1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “鏡” (pronounced “kyou” or “kagami”) means “mirror.” It refers to a reflective surface that allows one to see their own image, and it can also symbolize self-reflection or introspection.
2. Formation and Radical
The kanji “鏡” is a compound character, which means it is formed by combining different elements. It is classified as a 形声文字 (phonetic-ideographic character), where the left part “金” (meaning “metal”) indicates the material, and the right part “京” (which contributes to the pronunciation) is a phonetic component.
The radical of “鏡” is 金 (metal), which is commonly associated with objects made of metal or related to metalwork.
3. Examples of Usage
Common words and phrases that include “鏡” are:
- 鏡台 (きょうだい, “kyoudai”) – dressing table with a mirror
- 鏡面 (きょうめん, “kyoumen”) – mirror surface
Example sentences in daily conversation:
- 「鏡を見て、自分の髪を整えました。」(I looked in the mirror and fixed my hair.)
- 「この鏡はとてもきれいです。」(This mirror is very beautiful.)
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar kanji with related meanings include:
- 映 (えい, “ei”) – to reflect, as in a reflection in water.
- 反射 (はんしゃ, “hansha”) – reflection, often used in a scientific context.
Antonyms include:
- 暗 (あん, “an”) – dark, which contrasts with the clarity and brightness associated with a mirror.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
In Japanese culture, mirrors hold significant meaning. They are often associated with purity and truth, and in Shinto, mirrors are considered sacred objects representing the divine.
Proverbs and idiomatic expressions related to mirrors include:
- 「鏡の中の自分を見つめる」(To gaze at oneself in the mirror) – often used to imply self-reflection or self-examination.