剣・劒・劍|けんken[1]atamadaka (head-high)
つるぎtsurugi[0]heiban (flat)
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Which spelling to use
剣剣 is the most common form and the recommended choice for beginners. It is written entirely in kanji, and learners should use it when choosing a form to write.
劒劒 is less common than 剣 and is written entirely in kanji. It is an outdated kanji, so beginners should use 剣 instead.
劍劍 is less common than 剣 and 劒 and is written entirely in kanji. It is an outdated kanji, so beginners should use 剣 instead.
Definitions
- nounsword (esp. a large, double-edged one); blade
- nounbayonet
- nounswordsmanship
- noun, zoologystinger; ovipositor; dart
Synonyms & antonyms
- Synonym刀かたなNeutralRefers to the single-edged Japanese sword, especially the katana; 「剣」 usually means a double-edged sword and also covers swordsmanship.
- SynonymソードNeutralA loanword covering swords in general, often Western-style ones; common in video games and fantasy works.
Use 「剣」 for double-edged swords or swordsmanship, as in 「剣道」 and 「伝説の剣」; use 「刀」 for the single-edged Japanese sword. 「ソード」 is a loanword common in games and fantasy works.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese definitions
Kanji in this word
English equivalents
See also


