show or feel outwardly

  • 童顔どうがん — baby face / youthful face
  • 顔料がんりょう — pigment
  • 洗顔せんがん — face washing
  • 顔役かおやく — influential figure / local notable
  • 顔色かおいろ — complexion / expression
  • 笑顔えがお — smiling face
  • 顔面がんめん — face (anatomical / formal)

This kanji includes “head” and “sound,” suggesting a person’s outward appearance and emotional state. It reflects identity — how someone is seen or expresses themselves through facial expression.

かれ笑顔えがお素敵すてきだった。
His smile was wonderful.

顔色かおいろわるいですね。
You don't look well.

面
Creates
顔面がんめん — face (anatomical / formal)
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