1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “高” (pronounced “kou” or “taka”) means “high” or “tall.” It is used to describe physical height, as well as metaphorical concepts such as high quality or elevated status.
2. Formation and Radical
The kanji “高” is a phonetic-ideographic character (形声文字), which means it combines a meaning component with a phonetic component. The left side of the character is the radical “高” itself, which relates to height, while the right side is a phonetic element that helps indicate its pronunciation.
The radical for “高” is also “高,” which signifies height or elevation.
3. Examples of Usage
Common words and phrases that include “高” are:
- 高い (たかい, takai) – high/tall
- 高級 (こうきゅう, koukyuu) – high class/quality
- 高齢 (こうれい, koureii) – elderly/high age
Example sentences in daily conversation:
- このビルはとても高いです。 (This building is very tall.)
- 彼は高級なレストランで働いています。 (He works at a high-class restaurant.)
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar kanji with related meanings include:
- 高尚 (こうしょう, koushou) – noble or refined, which emphasizes a high moral or intellectual quality.
- 高地 (こうち, kouchi) – highland, referring to elevated geographical areas.
Antonyms include:
- 低 (てい, tei) – low, which indicates a lower position or status.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
The kanji “高” is deeply rooted in Japanese culture, often associated with concepts of elevation and aspiration. In traditional Japanese architecture, “高” is used to describe tall structures like pagodas, which symbolize reaching towards the heavens.
Proverbs and idiomatic expressions that include “高” are:
- 高嶺の花 (たかねのはな, takane no hana) – literally “flower on a high peak,” referring to something unattainable or someone who is out of reach.