1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “郵” (yū) means “mail” or “post.” It is commonly associated with postal services and the sending and receiving of letters and packages.
2. Formation and Radical
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji “郵” is a compound character that combines elements to convey its meaning. It consists of the radical “⺅” (which relates to “to speak” or “to say”) and the character “尤,” which adds to the overall meaning related to communication.
Radical: The radical for “郵” is “⺅,” which is often associated with words related to speech and communication.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases: Some frequently used words that include “郵” are:
- 郵便 (yūbin) – mail, postal service
- 郵局 (yūkyoku) – post office
- 郵送 (yūsō) – mailing, sending by post
Example Sentences in Daily Conversation:
- 「郵便が届きましたか？」 (Yūbin ga todokimashita ka?) – “Has the mail arrived?”
- 「郵局に行ってきます。」 (Yūkyoku ni ittekimasu.) – “I will go to the post office.”
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji: A similar kanji is “送” (sō), which means “to send.” While both relate to communication, “送” focuses more on the action of sending, whereas “郵” emphasizes the postal aspect.
Opposite Kanji: An antonym could be “受” (ju), which means “to receive.” This contrasts with “郵,” which is more about the sending process.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Relation to Japanese Culture: The concept of mail and postal services has been integral to Japanese society, especially in the context of communication and the exchange of information. The postal system in Japan has a long history, dating back to the Edo period.
Proverbs and Idioms: There are various proverbs related to communication and messages, such as “手紙は心の窓” (Tegami wa kokoro no mado), which translates to “A letter is a window to the heart,” emphasizing the importance of written communication in expressing feelings.