1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “給” (kyuu) means “to give” or “to provide.” It is often used in contexts related to supplying or delivering something, such as food, services, or resources.
2. Formation and Radical
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji “給” is a phonetic-ideographic character (形声文字). It combines the meaning of providing with a phonetic component that suggests its pronunciation.
Radical: The radical for “給” is “米” (rice), which is often associated with food and sustenance, reflecting the idea of providing nourishment.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases: Some frequently used words that include “給” are:
- 給料 (kyuuryou) – salary
- 給水 (kyuusui) – water supply
- 給食 (kyuushoku) – school lunch
Example Sentences in Daily Conversation:
- 彼は毎月給料をもらいます。 (Kare wa maitsuki kyuuryou o moraimasu.) – He receives his salary every month.
- 学校で給食を食べます。 (Gakkou de kyuushoku o tabemasu.) – I eat school lunch at school.
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji: A similar kanji is “与” (yo), which also means “to give” but is often used in more formal or literary contexts.
Antonyms: An antonym for “給” is “取” (toru), which means “to take.” This highlights the difference between providing and receiving.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Relation to Japanese Culture: The concept of “giving” is deeply rooted in Japanese culture, where sharing and providing for others is highly valued.
Proverbs and Idioms: One common saying is “与えられたものを大切にする” (ataerareta mono o taisetsu ni suru), which means “to cherish what is given.” This reflects the cultural importance of gratitude and respect for what one receives.