1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “止” (pronounced “shi” or “to”) means “to stop” or “to halt.” It conveys the idea of ceasing movement or action.
2. Formation and Radical
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji “止” is a pictogram that originally depicted a foot in a stopping position, symbolizing the act of stopping. It is classified as a pictographic character.
Radical: The radical for “止” is also “止,” which is used in various kanji related to stopping or halting actions.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases: Some frequently used words that include “止” are:
- 停止 (ていし, teishi) – “stop” or “halt”
- 止まる (とまる, tomaru) – “to stop” (intransitive)
- 止める (とめる, tomeru) – “to stop” (transitive)
Example Sentences in Daily Conversation:
- 車が止まりました。 (くるまがとまりました, Kuruma ga tomarimashita.) – “The car has stopped.”
- ここで止めてください。 (ここでとめてください, Koko de tome te kudasai.) – “Please stop here.”
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji: A similar kanji is “停” (てい, tei), which also means “to stop” but is often used in more formal contexts, such as in “停止” (teishi).
Antonyms: An antonym of “止” is “動” (どう, dou), which means “to move” or “to act.”
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Relation to Japanese Culture: The concept of stopping is significant in various aspects of Japanese culture, including mindfulness and the importance of taking breaks in daily life.
Proverbs and Idioms: One common saying is “止まるが安し” (とまるがやすし, tomaru ga yasushi), which means “stopping is safe,” emphasizing the value of caution and reflection before taking action.