1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “哀” (ai) means “sorrow” or “grief.” It conveys a sense of deep sadness or mourning, often associated with loss or emotional pain.
2. Formation and Radical
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji “哀” is a phonetic-ideographic character (形声文字). It combines the radical for “speech” (口) with a phonetic component that suggests its pronunciation.
Radical: The radical of “哀” is “口” (kuchi), which means “mouth” and is often related to speech or expression.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases:
- 哀悼 (あいとう, aitō) – condolence
- 哀れ (あわれ, aware) – pity, sorrow
Example Sentences in Daily Conversation:
- 彼の死を聞いて、私は深い哀しみを感じた。
(I felt deep sorrow upon hearing of his death.) - 哀れな状況に心を痛める。
(I feel pain for the pitiful situation.)
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji:
- 悲 (ひ, hi) – sadness; while both “哀” and “悲” express sorrow, “悲” often refers to a more general sense of sadness.
Antonyms:
- 喜 (き, ki) – joy; this kanji represents happiness and is the opposite of sorrow.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Relation to Japanese Culture: The concept of “哀” is deeply embedded in Japanese culture, often reflected in literature, art, and traditional practices surrounding mourning and loss.
Proverbs and Idioms:
- 哀しみは人を強くする。
(Sorrow makes a person stronger.) - 哀れみは愛の一形態。
(Pity is a form of love.)