1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “金” (pronounced “kin” or “kane”) primarily means “gold” or “metal.” It symbolizes wealth, prosperity, and value in various contexts.
2. Formation and Radical
The kanji “金” is a pictogram, originally depicting a metal object. It belongs to the category of ideograms as well, representing the concept of metal or precious materials. The radical for “金” is also “金,” which is used in other kanji related to metal and wealth.
3. Examples of Usage
Common words and phrases that include “金” are:
- 金曜日 (kin’yōbi) – Friday
- お金 (okane) – money
- 金属 (kinzoku) – metal
Example sentence in daily conversation:
「私は毎月お金を貯めています。」(Watashi wa maitsuki okane o tameteimasu.) – “I save money every month.”
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar kanji with related meanings include:
- 銅 (dō) – copper, which is a type of metal but less valuable than gold.
- 銀 (gin) – silver, which is also a precious metal but has a different value and cultural significance.
Antonyms include:
- 土 (tsuchi) – earth or soil, representing something of lesser value compared to gold.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
The kanji “金” has significant ties to Japanese culture, often associated with wealth and prosperity. In traditional Japanese culture, gold is seen as a symbol of good fortune.
Proverbs and idiomatic expressions include:
- 金は天下の回り物 (Kin wa tenka no mawari mono) – “Money circulates in the world,” meaning that wealth comes and goes.
- 金の切れ目が縁の切れ目 (Kin no kireme ga en no kireme) – “When the money runs out, the relationship ends,” highlighting the importance of money in relationships.