1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “走” (pronounced “hashiru”) means “to run” or “to move quickly.” It conveys the idea of speed and motion, often associated with physical activity.
2. Formation and Radical
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji “走” is a pictogram that represents a person running. It visually depicts the action of running, emphasizing movement.
Radical: The radical for “走” is “走” itself, which is used in other kanji related to movement and speed.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases:
- 走る (hashiru) – to run
- 走行 (sōkō) – running (of a vehicle)
- 速走 (sokushō) – fast running
Example Sentences in Daily Conversation:
- 毎朝公園で走ります。 (Maiasa kōen de hashirimasu.) – I run in the park every morning.
- 彼は速く走ることができます。 (Kare wa hayaku hashiru koto ga dekimasu.) – He can run fast.
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji:
- 駆 (ku) – to run or gallop, often used in the context of horses.
- 進 (shin) – to advance or proceed, which implies movement but not necessarily running.
Antonyms:
- 止 (shi) – to stop, which is the opposite of running or moving.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Relation to Japanese Culture: The concept of running is significant in Japanese culture, often associated with sports, festivals, and traditional events like marathons.
Proverbs and Idioms:
- 走り出す (hashiridasu) – to start running, often used metaphorically to mean starting a new endeavor.
- 走ることは人生の一部 (hashiru koto wa jinsei no ichibu) – running is a part of life, emphasizing the importance of movement and progress.