The “扉 (tobira)” is not just a simple panel that opens and closes. It is a symbolic presence that hints at the beginning of a story and invites you into a new world. In this article, we focus on the 常用漢字 (jouyou kanji) “扉 (tobira)”, exploring its origin, meaning, usage, pronunciation, and the idioms and expressions it has become a part of in our language. Let’s open a new door and step into the profound world of the kanji “扉 (tobira)”.
Origin of 扉 (tobira)
The origin of the kanji “扉 (tobira)” dates back to ancient China. It is based on the character “戸 (to)”, with the addition of the “非 (hi)” part to form “扉 (tobira)”. While “戸 (to)” means door or gate, “非 (hi)” generally conveys a sense of negation or incorrectness. However, in this context, it is typically interpreted to mean “a special door”. Thus, 扉 (tobira) came to signify not just any entrance, but an important gateway.
Meaning and Usage of 扉 (tobira)
The character “扉 (tobira)” literally refers to a door or gate, but it also metaphorically represents an entrance to a new place, the beginning of a story, the start of an opportunity, and more. For example, the beginning of a new chapter can be described as “opening a new door (新たな扉が開く, aratana tobira ga hiraku)”, or stepping into a new phase of life can be referred to as “opening the door to life (人生の扉を開く, jinsei no tobira wo hiraku)”.
Pronunciation, Stroke Count, and Radical of 扉 (tobira)
Let’s look at the basic information of the kanji “扉 (tobira)”.
- Pronunciation: On’yomi (音読み) is “ヒ (hi)”, Kun’yomi (訓読み) is “とびら (tobira)”
- Stroke Count: 12 strokes
- Radical: 戸部 (tobu, door radical)
Idioms, Expressions, and Proverbs Using 扉 (tobira)
There are many words and expressions that include “扉 (tobira)”, each with its unique meaning. For instance, “扉を開ける (tobira wo akeru)” literally means to open a door, but metaphorically it refers to advancing towards new possibilities or opportunities. “一扉 (ittobira)” refers to one door, often indicating a specific field or scope. “心の扉を開く (kokoro no tobira wo hiraku)” is an expression that means to open one’s heart and accept others.
Summary of 扉 (tobira)
The kanji “扉 (tobira)” holds significant meaning through its form and history. Opening it reveals new worlds, while closing it protects privacy. Beyond its physical presence, “扉 (tobira)” is also used to symbolize psychological barriers and possibilities. This important word occupies a crucial place in the Japanese language. Through this article, we hope you understand the diverse meanings and usages of “扉 (tobira)” and use this word more richly in your daily life.
