1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “伎” (ki) generally refers to a skill or performance, particularly in the context of arts such as music, dance, or acting. It embodies the idea of a performer or an artist who showcases their talents.
2. Formation and Radical
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji “伎” is a phonetic compound (形声文字), which combines the meaning of the radical with a phonetic component. The left part, “亻” (the person radical), indicates that it relates to people, while the right part, “奇” (ki), contributes to the pronunciation and adds a sense of uniqueness or strangeness.
Radical: The radical of “伎” is “亻”, which signifies a person or human-related actions.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases: Some frequently used words that include “伎” are:
- 芸伎 (geiki) – a performer or artist, especially in traditional Japanese arts.
- 伎楽 (giguraku) – a type of traditional music and dance performance.
Example Sentences in Daily Conversation:
- 彼は素晴らしい芸伎です。 (Kare wa subarashii geiki desu.) – He is a wonderful performer.
- この伎楽はとても美しいです。 (Kono giguraku wa totemo utsukushii desu.) – This performance is very beautiful.
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji: A similar kanji is “技” (gi), which also relates to skill but is more focused on technique or craftsmanship rather than performance.
Antonyms: An antonym could be “無能” (munou), meaning incompetence or lack of skill.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Relation to Japanese Culture: The kanji “伎” is deeply rooted in Japanese performing arts, such as Kabuki and Noh, where skilled performers are highly respected. It reflects the cultural appreciation for artistic expression.
Proverbs and Idioms: One relevant idiom is “芸は身を助ける” (Gei wa mi o tasukeru), which means “Skill will help you survive,” emphasizing the importance of skill in life.