1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “件” (ken) generally means “matter,” “case,” or “item.” It is often used to refer to specific topics or issues in various contexts, such as legal matters or business transactions.
2. Origin and Radical
The kanji “件” is classified as a phonetic-ideographic character (形声文字). It combines the radical “木” (tree) and the phonetic component “件,” which contributes to its pronunciation. The character originally depicted a wooden object, symbolizing a matter or item that is tangible.
3. Examples of Usage
Common words and phrases that include “件” are:
- 案件 (あんけん, anken) – case, matter
- 件名 (けんめい, kenmei) – subject, title
Example sentences in daily conversation:
- この件について話しましょう。 (このけんについてはなしましょう。) – Let’s talk about this matter.
- その件は解決しましたか？ (そのけんはかいけつしましたか？) – Has that case been resolved?
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar kanji with related meanings include:
- 事 (こと, koto) – thing, matter (more general and abstract)
- 問題 (もんだい, mondai) – problem, issue (implies a challenge)
Antonyms include:
- 無 (む, mu) – nothing, absence (indicates a lack of matter or case)
5. Cultural and Historical Background
The kanji “件” is often used in Japanese culture, particularly in legal and business contexts. It reflects the importance of documentation and formal matters in society. Additionally, it appears in various proverbs and idiomatic expressions, such as:
- 一件落着 (いっけんらくちゃく, ikken rakuchaku) – “one matter settled,” indicating the resolution of an issue.
This highlights the significance of resolving matters efficiently in Japanese culture.