1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “舶” (haku) refers to a ship or vessel, particularly in the context of large ships used for transportation across oceans. It is often associated with maritime activities and trade.
2. Formation and Radical
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji “舶” is a phonetic-ideographic character (形声文字). It combines the radical for “food” (食) and a phonetic component that suggests its pronunciation.
Radical: The radical of “舶” is “舌” (shita), which relates to the mouth or speech, but in this context, it is part of the structure that indicates the meaning related to ships.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases:
- 舶来品 (hakuraihin) – imported goods
- 船舶 (senpaku) – ships and vessels
Example Sentences in Daily Conversation:
- 「新しい舶が港に到着しました。」(A new ship has arrived at the port.)
- 「舶来品は高いですが、品質が良いです。」(Imported goods are expensive, but they are of good quality.)
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji:
- 船 (fune) – This also means “ship,” but it generally refers to smaller boats or vessels.
- 艦 (kan) – This refers specifically to warships or naval vessels.
Antonyms:
- 陸 (riku) – meaning “land,” which is the opposite of a vessel that travels on water.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Relation to Japanese Culture: The kanji “舶” is often used in contexts related to trade and international relations, reflecting Japan’s history as an island nation that has engaged in maritime trade for centuries.
Proverbs and Idioms: While there are no specific proverbs that use “舶,” the concept of ships and trade is prevalent in Japanese literature and expressions, emphasizing the importance of maritime activities in Japanese history.