央 — center, middle
Learn the correct stroke order for 央 (center), a 5-stroke kanji.
Stroke Order
Step-by-Step Diagram
Try Writing It
Practice writing each stroke in the correct order and direction. Start from the green dot.
Draw stroke 1 of 5 — start from the green dot
Common Words
Usage & Examples
Usage Notes
The kanji 央 (center) is taught in grade 3 of Japanese elementary school and appears at JLPT N2 level. It has 5 strokes with radical 大.
In newspaper frequency rankings, 央 is #582, making it a frequently used kanji.
Example Words in Context
Practice Sheet
Trace then write on your own. Print this row as a PDF practice sheet.
Related Kanji
Frequently Asked Questions
How many strokes does 央 have?
The kanji 央 (center) has 5 strokes. Watch the animation above to see the correct order.
What is the correct stroke order for 央?
央 follows the standard Japanese stroke order as taught in schools. Use the step-by-step diagram or the "Try Writing" tool above to practice each stroke in sequence.
What does 央 mean?
央 means: center, middle. On'yomi readings: オウ.
What JLPT level is 央?
央 is a JLPT N2 kanji. This is an advanced kanji.