1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji 柔 (pronounced “ju” or “yawara”) means “soft” or “gentle.” It conveys the idea of flexibility, tenderness, and adaptability, often in contrast to hardness or rigidity.
2. Formation and Radical
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji 柔 is a phono-semantic compound (形声文字), which means it combines a phonetic component with a semantic component. The left part, 弓 (bow), suggests a connection to bending or flexibility, while the right part, 柔, indicates the sound.
Radical: The radical for 柔 is 弓, which relates to archery and bending, reinforcing the concept of softness and flexibility.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases: Some frequently used words that include 柔 are:
- 柔道 (judo) – a martial art that emphasizes flexibility and technique.
- 柔らかい (yawarakai) – meaning “soft” or “tender.”
Example Sentences in Daily Conversation:
- このパンはとても柔らかいです。 (This bread is very soft.)
- 彼は柔道を習っています。 (He is learning judo.)
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji: A kanji with a similar meaning is 軟 (nan), which also means “soft” but can imply a lack of strength or firmness.
Opposite Kanji: The antonym of 柔 is 硬 (kō), meaning “hard” or “stiff,” representing rigidity and inflexibility.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Connection to Japanese Culture: The concept of 柔 is deeply embedded in Japanese culture, particularly in martial arts like judo and aikido, where practitioners learn to use an opponent’s force against them through flexibility and softness.
Proverbs and Idioms: One common saying is 柔よく剛を制す (yawara yoku gō o seisu), which translates to “softness controls hardness,” emphasizing the value of adaptability and gentleness in overcoming challenges.