1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “籍” (seki) primarily means “registration” or “membership.” It is often used in contexts related to official documents, such as family registers or school enrollments.
2. Origin and Radical
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji “籍” is a compound character (会意文字) that combines elements to convey its meaning. It consists of the radical “竹” (bamboo) and the character “責” (responsibility), suggesting a connection to formal records and obligations.
Radical: The radical of “籍” is “竹,” which relates to bamboo, often associated with writing materials in ancient times.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases: Some frequently used terms include “国籍” (kokuseki – nationality), “籍簿” (sekibo – register), and “在籍” (zaiseki – enrollment).
Example Sentences in Daily Conversation:
- 私の国籍は日本です。 (Watashi no kokuseki wa Nihon desu.) – My nationality is Japanese.
- 学校に在籍していますか？ (Gakkou ni zaiseki shiteimasu ka?) – Are you enrolled in school?
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji: A similar kanji is “名簿” (meibo – list of names), which also relates to records but focuses more on names rather than formal registration.
Opposite Kanji: An antonym could be “無籍” (museki – unregistered), indicating a lack of official membership or registration.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Connection to Japanese Culture: The concept of “籍” is deeply rooted in Japanese culture, where family registers (戸籍, koseki) play a crucial role in legal and social matters.
Proverbs and Idioms: While there are no specific proverbs that directly use “籍,” the importance of maintaining one’s “koseki” reflects the value placed on family and heritage in Japanese society.