1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “望” (pronounced “bou” or “nozomi”) primarily means “hope” or “wish.” It conveys a sense of longing or desire for something to happen in the future.
2. Formation and Radical
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji “望” is a compound character (会意文字) that combines the elements of “月” (moon) and “亡” (to perish). The moon often symbolizes beauty and desire, while “亡” adds a sense of longing for something that is lost or unattainable.
Radical: The radical of “望” is “月,” which is often associated with the meanings related to the moon and time.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases: Some frequently used words that include “望” are:
- 希望 (kibou) – hope
- 展望 (tenbou) – outlook or prospect
- 望遠鏡 (bouenkyou) – telescope
Example Sentences in Daily Conversation:
- 彼の成功を望んでいます。 (Kare no seikou o nozondeimasu.) – I hope for his success.
- 未来に対する望みを持っています。 (Mirai ni taisuru nozomi o motteimasu.) – I have hopes for the future.
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji: A similar kanji is “願” (gan), which also means “wish” or “request,” but it often implies a more earnest or formal desire.
Antonyms: An antonym of “望” could be “失望” (shitsubou), which means “disappointment,” indicating a lack of hope or a feeling of despair.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Relation to Japanese Culture: The concept of “望” is deeply embedded in Japanese culture, where hope and aspirations are often reflected in literature, art, and festivals.
Proverbs and Idioms: One common saying is “望みを持つ” (nozomi o motsu), which means “to hold onto hope,” emphasizing the importance of maintaining hope even in difficult times.