1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “敏” (pronounced “bin” in Japanese) means “quick,” “sensitive,” or “agile.” It conveys the idea of being alert and responsive to one’s surroundings.
2. Formation and Radical
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji “敏” is a phonetic compound (形声文字) that combines the radical for “heart” (心) with a phonetic component that suggests its pronunciation.
Radical: The radical of “敏” is 心, which relates to emotions and feelings, emphasizing the sensitivity aspect of the character.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases: Some frequently used words that include “敏” are:
- 敏感 (binkan) – sensitive
- 敏捷 (binjaku) – agile
Example Sentences in Daily Conversation:
- 彼はとても敏感な人です。 (Kare wa totemo binkan na hito desu.) – He is a very sensitive person.
- 彼女は敏捷に動くことができます。 (Kanojo wa binjaku ni ugoku koto ga dekimasu.) – She can move agilely.
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji: A similar kanji is “鋭” (surudoi), which means “sharp” or “keen,” but it often refers to physical sharpness or mental acuity rather than sensitivity.
Antonyms: An antonym of “敏” is “鈍” (nibui), which means “dull” or “slow,” indicating a lack of sensitivity or responsiveness.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Relation to Japanese Culture: The concept of being “敏” is valued in Japanese culture, especially in contexts like martial arts, where quick reflexes and sensitivity to an opponent’s movements are crucial.
Proverbs and Idioms: One relevant proverb is “敏感は美” (binkan wa bi), which translates to “Sensitivity is beauty,” highlighting the appreciation for being perceptive and aware in social interactions.