1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “季” (ki) means “season.” It is used to refer to the four distinct periods of the year: spring, summer, autumn, and winter.
2. Formation and Radical
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji “季” is a compound character, which means it is formed by combining different elements. It is classified as a phonetic-ideographic character, where the left part suggests the meaning related to time or season, while the right part provides the phonetic sound.
Radical: The radical of “季” is “禾” (he), which means “grain” or “rice plant.” This relates to the agricultural cycles that are closely tied to the seasons.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases:
- 四季 (shiki) – four seasons
- 季節 (kisetsu) – season
- 季刊 (kikan) – quarterly publication
Example Sentences in Daily Conversation:
- 春は新しい季節の始まりです。 (Haru wa atarashii kisetsu no hajimari desu.) – Spring is the beginning of a new season.
- 秋の季節は美しい紅葉が見られます。 (Aki no kisetsu wa utsukushii kouyou ga mirarimasu.) – The autumn season offers beautiful foliage.
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji:
- 時 (ji) – time; while “季” refers specifically to seasons, “時” is a broader term for time.
- 年 (nen) – year; “年” refers to a year as a whole, whereas “季” focuses on the seasonal divisions within a year.
Antonyms:
- 無季 (muki) – without seasons; this term refers to a state or condition that lacks seasonal changes.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Relation to Japanese Culture: The concept of seasons is deeply embedded in Japanese culture, influencing art, literature, and festivals. Each season is celebrated with specific customs and foods.
Proverbs and Idioms:
- 「春夏秋冬」 (shunkashuutou) – literally “spring, summer, autumn, winter,” used to refer to the passage of time and the cyclical nature of life.
- 「季節の変わり目」 (kisetsu no kawarime) – the change of seasons, often used to describe transitions in life or circumstances.