1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “斤” (pronounced “kin”) primarily means “a unit of weight” equivalent to 600 grams in Japan. It is often used in the context of measuring food items, especially in cooking and grocery shopping.
2. Formation and Radical
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji “斤” is a phonetic-ideographic character (形声文字). It combines the meaning of a tool or instrument with a phonetic component, suggesting its use in measuring or cutting.
Radical: The radical for “斤” is “木” (tree), which relates to its original meaning connected to wooden tools used for cutting or measuring.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases:
- 斤量 (kinryou) – weight in jin
- 斤目 (kinme) – a unit of measurement
Example Sentences in Daily Conversation:
- この肉は一斤ですか？ (Is this meat one jin?)
- 野菜を一斤買いました。 (I bought one jin of vegetables.)
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji:
- ポンド (pound) – a different unit of weight used in Western countries.
- グラム (gram) – a metric unit of weight, where 1斤 equals 600 grams.
Antonyms:
- 軽 (karui) – meaning “light,” which contrasts with the weight implied by “斤.”
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Relation to Japanese Culture: The concept of “斤” is deeply rooted in traditional Japanese cooking and commerce, where precise measurements are essential for recipes and food preparation.
Proverbs and Idioms: While there are no specific proverbs that directly reference “斤,” the importance of measurement in cooking is often highlighted in Japanese culinary practices, emphasizing the precision and care taken in food preparation.