1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji 威 (pronounced “i” in Japanese) generally means “power,” “authority,” or “dignity.” It conveys a sense of strength and respect, often associated with someone who commands presence or influence.
2. Formation and Radical
The kanji 威 is a compound character (会意文字) that combines elements to convey its meaning. It consists of the radical 戈 (meaning “spear” or “weapon”) which suggests strength or power, and the phonetic component 韦 (which contributes to the pronunciation).
The radical 戈 is often associated with military or combative contexts, reinforcing the idea of authority and power.
3. Examples of Usage
Common words and phrases that include the kanji 威 are:
- 威厳 (igen) – dignity, majesty
- 威圧 (iwa) – intimidation, coercion
Example sentence in daily conversation:
「彼は威厳のある人です。」
(Kare wa igen no aru hito desu.)
This translates to “He is a person of dignity.”
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar kanji with related meanings include:
- 力 (chikara) – strength, power (more physical than authoritative)
- 権威 (ken’i) – authority, influence (more focused on social or institutional power)
Antonyms include:
- 無力 (muryoku) – powerless, weak
- 卑怯 (hikyou) – cowardice, lack of courage
5. Cultural and Historical Background
The kanji 威 has significant ties to Japanese culture, often used in contexts that emphasize respect and authority, such as in traditional ceremonies or leadership roles.
Proverbs and idiomatic expressions that include 威 might reflect the importance of dignity and respect in social interactions, highlighting the cultural value placed on authority and presence.