1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “鋭” (pronounced “ei” or “surudoi”) means “sharp” or “keen.” It is often used to describe something that has a sharp edge, such as a blade, or to refer to a sharp mind or keen insight.
2. Formation and Radical
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji “鋭” is a phono-semantic compound (形声文字), which means it combines both a phonetic and a semantic component. The left part, “金” (meaning “metal”), indicates that it relates to something made of metal, while the right part, “叡,” contributes to the pronunciation and adds a meaning related to sharpness or wisdom.
Radical: The radical of “鋭” is “金” (metal), which is commonly found in kanji related to metals or tools.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases:
- 鋭い刃 (surudoi ha) – sharp blade
- 鋭い洞察 (surudoi dōsatsu) – keen insight
Example Sentences in Daily Conversation:
- このナイフはとても鋭いです。 (Kono naifu wa totemo surudoi desu.) – This knife is very sharp.
- 彼は鋭い洞察力を持っています。 (Kare wa surudoi dōsatsuryoku o motteimasu.) – He has keen insight.
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji:
- 尖 (sen) – meaning “pointed” or “sharp,” but often refers to the shape rather than the quality of sharpness.
- 鋭利 (eiri) – meaning “sharp” or “keen,” often used in a more formal context.
Antonyms:
- 鈍 (don) – meaning “dull,” used to describe something that lacks sharpness.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Relation to Japanese Culture: The concept of sharpness is significant in Japanese culture, especially in the context of traditional crafts such as sword-making, where the sharpness of the blade is a symbol of quality and skill.
Proverbs and Idioms:
- 鋭い目を持つ (surudoi me o motsu) – to have sharp eyes, meaning to be observant or perceptive.