1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “健” (ken) means “health” or “strength.” It is often associated with physical fitness and well-being.
2. Formation and Radical
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji “健” is a phonetic-ideographic character (形声文字). It combines the meaning of health with a phonetic component.
Radical: The radical for “健” is “亻” (the person radical), which suggests a connection to human qualities, particularly strength and health.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases:
- 健康 (kenkō) – health
- 健全 (kenzen) – sound, healthy
Example Sentences in Daily Conversation:
- 私は毎日運動して、健康を保っています。 (Watashi wa mainichi undō shite, kenkō o tamotteimasu.) – I exercise every day to maintain my health.
- 健全な食生活が大切です。 (Kenzen na shokuseikatsu ga taisetsu desu.) – A healthy diet is important.
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji:
- 強 (kyō) – strong; emphasizes physical strength rather than overall health.
- 元気 (genki) – lively; refers to being energetic and spirited.
Antonyms:
- 病 (byō) – illness; represents the opposite of health.
- 弱 (jaku) – weak; indicates a lack of strength or health.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Connection to Japanese Culture: The concept of “健” is deeply rooted in Japanese culture, where health and well-being are highly valued. Traditional practices such as martial arts and various forms of exercise emphasize the importance of maintaining a healthy body.
Proverbs and Idioms:
- 健康第一 (kenkō daiichi) – “Health comes first,” highlighting the importance of health in life.
- 元気があれば何でもできる (genki ga areba nandemo dekiru) – “If you have energy, you can do anything,” emphasizing the power of vitality.