1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “宴” (pronounced “en”) means “banquet” or “feast.” It refers to a gathering where people come together to enjoy food and drink, often in a celebratory context.
2. Formation and Radical
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji “宴” is a combination of two components: the radical “宀” (meaning “roof” or “house”) and “亘” (which relates to the idea of extending or spreading). This suggests a gathering that takes place under a roof, emphasizing the communal aspect of dining.
Radical: The radical for “宴” is “宀,” which is commonly associated with buildings or structures, indicating that the event typically occurs indoors.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases: Some common words that include “宴” are “宴会” (enkai – banquet) and “祝宴” (shukuen – celebratory feast).
Example Sentences in Daily Conversation:
- 今週末、友達のために宴会を開きます。 (This weekend, I will host a banquet for my friends.)
- 結婚式の後に祝宴が行われます。 (A celebratory feast will be held after the wedding.)
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji: A similar kanji is “会” (kai), which means “meeting” or “gathering.” While “宴” specifically refers to a festive gathering centered around food and drink, “会” can refer to any type of meeting or assembly.
Opposite Kanji: An antonym could be “孤独” (kodoku), meaning “loneliness.” While “宴” signifies togetherness and celebration, “孤独” represents solitude and isolation.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Relation to Japanese Culture: In Japan, “宴” is an important aspect of social life, often associated with celebrations such as weddings, festivals, and seasonal events. These gatherings foster community bonds and cultural traditions.
Proverbs and Idioms: One common saying is “宴の後は静けさ” (Uta no ato wa shizukesa), which translates to “After the banquet, there is silence,” reflecting the idea that celebrations eventually come to an end, and one must return to everyday life.