1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “悪” (aku) means “evil” or “bad.” It is used to describe something that is morally wrong or harmful. In various contexts, it can refer to negative actions, intentions, or qualities.
2. Formation and Radicals
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji “悪” is a compound character (会意文字) that combines elements to convey its meaning. It consists of the radical “心” (kokoro), which means “heart” or “mind,” and the character “悪” (aku), which adds the notion of negativity or badness.
Radical: The radical of “悪” is “心” (kokoro), indicating that the concept of badness is related to emotions or intentions.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases: Some frequently used words that include “悪” are:
- 悪い (warui) – bad
- 悪化 (akka) – deterioration
- 悪戯 (itazura) – mischief
Example Sentences in Daily Conversation:
- 彼は悪いことをした。 (Kare wa warui koto o shita.) – He did something bad.
- この状況は悪化している。 (Kono jōkyō wa akka shite iru.) – This situation is deteriorating.
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji: A similar kanji is “邪” (ja), which also means “evil” but often refers to something that is morally corrupt or wicked. The difference lies in the nuance; “悪” is more general, while “邪” has a stronger connotation of malevolence.
Opposite Kanji: The opposite of “悪” is “善” (zen), which means “good” or “virtuous.” This kanji represents positive qualities and moral righteousness.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Relation to Japanese Culture: In Japanese culture, the concept of “悪” is often explored in literature, folklore, and religious teachings. It serves as a reminder of the moral choices individuals face.
Proverbs and Idioms: One common proverb is “悪事千里を走る” (Akuji senri o hashiru), which translates to “Evil deeds run a thousand miles.” This means that bad actions are often quickly discovered, emphasizing the importance of integrity.