1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “湖” (pronounced “ko” in Japanese) means “lake.” It refers to a large body of water surrounded by land, typically freshwater.
2. Formation and Radical
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji “湖” is a compound character (会意文字) that combines elements to convey its meaning. It consists of the radical for water (氵) and the character “胡” which historically relates to a foreign or distant place.
Radical: The radical of “湖” is 氵, which is a variant of 水 (water), indicating that the character is related to water.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases:
- 湖畔 (こはん, kohan) – lakeside
- 湖水 (こすい, kosui) – lake water
Example Sentences in Daily Conversation:
- 「私たちは湖に行きます。」(We are going to the lake.)
- 「湖の周りを散歩するのが好きです。」(I enjoy walking around the lake.)
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji:
- 池 (いけ, ike) – pond; a smaller body of water compared to a lake.
- 海 (うみ, umi) – sea; a larger body of saltwater.
Antonyms:
- 山 (やま, yama) – mountain; representing land elevation, contrasting with the flatness of a lake.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Relation to Japanese Culture: Lakes are often depicted in Japanese art and literature, symbolizing tranquility and beauty. They are also popular destinations for recreation and reflection.
Proverbs and Idioms:
- 「湖の水は澄んでいる」(The lake’s water is clear) – used to describe clarity or purity in a situation.