1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “沈” (pronounced “chin” in Japanese) means “to sink” or “to submerge.” It conveys the idea of something descending or being immersed in a liquid, often used in both literal and metaphorical contexts.
2. Formation and Radical
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji “沈” is a phonetic-ideographic character (形声文字). It combines the radical for water (氵) with the phonetic component “心” (meaning “heart” or “mind”), suggesting a connection between emotions and the act of sinking.
Radical: The radical of “沈” is 氵, which is related to water, indicating its association with liquid or fluid contexts.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases:
- 沈没 (ちんぼつ, chinbotsu) – to sink (as in a ship)
- 沈黙 (ちんもく, chinmoku) – silence
Example Sentences in Daily Conversation:
- 船が沈んでしまった。 (The ship has sunk.)
- 彼は沈黙を守った。 (He maintained silence.)
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji:
- 落ちる (おちる, ochiru) – to fall; while both “沈” and “落ちる” imply descent, “沈” specifically refers to sinking in water.
Antonyms:
- 浮く (うく, uku) – to float; this is the opposite of “沈,” indicating something that rises or stays on the surface of water.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Connection to Japanese Culture: The concept of sinking is often associated with emotions in Japanese literature and art, symbolizing feelings of despair or loss.
Proverbs and Idioms: One common saying is “沈黙は金” (ちんもくはきん, chinmoku wa kin), which translates to “Silence is golden,” emphasizing the value of quietness in certain situations.