1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “拙” (pronounced “setsu”) generally means “clumsy” or “awkward.” It is often used to describe a lack of skill or finesse in actions or expressions.
2. Formation and Radical
The kanji “拙” is a compound character (会意文字) that combines the radical “手” (meaning “hand”) with the character “折” (meaning “to break” or “to fold”). This combination suggests a sense of clumsiness in handling things with one’s hands.
The radical of “拙” is “手,” which is commonly associated with actions performed by the hands.
3. Examples of Usage
Common words and phrases that include “拙” are:
- 拙者 (せっしゃ, sessha) – a humble way to refer to oneself, often used by samurai.
- 拙い (つたない, tsutanai) – meaning “clumsy” or “poor” in skill.
Example sentence in daily conversation:
「私の絵は拙いですが、楽しんで描いています。」
(My drawing is clumsy, but I enjoy creating it.)
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar kanji with related meanings include:
- 下手 (へた, heta) – meaning “unskilled” or “poor at something,” which is often used in a more casual context.
Antonyms include:
- 上手 (じょうず, jouzu) – meaning “skilled” or “good at something.”
5. Cultural and Historical Background
The kanji “拙” has cultural significance in Japan, often reflecting humility. In traditional contexts, such as among samurai, it is used to express modesty about one’s abilities.
Proverbs and idiomatic expressions that include “拙” often emphasize the value of humility and the acceptance of one’s limitations, such as:
- 「拙者は未熟者でございます。」(I am an inexperienced person.)