1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji 建 (pronounced “ken” or “tate”) means “to build” or “to construct.” It is commonly used in contexts related to architecture, construction, and development.
2. Formation and Radical
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji 建 is a compound character that combines elements to convey its meaning. It consists of the radical for “to stand” (立) and the phonetic component (建) which suggests the action of building.
Radical: The radical of 建 is 立 (stand), which relates to the idea of something being upright or constructed.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases: Some frequently used words that include 建 are:
- 建物 (たてもん, tatemono) – building
- 建設 (けんせつ, kensetsu) – construction
- 建築 (けんちく, kenchiku) – architecture
Example Sentences in Daily Conversation:
- この建物は新しく建てられました。 (This building was newly constructed.)
- 彼は家を建てる計画をしています。 (He is planning to build a house.)
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji: A similar kanji is 造 (ぞう, zou), which also means “to create” or “to make,” but it often refers to the act of creating something from raw materials rather than constructing a structure.
Antonyms: An antonym of 建 is 壊 (こわす, kowasu), which means “to destroy” or “to break,” representing the opposite action of building.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Relation to Japanese Culture: The concept of building is significant in Japanese culture, where architecture often reflects harmony with nature. Traditional Japanese houses and temples are designed with an emphasis on balance and aesthetics.
Proverbs and Idioms: One common saying is 建前と本音 (たてまえとほんね, tatemae to honne), which refers to the difference between one’s public facade and true feelings, highlighting the importance of context in communication.