1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji 遠 (pronounced “en” or “tooi”) means “far” or “distant.” It is used to describe physical distance as well as metaphorical distances, such as emotional or temporal separation.
2. Formation and Radical
The kanji 遠 is a phonetic-ideographic character (形声文字) that combines the meaning of distance with a phonetic component. The left part, 辶 (the radical for “movement” or “road”), suggests travel or movement, while the right part, 袁, provides the pronunciation.
The radical for 遠 is 辶, which is commonly associated with movement or paths.
3. Examples of Usage
Common words and phrases that include 遠 are:
- 遠足 (ensoku) – “excursion” or “field trip”
- 遠い (tooi) – “far” or “distant”
Example sentences in daily conversation:
- この場所はとても遠いです。 (Kono basho wa totemo tooi desu.) – “This place is very far away.”
- 私たちは遠足に行きます。 (Watashitachi wa ensoku ni ikimasu.) – “We are going on an excursion.”
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar kanji with related meanings include:
- 遥 (haruka) – “distant” or “remote,” often used in a more poetic or emotional context.
Antonyms include:
- 近 (kin) – “near” or “close.”
5. Cultural and Historical Background
The kanji 遠 is often associated with Japanese culture in the context of travel and exploration. It appears in various proverbs and idiomatic expressions, such as:
- 遠くの親戚より近くの他人 (Tooku no shinseki yori chikaku no tanin) – “Better a close stranger than a distant relative,” emphasizing the value of nearby relationships over distant ones.
This reflects the cultural importance of community and proximity in Japanese society.