1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “了” (ryou) generally means “to finish” or “to complete.” It indicates the completion of an action or state, often used in various contexts to signify that something has come to an end.
2. Origin and Radical
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji “了” is classified as a phonetic-ideographic character (形声文字). It combines a phonetic component with a meaning component, suggesting both sound and meaning.
Radical: The radical for “了” is “了” itself, which is often associated with completion or finality.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases: Some frequently used words that include “了” are:
- 終了 (shūryō) – end, conclusion
- 了解 (ryōkai) – understanding, comprehension
Example Sentences in Daily Conversation:
- 仕事が終了しました。 (Shigoto ga shūryō shimashita.) – The work has been completed.
- そのことを了解しました。 (Sono koto o ryōkai shimashita.) – I understand that matter.
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji: A kanji with a similar meaning is “完” (kan), which also means “complete” but often implies a more thorough or perfect completion.
Opposite Kanji: An antonym for “了” is “未” (mi), which means “not yet” or “unfinished,” indicating that something is still in progress.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Relation to Japanese Culture: The kanji “了” is often used in formal contexts, such as in legal documents or official announcements, to signify the conclusion of matters.
Proverbs and Idioms: One common idiom that includes “了” is “一件落着” (ikken raku chaku), which means “a matter has been settled,” emphasizing the completion of a task or issue.