役 Kanji – duty
The Japanese kanji 役 can mean duty, war, campaign, drafted labor, office, service, role.
Meaning and Readings
How is 役 read?
役 has the onyomi readings ヤク, エキ.
In romaji, these readings can be written as yaku, eki.
Common Japanese Words Using 役
These common Japanese words contain 役. Select linked kanji to explore their meanings and readings.
- 悪役（あくやく） — villain, baddie, the villain's part
- 監査役（かんさやく） — auditor, inspector
- 区役所（くやくしょ） — ward office, council (regional)
- 現役（げんえき） — active duty, active service
- 三役（さんやく） — three highest ranks (wrestling, unions, etc.)
- 市役所（しやくしょ） — municipal office, council, city hall
- 主役（しゅやく） — leading part, leading actor, leading actress
- 取締役会（とりしまりやくかい） — board of directors
- 重役（じゅうやく） — (company) director, executive, top management
- 助役（じょやく） — assistant official