1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “尽” (pronounced “jin” or “tsukusu”) generally means “to exhaust,” “to use up,” or “to do one’s utmost.” It conveys the idea of putting in all effort or resources until nothing remains.
2. Formation and Radical
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji “尽” is a phonetic-ideographic character (形声文字). It combines the radical for “water” (氵) on the left, which often relates to fluidity or abundance, and the phonetic component “尽” on the right, which suggests the idea of completion or exhaustion.
Radical: The radical of “尽” is 氵, which is associated with water and often appears in kanji related to liquids or flow.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases:
- 尽力 (じんりょく, jinryoku) – “to do one’s best” or “to exert oneself”
- 尽きる (つきる, tsukiru) – “to run out” or “to be exhausted”
Example Sentences in Daily Conversation:
- 彼はプロジェクトのために尽力しました。
(かれはプロジェクトのためにじんりょくしました。)
“He did his utmost for the project.” - 資源が尽きる前に新しい方法を見つける必要があります。
(しげんがつきるまえにあたらしいほうほうをみつけるひつようがあります。)
“We need to find new methods before the resources run out.”
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji:
- 使う (つかう, tsukau) – “to use” (more general, does not imply exhaustion)
- 消費 (しょうひ, shouhi) – “consumption” (focuses on the act of using up resources)
Opposite Kanji:
- 生 (せい, sei) – “to live” or “to be born” (implies existence and vitality, opposite of exhaustion)
- 保つ (たもつ, tamotsu) – “to maintain” or “to preserve” (suggests keeping something rather than exhausting it)
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Relation to Japanese Culture: The concept of “尽” is often associated with the Japanese value of hard work and dedication. It reflects the cultural emphasis on giving one’s all in various aspects of life, including work and relationships.
Proverbs and Idioms:
- 尽力を尽くす (じんりょくをつくす, jinryoku o tsukusu) – “to spare no effort” (a common phrase encouraging full commitment)
- 尽きることのない愛 (つきることのないあい, tsukiru koto no nai ai) – “endless love” (suggests a love that does not exhaust itself)