Inner strength
A clear, calm mind
meikyō shisui / めいきょうしすい
Dictionary meaning
明鏡止水 describes a calm, clear state of mind free from distracting or impure thoughts. 明鏡 evokes a mirror without clouding, and 止水 refers to clear water at rest. The dictionary cites the Zhuangzi as a source.
Your intended symbolism
Your personal symbolism is separate from the dictionary meaning. Explain what you want this choice to express to a fluent Japanese reader and your artist.
Context & cautions
The mirror and water are images for a state of mind; the phrase is not simply a label for a lake or mirror.
Size & legibility: discuss with your artist
There is no universal minimum tattoo size based on stroke count. Ask your artist to check line weight, the gaps between strokes, placement, and how the lettering may age. Preview dimensions include transparent margins and are not a safe minimum size.
Typeface, output quality & sources →Dictionary reference: Japanese dictionary entry ↗
Dictionary links are references only. They do not mean that the linked organization certifies, endorses, or supervises this site.
PICTURE YOUR PLACEMENT
See your kanji on skin
Explore where your kanji could sit before discussing the final placement with your artist.
From character to lettering
This is a typeset reference, rather than a tattoo stencil. Check the final drawing, orientation, and intended meaning with a fluent Japanese reader and your artist.
Read the before-the-ink guide →
