1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “滝” (taki) means “waterfall.” It represents a natural feature where water cascades down a steep surface, often creating a beautiful and serene environment.
2. Formation and Radicals
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji “滝” is a phonetic-ideographic character (形声文字). It combines the water radical (氵) on the left, indicating its relation to water, and the character “タキ” (taki) on the right, which provides the pronunciation.
Radical: The radical for “滝” is 氵, which is a variant of the radical 水 (water), emphasizing the kanji’s connection to water.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases:
- 滝壺 (たきつぼ, takitsubo) – the pool at the base of a waterfall
- 滝音 (たきおと, takioto) – the sound of a waterfall
Example Sentences in Daily Conversation:
- 「この滝はとても美しいです。」(Kono taki wa totemo utsukushii desu.) – “This waterfall is very beautiful.”
- 「滝を見に行きませんか？」(Taki o mi ni ikimasen ka?) – “Shall we go see the waterfall?”
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji:
- 泉 (いずみ, izumi) – spring; refers to a natural source of water, but does not imply the same cascading effect as a waterfall.
- 川 (かわ, kawa) – river; a flowing body of water, but typically not as steep or dramatic as a waterfall.
Antonyms:
- 干上がる (ひあがる, hiagaru) – to dry up; indicates a lack of water, contrasting with the abundance of water in a waterfall.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Connection to Japanese Culture: Waterfalls hold significant cultural importance in Japan, often seen as sacred sites in Shinto beliefs. They are associated with purity and spiritual cleansing.
Proverbs and Idioms:
- 「滝の水は流れ去る」(Taki no mizu wa nagare saru) – “The water of the waterfall flows away,” symbolizing the transient nature of life.