The Kanji ‘腐’ (フ): Origins, Meaning, and Usage

Japanese Kanji

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The Japanese language is imbued with deep history and meaning in each character. The 常用漢字(jouyou kanji) “腐(fu)” is no exception, being used in a variety of expressions in everyday life. In this article, we will focus on the kanji “腐(fu),” exploring its origins and modern usage in detail.

腐の成り立ち(語源) – Origin of “腐(fu)”

The kanji “腐(fu)” has its origins in ancient China, originally used to describe the process of meat decaying. This kanji is composed of the radical “肉(nikuzuki)” meaning “meat,” and “府(fu)” which signifies “steam” or “gas” produced during the process of decay. This combination symbolizes the decomposition and transformation of substances over time.

腐の意味と用法 – Meaning and Usage of “腐(fu)”

In modern Japanese, the meaning of “腐(fu)” primarily refers to the decay or decomposition of substances. However, it is also used metaphorically and as slang. For example, the term “腐敗(fuhai)” is used to describe the corruption of social trends or human hearts, while “腐女子(fujoshi)” refers to women who are deeply enthusiastic about certain subcultures.

腐の読み方・画数・部首 – Reading, Stroke Count, and Radical of “腐(fu)”

The kanji “腐(fu)” has various readings in Japanese.

  • Reading: In on’yomi (音読み), it is read as “フ(fu),” and in kun’yomi (訓読み), it is read as “くさ.る(kusa.ru)” or “くさ.れる(kusa.reru).”
  • Stroke Count: The total stroke count for “腐(fu)” is 14 strokes.
  • Radical: Its radical is “肉(nikuzuki).”

腐を使った熟語・慣用句・ことわざとその意味 – Idioms, Phrases, and Proverbs Using “腐(fu)”

There are numerous idioms, phrases, and proverbs in Japanese that include “腐(fu).” For instance, “腐心する(fushin suru)” means to make an effort with a troubled heart to achieve a goal, “腐乱する(furan suru)” refers to the complete decay of a substance, and the idiom “腐れ縁(kusare en)” describes a strong bond that cannot be severed despite a bad relationship.

腐についてのまとめ – Conclusion on “腐(fu)”

The meaning embedded in a single kanji transcends time and culture. The kanji “腐(fu)” is no exception. From physical decay to social corruption and even modern pop culture, we have glimpsed the multifaceted expressions of “腐(fu)” through this article. You can appreciate the depth of the Japanese language and the historical and cultural weight carried by each word.

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