# non-conversion key

> key on Japanese keyboards specifying that the kana characters entered are not to be converted into kanji candidates

**Wikidata**: [Q122375885](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q122375885)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/non-conversion-key

## Summary
The non-conversion key is a physical key on Japanese keyboards that prevents the automatic conversion of typed kana characters into kanji candidates during text input. It is essential for users who need to input kana directly without the system suggesting kanji alternatives.

## Key Facts
- **Function**: Specifically used in Japanese input methods to stop the conversion of kana characters into kanji candidates.
- **Aliases**: Also known as "muhenkan key" (無変換キー) and "무헨칸 키" (Korean transliteration).
- **Classification**: A subclass of the broader "language input key" class.
- **Native Label**: "無変換キー" (written in Kanji), with the pronunciation "むへんかんキー" and the romanization "muhenkan kī".
- **Availability**: Found on standard Japanese keyboards.
- **Image Reference**: Visual representation available at https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:FilePath/FKB8579-661.JPG.
- **Online Presence**: Has a dedicated Japanese Wikipedia page (sitelink count: 1).
- **Niconicopedia Reference**: Listed under the entry "無変換キー".

## FAQs
### Q: What does the non-conversion key do?
A: The non-conversion key instructs the Japanese input method editor (IME) not to convert the currently typed kana syllables into kanji character candidates, allowing the user to input kana directly.

### Q: What is the non-conversion key called?
A: It is most commonly known as the "muhenkan key" (無変換キー) in Japanese. It is also sometimes referred to by the Korean transliteration "무헨칸 키".

### Q: Where is the non-conconversion key found?
A: It is a standard physical key found on keyboards designed for the Japanese language, typically positioned near other language input function keys.

### Q: What is the difference between the non-conversion key and the conversion key (henkan key)?
A: The non-conversion key (muhenkan key) prevents kanji conversion, while the conversion key (henkan key) *initiates* the conversion of typed kana into kanji candidates. They are opposite functions.

## Why It Matters
The non-conversion key is crucial for efficient Japanese text input. While Japanese input methods automatically convert kana to kanji for efficiency, users frequently need to input pure kana (e.g., for names, technical terms, or stylistic reasons). The non-conversion key provides immediate, direct control over this conversion process, preventing unwanted kanji suggestions and allowing users to type exactly what they intend. This functionality is fundamental to the usability of Japanese keyboards and input methods, reducing frustration and increasing typing speed and accuracy in contexts where kanji conversion is undesirable.

## Notable For
- **Standard Japanese Keyboard Element**: It is a universally recognized physical key on standard Japanese keyboards.
- **Core IME Functionality**: Represents a fundamental control mechanism within Japanese input methods, alongside the conversion key (henkan key).
- **Specific Wikipedia Entry**: Has its own dedicated Japanese Wikipedia page titled "無変換キー".
- **Niconicopedia Recognition**: Included as a distinct entry ("無変換キー") in the online encyclopedia Niconicopedia.

## Body
### Definition and Purpose
The non-conversion key is a physical input key located on keyboards designed for the Japanese language. Its primary function is to signal to the Japanese input method editor (IME) that the kana characters typed immediately before pressing this key should *not* be converted into potential kanji candidates. This allows direct input of kana characters without the system suggesting kanji alternatives.

### Naming and Aliases
- The official Japanese name is "無変換キー" (Muhenkan Ki).
- The native pronunciation is "むへんかんキー" (Muhenkan Kī).
- The romanized name used is "muhenkan kī".
- An alias is "무헨칸 키", reflecting its presence on some Korean keyboards or transliterations.

### Classification and Context
- It is a specific type of **language input key**.
- It belongs to the same functional class as other Japanese input method keys, such as the conversion key (henkan key) and kana toggle keys.
- It is essential for user control within the Japanese text input process.

### Online Presence
- **Wikipedia**: Exists in Japanese only, with the entry titled "無変換キー".
- **Niconicopedia**: Listed under the entry "無変換キー".
- **Visual Evidence**: An image depicting a typical non-conversion key (as the "無変換キー" label) is available on Wikimedia Commons.