1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji 情 (jou) primarily means “emotion,” “feeling,” or “sentiment.” It represents the inner feelings and emotional states of individuals, often associated with love, compassion, and empathy.
2. Formation and Radical
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji 情 is a compound character, which means it is formed by combining different elements. It consists of the radical 忄 (the heart radical), which relates to emotions, and the character 青 (meaning “blue” or “green”), which can symbolize a sense of depth or complexity in feelings.
Radical: The radical of 情 is 忄, indicating that it is related to emotions and feelings.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases: Some frequently used words that include 情 are:
- 情熱 (jounetsu) – passion
- 友情 (yuujou) – friendship
- 情況 (joukyou) – situation
Example Sentences in Daily Conversation:
- 彼は情熱を持って仕事に取り組んでいます。
(He approaches his work with passion.) - 私たちの友情はとても大切です。
(Our friendship is very important.)
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji: A kanji with a similar meaning is 感情 (kanjou), which means “emotion” but often refers to a broader range of feelings, including both positive and negative emotions.
Opposite Kanji: An antonym of 情 could be 無情 (mujou), meaning “heartless” or “emotionless,” which describes a lack of feelings or compassion.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Relation to Japanese Culture: The concept of 情 is deeply embedded in Japanese culture, where emotions and interpersonal relationships are highly valued. It often appears in literature, art, and social interactions.
Proverbs and Idioms: One common saying is 情けは人の為ならず (nasake wa hito no tame narazu), which translates to “Kindness is not for others’ sake,” emphasizing that showing compassion ultimately benefits oneself as well.