1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “遺” (i) generally means “to leave behind” or “to bequeath.” It is often used in contexts related to inheritance, legacy, or something that is passed down from one generation to another.
2. Formation and Radical
The kanji “遺” is a compound character that consists of two parts: the radical “辶” (which relates to movement or walking) and the character “衣” (which means clothing). This combination suggests the idea of leaving something behind as one moves away.
The radical “辶” indicates that the action involves movement, while “衣” can symbolize what is left behind, such as clothing or possessions.
3. Examples of Usage
Common words and phrases that include “遺” are:
- 遺産 (isan) – inheritance
- 遺族 (izoku) – bereaved family
- 遺言 (yigon) – will or testament
Example sentence in daily conversation:
「彼は遺産を遺しました。」(Kare wa isan o nokoshimashita.) – “He left behind an inheritance.”
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar kanji with related meanings include:
- 残 (zan) – to remain, which emphasizes what is left over rather than what is intentionally bequeathed.
Antonyms include:
- 受 (ju) – to receive, which indicates taking something rather than leaving it behind.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
The kanji “遺” has significant cultural relevance in Japan, particularly in the context of family and inheritance. It reflects the importance of legacy and the responsibilities that come with it.
Proverbs and idiomatic expressions that include “遺” often emphasize the value of what is passed down, such as:
- 「遺志を継ぐ」(ishi o tsugu) – “to carry on someone’s will,” highlighting the importance of honoring the intentions of those who came before.