1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “響” (hibiki) means “to resonate” or “to echo.” It conveys the idea of sound reverberating or having an impact, both literally and metaphorically.
2. Formation and Radicals
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji “響” is a phono-semantic compound (形声文字), which combines the meaning of sound with a phonetic component. The left part represents the concept of sound, while the right part contributes to its pronunciation.
Radical: The radical for “響” is “音” (on), which means “sound.” This radical is commonly found in kanji related to sound and music.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases: Some frequently used words that include “響” are:
- 響き (hibiki) – resonance
- 響く (hibiku) – to resonate
- 響き合う (hibikiau) – to resonate with each other
Example Sentences in Daily Conversation:
- この音楽は心に響く。 (Kono ongaku wa kokoro ni hibiku.) – This music resonates in my heart.
- 彼の言葉は私に深く響いた。 (Kare no kotoba wa watashi ni fukaku hibita.) – His words deeply resonated with me.
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji: A similar kanji is “音” (on), which means “sound.” While “音” refers specifically to sound itself, “響” emphasizes the action of sound resonating or echoing.
Antonyms: An antonym for “響” could be “消える” (kieru), which means “to disappear.” This contrasts with the idea of sound resonating or echoing.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Relation to Japanese Culture: The concept of resonance is significant in Japanese culture, often associated with music, nature, and emotional connections. The idea of sound echoing can symbolize harmony and unity.
Proverbs and Idioms: One common saying is “響き合う心” (hibikiau kokoro), which means “hearts that resonate with each other,” emphasizing the importance of emotional connections and understanding in relationships.