1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “屈” (kutsu) generally means “to bend,” “to yield,” or “to submit.” It conveys the idea of bending or flexing, both in a physical and metaphorical sense.
2. Formation and Radical
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji “屈” is a compound character (会意文字) that combines elements to convey its meaning. It consists of the radical “山” (mountain) at the bottom, which suggests a physical form, and “屮” (sprout) at the top, indicating growth or bending.
Radical: The radical for “屈” is “山,” which relates to mountains and hills, often symbolizing stability and strength.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases: Some frequently used words that include “屈” are:
- 屈服 (kukyō) – yielding, submission
- 屈折 (kusseki) – bending, refraction
Example Sentences in Daily Conversation:
- 彼は屈服しない人です。 (Kare wa kukyō shinai hito desu.) – He is a person who does not yield.
- 光が屈折する。 (Hikari ga kusseki suru.) – Light bends (or refracts).
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji: A similar kanji is “曲” (kyoku), which also means “to bend” but often refers to curves or music. The difference lies in the context; “屈” implies yielding or submission, while “曲” focuses more on the shape or form.
Opposite Kanji: An antonym is “直” (choku), meaning “straight” or “direct,” which conveys the opposite idea of bending or yielding.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Relation to Japanese Culture: The concept of “屈” is often associated with humility and the ability to yield in social situations, reflecting a cultural value in Japan that emphasizes harmony and cooperation.
Proverbs and Idioms: One relevant proverb is “屈することは強さの一部である” (Kusuru koto wa tsuyosa no ichibu de aru), which translates to “Yielding is a part of strength,” highlighting the positive aspect of flexibility and adaptability in life.