thirsty

JLPT N5 12 strokes

Words with this Kanji

Usage of (kě)

The character primarily means "thirsty" in a physical sense, describing the need to drink water. It is commonly used in everyday conversation when someone feels the need to hydrate.

Besides the literal meaning, can also express a strong desire or craving for something intangible, such as success or knowledge, often paired with words like 渴望 (kěwàng).

Common Collocations

  • (kě le): to be thirsty
  • 渴望成功 (kěwàng chénggōng): to yearn for success
  • (hěn kě): very thirsty

Notes

When using to express thirst, it usually appears with the particle to indicate a change of state (e.g., ). When expressing desire, it often combines with other words to form compounds like 渴望.

Avoid confusing with 渴望, which specifically means "to long for" or "to crave" and is more abstract than the physical sensation of thirst.

Example Sentences

I'm thirsty, can you give me a glass of water?

He is eager for success, so he works hard every day.

After exercising, I was very thirsty and immediately drank a lot of water.