How to say “child” in Japanese

子供
こどもkodomo
nounJLPT N5Family & people
The short answer

“Child” in Japanese is 子供 (こども), pronounced kodomo.

Pronunciation

The word has 3 beats (morae), each about the same length. Tap a syllable to hear it, or play the whole word:

How to use it

Child or children. Someone else’s child is (okosan). May 5th is Children’s Day ().

Example sentences

  • 子供が三人います。こどもがさんにんいます。
    I have three children.
  • 子供のとき、ピアノを習いました。こどものとき、ピアノをならいました。
    I learned piano as a child.

Quick practice

Test yourself0/3
  1. What does {{子供}} mean?

  2. How do you read {{子供}}?

  3. Which word means “person”?

FAQ

How do you say child in Japanese?

Child in Japanese is 子供 (こども), pronounced “kodomo”.

How do you write child in Japanese?

It's written 子供 with kanji, or こども in hiragana. Both are read kodomo.

Is 子供 on the JLPT?

Yes. 子供 (kodomo) is a common word at JLPT N5 level, so it's worth learning early.