1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “敷” (shiki) generally means “to lay out” or “to spread.” It is often used in contexts where something is being placed or arranged on a surface, such as laying out a mat or spreading a blanket.
2. Formation and Radical
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji “敷” is a phono-semantic compound (形声文字), which means it combines a meaning component and a phonetic component. The left part “土” (meaning “earth” or “ground”) indicates the context of laying something on a surface, while the right part “敷” provides the pronunciation.
Radical: The radical of “敷” is “土” (tsuchi), which relates to earth or ground, emphasizing its connection to surfaces.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases: Some frequently used words that include “敷” are:
- 敷物 (shikimono) – mat or carpet
- 敷地 (shikichi) – site or premises
Example Sentences in Daily Conversation:
- 「公園でピクニックをするために、シートを敷きました。」
(I laid out a sheet for a picnic in the park.) - 「新しい敷物を買ったので、部屋を模様替えしました。」
(I bought a new mat, so I redecorated the room.)
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji: A similar kanji is “設” (setsu), which means “to set up” or “to establish.” While both involve arranging or placing, “設” often refers to setting up structures or systems rather than simply laying something out.
Antonyms: An antonym of “敷” could be “撤” (tetsu), which means “to remove” or “to take away,” indicating the opposite action of laying something down.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Connection to Japanese Culture: The concept of “敷” is significant in Japanese culture, especially in traditional practices such as tea ceremonies, where mats are laid out for guests. It reflects the importance of arrangement and presentation in Japanese aesthetics.
Proverbs and Idioms: One common expression is “敷居が高い” (shikii ga takai), which means “the threshold is high,” referring to a situation that feels intimidating or difficult to approach, often due to social expectations.