1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “扱” (pronounced “atsukau”) means “to handle,” “to treat,” or “to deal with.” It conveys the idea of managing or manipulating something, whether it be a physical object or an abstract concept.
2. Formation and Radical
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji “扱” is a combination of two components: the left part “扌” (the hand radical) and the right part “卓” (which can mean “table” or “excellent”). This combination suggests the action of using one’s hands to manage or handle something.
Radical: The radical of “扱” is “扌,” which is related to actions performed with the hands, emphasizing the physical aspect of handling.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases: Some frequently used words that include “扱” are:
- 扱い (あつかい, atsukai) – handling, treatment
- 扱う (あつかう, atsukau) – to handle, to deal with
Example Sentences in Daily Conversation:
- この機械の扱いは難しいです。 (このきかいのあつかいはむずかしいです。) – Handling this machine is difficult.
- 彼は人々の感情を上手に扱います。 (かれはひとびとのかんじょうをじょうずにあつかいます。) – He handles people’s emotions well.
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji: A similar kanji is “処” (しょ, sho), which means “to deal with” or “to dispose of.” While both kanji convey the idea of handling, “処” often implies a more formal or administrative context.
Opposite Kanji: An antonym is “放” (ほう, hō), which means “to release” or “to let go.” This contrasts with “扱,” as it suggests a lack of control or management.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Relation to Japanese Culture: The concept of “扱” is significant in Japanese culture, where the careful handling of objects and relationships is highly valued. This is evident in practices such as tea ceremonies and martial arts, where precision and respect in handling are essential.
Proverbs and Idioms: One relevant proverb is “扱いを間違える” (あつかいをまちがえる, atsukai o machigaeru), which means “to mishandle” or “to treat improperly.” This reflects the importance of proper handling in various aspects of life.