1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “吉” (kichi) means “good luck” or “auspicious.” It is often associated with positive outcomes and favorable circumstances in various contexts.
2. Formation and Radical
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji “吉” is classified as a phono-semantic compound (形声文字), where the left part suggests a phonetic element, while the right part conveys meaning. It is derived from ancient Chinese characters that represented good fortune.
Radical: The radical for “吉” is “口” (kuchi), which means “mouth.” This radical often relates to speech or communication, hinting at the importance of expressing good fortune.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases:
- 吉日 (kijitsu) – auspicious day
- 吉報 (kippou) – good news
Example Sentences in Daily Conversation:
- 今日は吉日だから、結婚式を挙げるのに最適です。
- (Today is an auspicious day, making it perfect for holding a wedding.)
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji:
- 幸 (sachi) – happiness; while both “吉” and “幸” relate to positive outcomes, “幸” emphasizes personal happiness.
Opposite Kanji:
- 凶 (kyou) – bad luck; this kanji represents misfortune or ominous events, contrasting sharply with “吉.”
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Relation to Japanese Culture: In Japan, “吉” is often used in traditional practices, such as selecting auspicious dates for events like weddings or starting new ventures. It reflects the cultural significance placed on luck and fortune.
Proverbs and Idioms: One common saying is “吉凶はあらかじめ決まっている” (Kikyou wa arakajime kimatte iru), meaning “Good and bad fortune are predetermined,” highlighting the belief in fate and luck in Japanese culture.