1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “庸” (yō) generally means “ordinary” or “mediocre.” It is often used to describe something that is common or lacks special qualities.
2. Formation and Radical
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji “庸” is a phonetic-ideographic character (形声文字). It combines the radical for “building” (土) with a phonetic component that suggests its pronunciation.
Radical: The radical of “庸” is “土” (tsuchi), which means “earth” or “ground.” This radical often relates to structures or places.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases: “庸人” (yōnin) means “mediocre person,” and “庸俗” (yōzoku) means “vulgar” or “commonplace.”
Example Sentence in Daily Conversation: “彼は庸な仕事をしている。” (Kare wa yō na shigoto o shite iru.) translates to “He is doing mediocre work.”
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji: “平凡” (heibon) also means “ordinary,” but it can carry a slightly more neutral connotation compared to “庸,” which often implies a lack of quality.
Opposite Kanji: “優れた” (sugureta) means “excellent” or “superior,” representing the opposite of mediocrity.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Relation to Japanese Culture: The concept of “庸” is often reflected in Japanese culture, where humility and modesty are valued. Being “ordinary” can sometimes be seen as a virtue.
Proverbs and Idioms: An example of a related saying is “庸才は千人に一人” (yōsai wa sen-nin ni hitori), which means “a mediocre talent is one in a thousand,” emphasizing the rarity of true talent.