1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “許” (pronounced “kyo” or “yurusu”) generally means “to permit,” “to allow,” or “to forgive.” It conveys the idea of granting permission or acceptance in various contexts.
2. Formation and Radical
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji “許” is a phonetic-ideographic character (形声文字). It combines the semantic component “言” (meaning “speech” or “words”) with the phonetic component “余,” which provides the pronunciation.
Radical: The radical of “許” is “言” (gen), which relates to speech or language, indicating that the kanji is associated with communication and expression.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases: Some frequently used words that include “許” are:
- 許可 (きょか, kyoka) – permission, approval
- 許す (ゆるす, yurusu) – to forgive, to allow
Example Sentences in Daily Conversation:
- 彼は私に遅れることを許可してくれました。
(かれはわたしにおくれることをきょかしてくれました。)
(He granted me permission to be late.) - 彼女は私を許してくれた。
(かのじょはわたしをゆるしてくれた。)
(She forgave me.)
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji: A similar kanji is “認” (にん, nin), which means “to recognize” or “to acknowledge.” While both kanji involve acceptance, “許” focuses more on permission, whereas “認” emphasizes acknowledgment.
Antonyms: An antonym of “許” is “禁止” (きんし, kinshi), which means “prohibition” or “forbidding.” This represents the opposite concept of allowing or permitting.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Relation to Japanese Culture: The concept of “許” is significant in Japanese culture, where harmony and social acceptance are valued. Granting permission or forgiveness is often seen as a way to maintain relationships.
Proverbs and Idioms: One relevant proverb is “許すことは強さの証” (ゆるすことはつよさのあかし, “Yurusu koto wa tsuyosa no akashi”), which translates to “To forgive is a sign of strength.” This highlights the cultural importance of forgiveness in interpersonal relationships.