1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “浴” (yoku) means “to bathe” or “to wash.” It is commonly associated with the act of taking a bath or shower, and it conveys a sense of cleansing and relaxation.
2. Formation and Radical
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji “浴” is a phonetic-ideographic character (形声文字). It combines the radical for water (氵) with the phonetic component “yoku” (浴), which suggests the action of bathing.
Radical: The radical of “浴” is氵, which is related to water, indicating that the character is associated with activities involving water.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases:
- 浴室 (yokushitsu) – bathroom
- 入浴 (nyūyoku) – bathing
- 温浴 (on’yoku) – hot bath
Example Sentences in Daily Conversation:
- 今日はお風呂に入る予定です。 (Kyō wa ofuro ni hairu yotei desu.) – I plan to take a bath today.
- 温泉でリラックスしたいです。 (Onsen de rirakkusu shitai desu.) – I want to relax in a hot spring.
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji:
- 洗 (sen) – to wash; this kanji emphasizes the action of washing rather than bathing.
- 浸 (shin) – to soak; this kanji implies being submerged in water.
Antonyms:
- 乾 (kan) – to dry; this kanji represents the opposite action of bathing or washing.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Connection to Japanese Culture: Bathing is an important aspect of Japanese culture, often associated with relaxation and purification. Traditional Japanese baths, or “onsen,” are popular for their therapeutic benefits.
Proverbs and Idioms:
- 浴衣 (yukata) – a casual summer kimono often worn to festivals, highlighting the cultural significance of bathing and relaxation.