1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “礎” (iso) means “foundation” or “base.” It represents the idea of something that supports or underpins a structure, both literally and metaphorically.
2. Formation and Radicals
The kanji “礎” is a compound character, formed by combining the radical for “stone” (石) with the character “so” (倉), which relates to storage or a place. This combination emphasizes the idea of a solid base made of stone.
The radical for “礎” is 石, which signifies its connection to stone and solidity.
3. Examples of Usage
Common words and phrases that include “礎” are:
- 礎石 (isoshi) – foundation stone
- 礎を築く (iso o kizuku) – to lay a foundation
Example sentence in daily conversation:
「このプロジェクトの成功は、しっかりした礎が必要です。」
(“The success of this project requires a solid foundation.”)
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar kanji with related meanings include:
- 基 (ki) – base or foundation, often used in a more abstract sense.
- 土台 (dodai) – base or groundwork, typically used for physical structures.
Antonyms include:
- 崩壊 (houkai) – collapse, which signifies the opposite of a solid foundation.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
The concept of “礎” is significant in Japanese culture, as it relates to the importance of having a strong foundation in various aspects of life, including relationships, education, and business.
Proverbs and idiomatic expressions that reflect this idea include:
- 「根を張る」(ne o haru) – to establish roots, which emphasizes the importance of a strong foundation for growth.