1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji 邪 (ja) generally means “evil,” “wicked,” or “wrong.” It is often used to describe something that is morally or ethically incorrect.
2. Formation and Radical
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji 邪 is a phonetic-ideographic character (形声文字). It combines the radical for “evil” (邪) with a phonetic component that suggests its pronunciation.
Radical: The radical for 邪 is 邪 itself, which is associated with negative or immoral connotations.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases: Some common words that include 邪 are 邪教 (jakyou – “cult”) and 邪念 (janen – “evil thought”).
Example Sentences in Daily Conversation:
- 彼は邪な考えを持っている。 (Kare wa jana kangae o motte iru.) – “He has evil thoughts.”
- その邪教からは離れた方がいい。 (Sono jakyou kara wa hanareta hou ga ii.) – “It’s better to stay away from that cult.”
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji: A similar kanji is 悪 (aku), which also means “evil” but can refer to a broader range of negative qualities, including bad behavior or actions.
Opposite Kanji: The opposite kanji is 善 (zen), which means “good” or “virtuous.”
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Relation to Japanese Culture: The concept of 邪 is significant in Japanese culture, often associated with superstitions and folklore about evil spirits or malevolent forces.
Proverbs and Idioms: An example of a proverb is 邪を払う (ja o harau), which means “to ward off evil,” reflecting the cultural importance of protecting oneself from negative influences.