1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “棺” (kan) means “coffin” in English. It refers to a box or container used to hold a deceased person’s body for burial or cremation.
2. Formation and Radicals
The kanji “棺” is a compound character, formed by combining the radical “木” (tree) and the character “官” (official). The use of the tree radical suggests a connection to wood, which is the primary material used in making coffins.
The radical “木” indicates that the character is related to wood or trees, which is fitting since coffins are traditionally made from wooden materials.
3. Examples of Usage
Common words and phrases that include “棺” are:
- 棺桶 (かんおけ, kanoke) – coffin
- 棺材 (かんざい, Kanzai) – coffin or casket
Example sentence in daily conversation:
「彼の棺は美しい木で作られていました。」(かれのかんはうつくしいきでつくられていました。) – “His coffin was made of beautiful wood.”
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar kanji with related meanings include:
- 墓 (はか, haka) – grave, which refers to the burial site rather than the coffin itself.
Antonyms include:
- 生 (せい, sei) – life, which represents the opposite of death.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
The kanji “棺” has significant cultural relevance in Japan, where funerary practices often involve traditional wooden coffins. The design and materials used can vary based on regional customs and the deceased’s status.
In Japanese culture, there are various proverbs and idiomatic expressions related to death and funerals, reflecting the importance of honoring the deceased. For example, “死者を敬う” (ししゃをうやまう, shisha o uyamau) means “to respect the deceased,” highlighting the cultural emphasis on reverence for those who have passed away.