1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “銃” (juu) means “gun” or “firearm.” It refers to a weapon that uses gunpowder or other explosive materials to launch projectiles.
2. Origin and Radicals
The kanji “銃” is a phonetic compound (形声文字), which combines the radical for metal (金) with the phonetic component “重” (juu), which suggests weight or heaviness. The radical indicates that the character is related to metal or weapons.
The radical is 金, which signifies metal, reflecting the material from which guns are made.
3. Examples of Usage
Common words and phrases that include “銃” are:
- 銃器 (じゅうき, juuki) – firearms
- 銃撃 (じゅうげき, juugeki) – gunfire
Example sentence in daily conversation:
「彼は銃を持っている。」 (かれはじゅうをもっている。) – “He has a gun.”
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar kanji with related meanings include:
- 弾 (だん, dan) – bullet, which refers specifically to the projectile used in a gun.
Antonyms include:
- 平和 (へいわ, heiwa) – peace, which represents the absence of violence or conflict.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
The kanji “銃” is significant in Japanese culture, especially in the context of historical warfare and modern law enforcement. Firearms have played a role in Japan’s history, particularly during the Edo period when they were introduced from Europe.
Proverbs and idiomatic expressions related to “銃” include:
- 「銃を持つ者は責任を持つべきだ。」 – “Those who carry a gun should bear responsibility.” This reflects the idea that with power comes responsibility.