1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “栄” (pronounced “ei” or “sakae”) means “glory,” “prosperity,” or “to flourish.” It conveys a sense of success and thriving, often associated with achievements and positive growth.
2. Formation and Radical
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji “栄” is a compound character (会意文字) that combines elements to convey its meaning. It consists of the radical for “tree” (木) and the phonetic component “影” (which means “shadow” or “reflection”). This combination suggests the idea of a tree flourishing and casting a shadow, symbolizing prosperity.
Radical: The radical of “栄” is “木” (tree), which is often associated with growth and life.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases: Some frequently used words that include “栄” are:
- 栄光 (えいこう, eikou) – glory
- 栄える (さかえる, sakaeru) – to prosper, to flourish
- 栄養 (えいよう, eiyou) – nutrition
Example Sentences in Daily Conversation:
- 彼は栄光を手に入れた。 (かれはえいこうをてにいれた。) – He has achieved glory.
- この町は最近栄えている。 (このまちはさいきんさかえている。) – This town has been flourishing recently.
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji: A similar kanji is “繁” (はん, han), which also means “prosperous” but emphasizes abundance and multiplicity, while “栄” focuses more on glory and success.
Antonyms: An antonym of “栄” is “衰” (すい, sui), which means “decline” or “deterioration,” representing the opposite of flourishing and prosperity.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Connection to Japanese Culture: The concept of “栄” is deeply embedded in Japanese culture, often associated with success in various fields, including business, sports, and personal achievements. It reflects the value placed on hard work and the rewards that come from it.
Proverbs and Idioms: One common saying is “栄枯盛衰” (えいこせいすい, eikoseisui), which means “the rise and fall of fortunes,” highlighting the transient nature of success and prosperity in life.