1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “既” (ki) generally means “already” or “previously.” It indicates that something has been completed or has occurred before the present moment.
2. Formation and Radical
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji “既” is classified as a compound ideograph (会意文字), which combines elements to convey a specific meaning. It is composed of the radical “夕” (evening) and the character “己” (self), suggesting a sense of time and completion.
Radical: The radical for “既” is “夕,” which often relates to time or the end of the day.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases: Some frequently used words that include “既” are “既婚” (kikon – married) and “既知” (kichi – known).
Example Sentences in Daily Conversation:
- 彼は既にそのことを知っています。 (Kare wa sude ni sono koto o shitteimasu.) – He already knows about that.
- 私たちは既に計画を立てました。 (Watashitachi wa sude ni keikaku o tatemashita.) – We have already made plans.
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji: A similar kanji is “済” (sai), which means “to finish” or “to complete,” but it emphasizes the action of completing something rather than the state of having already done it.
Opposite Kanji: An antonym is “未” (mi), which means “not yet,” indicating that something has not occurred or been completed.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Relation to Japanese Culture: The kanji “既” is often used in formal contexts, such as legal documents or official announcements, to indicate that something has been established or confirmed.
Proverbs and Idioms: While there are no widely known proverbs specifically featuring “既,” it is often used in phrases that convey the idea of completion or prior knowledge, reflecting the importance of time and history in Japanese culture.