SaKana - さ VS き // COMPARISON
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Visual Difference Guide

さ vs き — HOW TO TELL THEM APART

These two Hiragana lookalikes are the most commonly confused characters by Japanese learners. Here is how to distinguish them instantly.

CHARACTER #1
さ
/sa/
Strokes: 3
“A samurai dancer pointing a fan.”
Full さ Profile
CHARACTER #2
き
/ki/
Strokes: 4
“Looks like an antique brass key.”
Full き Profile
Key Anatomical Differences
  • さ (sa) has only ONE horizontal crossbar.
  • き (ki) has TWO horizontal crossbars.
  • Both characters sweep down to the lower loop.
GOLDEN MEMORY TRICK:

Remember: 'KI has a Key with two teeth, SA has only one crossbar.'

DRILL BOTH CHARACTERS IN THE PRACTICE DOJO

Test your visual reflex. Lock them in with speed drills so you will never mix them up while reading manga or subtitles.

START DRILL SESSION