1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “滋” (pronounced “ji” or “shiba”) generally means “to nourish” or “to enrich.” It conveys the idea of providing sustenance or enhancing something, often in a metaphorical sense.
2. Formation and Radical
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji “滋” is a phonetic-ideographic character (形声文字). It combines the meaning of nourishment with a phonetic component that suggests its pronunciation.
Radical: The radical for “滋” is “氵” (water), which is often associated with fluidity and nourishment, reflecting the kanji’s meaning of enrichment.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases: Some frequently used words that include “滋” are “滋養” (jiyou – nourishment) and “滋味” (jimi – rich flavor).
Example Sentences in Daily Conversation:
- この料理はとても滋味がある。 (This dish is very rich in flavor.)
- 彼女は子供たちに滋養を与えるために、健康的な食事を作る。 (She prepares healthy meals to nourish the children.)
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji: A similar kanji is “養” (you), which also means “to nurture” but often emphasizes the aspect of raising or fostering growth.
Opposite Kanji: An antonym is “枯” (ko), which means “to wither” or “to dry up,” representing the opposite of nourishment and enrichment.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Relation to Japanese Culture: The concept of nourishment is deeply embedded in Japanese culture, where food and health are highly valued. The kanji “滋” reflects this cultural significance.
Proverbs and Idioms: One relevant proverb is “滋味深い” (jimi fukai), which means “deeply flavorful,” emphasizing the importance of rich and nourishing experiences in life.