Translation of Japanese word "読む" to English
読む
よむ
[yomu]
IPA: /jɔmɯ/
Meaning
VerbTo look at and interpret letters or other information that is written.
How to use
読む (yomu) — 'to read'. Group 1 verb. よみます (polite), よんだ (past). 本を読む — read a book. 読み方 (yomikata) — how to read / reading method. 読書 (dokusho) — reading (as a hobby).
🇬🇧 English
to read
Pronunciation Guide
Japanese Kanji: 読む
Phonetic Reading (Hiragana): よむ
Romaji Transcription: yomu
Example Sentences
私は本を読む。
わたしは ほんを よむ。
I'm reading a book.
彼は新聞を読んでいる。
かれは しんぶんを よんでいる。
He is reading the newspaper.
Your personal vocabulary
🦊 Use this word in a live AI conversationSynonyms
Common phrases
- 本を読む— to read a book
- 読み方— reading / how to read
- 読書— reading (hobby)
This concept in other languages
Frequency rank: #45 in Japanese
Learn them all! 🚀
Master the 1000 most common Japanese words with smart explanations, audio pronunciation, and spaced repetition.
Start Learning For Free →No sign-up required
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Japanese word "読む" mean?▼
The Japanese word "読む" means "to read" in English.
How do you pronounce the Japanese word "読む"?▼
The word "読む" is read as "よむ" (yomu). You can hear the correct audio pronunciation by clicking the play button next to the word at the top of this page.
Can I see a usage guide or example with "読む"?▼
Yes, here is a practical context/example: "Refers to the act of understanding written text.".
More Core Verbs words
Related reading
Duolingo vs Anki vs Apps: Comparing Language Learning Methods in 2026
An honest comparison of popular language learning approaches: gamified apps, SRS flashcards, textbooks, tutors, and immersion. Pros, cons, and who each is best for.
Read →MethodWhat Is Spaced Repetition? The SM-2 Algorithm Explained Simply
Spaced repetition is the single most effective method for memorizing vocabulary. Learn how the forgetting curve works, how the SM-2 algorithm calculates review intervals, and why 20 minutes a day beats 2 hours of cramming.
Read →