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先
before · ahead · previous · future
N5On: せんKun: さき
Memory Aid
This kanji looks like a person with a head (top part) and legs stepping forward (bottom part). This motion suggests moving 'AHEAD' or going 'BEFORE' others.
'SEN' — Think of 'SENding' someone 'AHEAD' or 'BEFORE' you.
Vocabulary
先生せんせいteacher
先週せんしゅうlast week
先日せんじつthe other day
先さきdestination, point ahead
先にさきにbefore, first
Example Sentences
先生に質問があります。
I have a question for the teacher.
先週、友達と映画を見ました。
Last week, I watched a movie with my friend.
駅は道の先にあります。
The station is at the end of the road (ahead).
お先にどうぞ。
Please go ahead.