1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “貨” (ka) primarily means “goods” or “cargo.” It refers to items that are traded or transported, often in the context of commerce and trade.
2. Formation and Radical
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji “貨” is a phonetic-ideographic character (形声文字). It combines the radical for “goods” (亻) and a phonetic component that suggests its pronunciation.
Radical: The radical for “貨” is 亻, which is related to people or human actions, indicating the involvement of humans in trade and commerce.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases: Some frequently used words that include “貨” are:
- 貨物 (かもつ, kamotsu) – cargo, freight
- 貨幣 (かへい, kahei) – currency, money
Example Sentences in Daily Conversation:
- この貨物は明日到着します。 (This cargo will arrive tomorrow.)
- 新しい貨幣が発行されました。 (A new currency has been issued.)
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji: A similar kanji is “品” (ひん, hin), which means “goods” or “items,” but it often refers to quality or type rather than the act of trading.
Opposite Kanji: An antonym could be “無” (む, mu), meaning “none” or “without,” which contrasts with the idea of having goods or cargo.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Relation to Japanese Culture: The concept of “貨” is deeply rooted in Japan’s history of trade, especially during the Edo period when commerce flourished.
Proverbs and Idioms: One relevant proverb is “貨は人の道” (ka wa hito no michi), which translates to “Goods are the way of people,” emphasizing the importance of trade in human society.