1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “芸” (gei) primarily means “art” or “skill.” It represents the concept of artistic expression and mastery in various forms, such as music, dance, and crafts.
2. Formation and Radical
The kanji “芸” is a compound character (会意文字) that combines elements to convey its meaning. It consists of the radical “艹” (grass) at the top, which is often associated with nature and growth, and the character “戈” (spear) at the bottom, which can symbolize action or skill.
The radical “艹” indicates that the character is related to something that can grow or flourish, often in the context of artistic endeavors.
3. Examples of Usage
Common words and phrases that include “芸” are:
- 芸術 (げいじゅつ, geijutsu) – “art” or “fine arts”
- 芸人 (げいにん, geinin) – “performer” or “entertainer”
Example sentence in daily conversation:
「彼は素晴らしい芸術家です。」(かれはすばらしいげいじゅつかです。) – “He is a wonderful artist.”
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar kanji with related meanings include:
- 技 (ぎ, gi) – “skill” or “technique,” which emphasizes the technical aspect of a craft.
- 美 (び, bi) – “beauty,” which focuses more on aesthetic qualities.
Antonyms include:
- 無芸 (むげい, mugei) – “lack of skill” or “unartistic,” indicating a deficiency in artistic ability.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
The kanji “芸” is deeply rooted in Japanese culture, where art and performance play significant roles in society. Traditional arts such as Noh, Kabuki, and Ikebana (flower arranging) are all forms of “芸.”
Proverbs and idiomatic expressions related to “芸” include:
- 「芸は身を助ける」(げいはみをたすける) – “Art helps one survive,” emphasizing the importance of skill in overcoming challenges.