1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “鉱” (kō) refers to minerals or ores, particularly those that are mined for metals. It signifies substances that are extracted from the earth for various industrial uses.
2. Formation and Radical
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji “鉱” is a phonetic-ideographic character (形声文字). It combines the radical for metal (金) with the phonetic component “コウ” (kō), which helps indicate its pronunciation.
Radical: The radical of “鉱” is 金 (metal), which is commonly associated with metals and minerals in various kanji.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases: Some frequently used words that include “鉱” are:
- 鉱山 (こうざん, kōzan) – mine
- 鉱物 (こうぶつ, kōbutsu) – mineral
- 鉱石 (こうせき, kōseki) – ore
Example Sentences in Daily Conversation:
- 「この地域には多くの鉱山があります。」(Kono chiiki ni wa ōku no kōzan ga arimasu.) – “There are many mines in this area.”
- 「鉱物の研究はとても興味深いです。」(Kōbutsu no kenkyū wa totemo kyōmi-bukai desu.) – “Research on minerals is very interesting.”
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji: A kanji with a similar meaning is “石” (ishi), which means stone. However, “石” refers more broadly to stones and rocks, while “鉱” specifically pertains to minerals and ores.
Opposite Kanji: An antonym could be “土” (tsuchi), which means soil or earth, as it refers to the ground rather than the valuable minerals extracted from it.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Relation to Japanese Culture: The concept of mining and minerals has been significant in Japan’s history, especially during the Edo period when mining became a major industry.
Proverbs and Idioms: One relevant proverb is “石の上にも三年” (Ishi no ue ni mo sannen), which means “Perseverance prevails,” emphasizing the value of patience, much like the long process of mining and extracting minerals.