1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “飢” (ki) means “hunger” or “starvation.” It represents a state of needing food and is often associated with a deep sense of longing or deprivation.
2. Formation and Radical
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji “飢” is a compound character that combines elements to convey its meaning. It consists of the radical for “food” (食) and the character for “to be” (器), indicating a state related to food.
Radical: The radical of “飢” is 食 (shoku), which relates to food and eating.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases:
- 飢餓 (kiga) – famine
- 飢え (ue) – hunger
Example Sentences in Daily Conversation:
- 「私はお腹が空いて、飢えを感じています。」(Watashi wa onaka ga suite, ue o kanjiteimasu.) – “I am hungry and feeling the pangs of hunger.”
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji:
- 渇 (katsu) – thirst; while “飢” refers to hunger, “渇” refers to the need for water.
Opposite Kanji:
- 満 (man) – fullness; it represents the state of being satisfied or having enough food.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Relation to Japanese Culture: The concept of hunger has significant implications in Japanese culture, often reflected in literature and art, emphasizing the importance of food and sustenance.
Proverbs and Idioms: One common saying is “飢えた狼は危険” (Ueta ōkami wa kiken), which translates to “A hungry wolf is dangerous,” highlighting the idea that desperation can lead to dangerous behavior.