待
Wait
ま(つ) (matsu)
JLPT N4
Interesting Fact
Japan is famous for punctual trains, yet you'll still hear 待ってください (matte kudasai, 'please wait') everywhere—from train stations to restaurants and stores.
Memory Trick
Imagine standing at a train platform watching the tracks until your train arrives. That waiting helps you remember 待 means 'wait.'
Readings
Onyomi: タイ (tai)
Kunyomi: ま(つ) (matsu)
Example Words
待つ
まつ (matsu)
To wait
期待
きたい (kitai)
Expectation
待合室
まちあいしつ (machiaishitsu)
Waiting room
招待
しょうたい (shoutai)
Invitation
Example Sentence
駅で 友達を 待っています。
えきで ともだちを まっています。
eki de tomodachi o matteimasu
I am waiting for my friend at the station.