1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “険” (ken) primarily means “steep,” “dangerous,” or “rugged.” It is often used to describe challenging terrains or situations that require caution.
2. Formation and Radical
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji “険” is a phono-semantic compound (形声文字), which combines a semantic component that suggests meaning and a phonetic component that suggests pronunciation. The left part, “山” (mountain), indicates a connection to steepness or ruggedness, while the right part, “険” (ken), provides the sound.
Radical: The radical of “険” is “山” (mountain), which is commonly associated with geographical features and elevation.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases:
- 険しい (けわしい, kewashii) – steep, rugged
- 険悪 (けんあく, ken’aku) – hostile, severe
Example Sentences in Daily Conversation:
- この山はとても険しいです。 (このやまはとてもけわしいです。) – This mountain is very steep.
- 彼らの関係は険悪になってしまった。 (かれらのかんけいはけんあくになってしまった。) – Their relationship has become hostile.
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji:
- 難 (なん, nan) – difficult; while both “険” and “難” imply challenges, “険” specifically refers to steepness or danger, whereas “難” refers more broadly to difficulty.
Antonyms:
- 平 (へい, hei) – flat; this kanji represents the opposite of steepness, indicating a level or smooth surface.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Connection to Japanese Culture: The concept of “険” is often reflected in traditional Japanese landscapes, where mountains and rugged terrains play a significant role in art and literature.
Proverbs and Idioms:
- 険しい道を行く (けわしいみちをいく) – to take a difficult path; this phrase emphasizes the idea of facing challenges head-on.