1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “乙” (otsu) primarily means “second” or “the second in a series.” It is often used to denote something that comes after the first or to indicate a secondary position.
2. Formation and Radical
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji “乙” is classified as a pictogram, originally representing a simple shape. It is one of the oldest kanji and has evolved over time.
Radical: The radical for “乙” is also “乙,” which is used in various kanji to convey meanings related to secondary or subordinate concepts.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases: “乙” is often found in words like “乙女” (otome, meaning “maiden”) and “乙な” (otsuna, meaning “secondary” or “subordinate”).
Example Sentences in Daily Conversation:
- 「彼は乙な役割を果たしている。」(Kare wa otsuna yakuwari o hatashite iru.) – “He plays a secondary role.”
- 「この作品は乙の視点から描かれている。」(Kono sakuhin wa otsu no shiten kara egakarete iru.) – “This work is depicted from a secondary perspective.”
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji: A similar kanji is “二” (ni), which means “two.” While both indicate a secondary position, “二” is more numerical, while “乙” carries a connotation of being subordinate or secondary in a broader context.
Antonyms: The antonym of “乙” is “甲” (kou), which means “first” or “primary.” This kanji represents the top position or the primary element in a series.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Relation to Japanese Culture: In Japanese culture, “乙” is often associated with the concept of duality, where the second element complements the first. It reflects the balance found in many aspects of life.
Proverbs and Idioms: One common idiom is “甲乙つけがたい” (kou otsu tsuke gatai), which means “hard to distinguish between the first and second,” indicating that two things are equally good or bad.