1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “閲” (etsu) means “to read” or “to examine.” It is often associated with the act of reviewing or going through written material, such as documents or books.
2. Formation and Radical
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji “閲” is a phonetic compound (形声文字), which combines the meaning of “to examine” with a phonetic component. The left part, “見” (to see), suggests the act of looking, while the right part, “月,” serves as a phonetic indicator.
Radical: The radical of “閲” is “見” (to see), which is commonly associated with vision and observation.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases:
- 閲覧 (etsuran) – browsing or viewing (e.g., web pages)
- 閲読 (etsudoku) – reading or perusal
Example Sentences in Daily Conversation:
- この書類を閲覧してください。 (Please review this document.)
- 彼は毎日新聞を閲読しています。 (He reads the newspaper every day.)
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji:
- 読 (doku) – to read; focuses more on the act of reading rather than examining.
- 視 (shi) – to see; emphasizes the act of seeing rather than reading.
Antonyms:
- 無視 (mushi) – to ignore; the opposite of examining or paying attention.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Relation to Japanese Culture: The kanji “閲” is often used in formal contexts, such as in legal documents or academic settings, where careful examination is required.
Proverbs and Idioms: While there are no specific proverbs that prominently feature “閲,” the concept of careful reading and examination is valued in Japanese culture, reflecting the importance of diligence and attention to detail.