101
最
Most, Greatest, Maximum
もっとも (mottomo)
JLPT N3
Interesting Fact
One of the most useful modern Japanese expressions containing 最 is 最高 (saikō). Literally, it combines the ideas of “most/highest”, but Japanese speakers use it enthusiastically to mean “awesome!”, “the best!”, or “amazing!” Imagine finishing an incredible meal, seeing a breathtaking view of Fuji, or having the perfect vacation and shouting: 「最高！」
Memory Trick
The SUN(日) shines on a hand that TAKES(取) the biggest trophy—the MOST and GREATEST! 🏆 — 最!
Readings
Onyomi: サイ (sai)
Kunyomi: もっとも (mottomo)
Example Words
最高
さいこう (saikou)
The best
最近
さいきん (saikin)
Recently
最初
さいしょ (saisho)
First, Beginning
最後
さいご (saigo)
Last, End
Example Sentence
今日は 最後 の 授業です。
きょうは さいご の じゅぎょうです。
kyou wa saigo no jugyou desu
Today is the last class.