1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “船” (pronounced “fune” in Japanese) means “ship” or “boat.” It refers to a vessel used for traveling on water, whether for transportation, fishing, or leisure activities.
2. Formation and Radicals
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji “船” is a compound character that combines elements to convey its meaning. It is derived from the pictographic representation of a boat, emphasizing its shape and function.
Radical: The radical for “船” is “舟” (pronounced “shuu”), which also means “boat” or “vessel.” This radical is commonly found in other kanji related to watercraft.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases: Some frequently used words that include “船” are:
- 船舶 (せんぱく, senpaku) – “ship”
- 漁船 (ぎょせん, gyosen) – “fishing boat”
- 客船 (きゃくせん, kyakusen) – “passenger ship”
Example Sentences in Daily Conversation:
- 「私たちは船で旅行します。」(We will travel by boat.)
- 「あの船はとても大きいですね。」(That ship is very big, isn’t it?)
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji: A similar kanji is “艇” (てい, tei), which also means “boat” but typically refers to smaller vessels like canoes or rowboats.
Opposite Kanji: An antonym is “陸” (りく, riku), meaning “land,” which represents the opposite of being on water.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Relation to Japanese Culture: Ships have played a significant role in Japanese history, especially in trade and fishing. The kanji “船” reflects the importance of maritime activities in Japan’s development.
Proverbs and Idioms: One common saying is “船に乗る” (ふねにのる, fune ni noru), which means “to board a ship,” often used metaphorically to indicate embarking on a new journey or adventure.