命
inochi
Life
Considering 命 (Life) as a kanji tattoo? Here's what it actually means to native Japanese speakers — and whether it's a safe choice.
Cultural Assessment
Most Japanese speakers will see 命 and immediately think of life in its most precious and irreplaceable sense — not just biological existence, but something sacred and worth protecting. The first impression is serious and profound. This word appears in expressions like 命がけ (inochigake, risking one's life), 命を懸ける (inochi wo kakeru, to stake one's life), and 命の恩人 (inochi no onjin, lifesaver). ...
How Japanese people actually react
Related Words & Alternatives
Etymology & History
Unlock Full Assessment
Get the complete kanji tattoo assessment for 命 (Life) — including how Japanese people actually react, related words, and etymology.