1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “滞” (tai) generally means “to stagnate” or “to be delayed.” It conveys the idea of something being stuck or not moving forward, often used in contexts related to time or progress.
2. Formation and Radical
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji “滞” is a phonetic-ideographic character (形声文字). It combines the water radical (氵) on the left, which relates to fluidity or movement, with the phonetic component “tai” (怠) on the right, which suggests a sense of laziness or delay.
Radical: The radical of “滞” is 氵, which is associated with water and often appears in kanji related to liquids or flow.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases:
- 滞納 (tainou) – delinquency, especially in payments
- 滞在 (taizai) – stay, residence
Example Sentences in Daily Conversation:
- 「彼は仕事で滞っている。」(Kare wa shigoto de taikotte iru.) – “He is delayed with his work.”
- 「この道は交通が滞っています。」(Kono michi wa koutsuu ga taikotteimasu.) – “Traffic is stagnant on this road.”
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji:
- 停 (tei) – to stop; while both imply a lack of movement, “停” focuses more on the act of stopping rather than the state of being stuck.
Antonyms:
- 進 (shin) – to advance; this kanji represents movement forward, contrasting with the stagnation implied by “滞.”
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Relation to Japanese Culture: The concept of stagnation is often reflected in Japanese culture, particularly in discussions about progress and efficiency. The idea of “滞” can be seen in various aspects of life, from business practices to personal development.
Proverbs and Idioms: One relevant saying is “滞ることなく進む” (taitoru koto naku susumu), which means “to proceed without stagnation,” emphasizing the importance of continuous progress in life.