The richness of the Japanese language is reflected in its characters. Each kanji (漢字) carries a deep history and meaning, intricately connected to our daily lives. This time, we focus on the common-use kanji “裂” (レツ, retsu) and explore its profound world. From its unique origin to its meanings and usages, including idioms and proverbs, let’s unravel the full scope of this kanji.
The Origin of “裂” (レツ, retsu)
The kanji “裂” (レツ, retsu) evolved from pictograms depicting the act of tearing clothing. In ancient China, it was used to describe the action of tearing fabric vertically, and this imagery has been passed down to the current form of the character “裂” (レツ, retsu). Initially representing the tearing of clothes or fabric, it later came to signify the general act of dividing things.
Meaning and Usage of “裂” (レツ, retsu)
The kanji “裂” (レツ, retsu) means “to divide,” “to separate,” or “to split.” It often refers to the physical act of splitting something into two parts, especially objects like fabric or paper that tear easily. Metaphorically, it can also be used to describe emotional pain, as in the phrase “心を裂く” (こころをさく, kokoro o saku), meaning “to tear the heart.”
Reading, Stroke Count, and Radical of “裂” (レツ, retsu)
To fully understand the kanji “裂” (レツ, retsu), it is important to know its readings and structure.
- Readings: On’yomi (音読み) is “レツ” (retsu), Kun’yomi (訓読み) is “さ.ける” (sa.keru) and “さ.く” (sa.ku)
- Stroke count: 12 strokes
- Radical: 衣 (ころもへん, koromohen)
Idioms, Proverbs, and Phrases Using “裂” (レツ, retsu)
Idioms, proverbs, and phrases containing “裂” (レツ, retsu) are commonly used in Japanese. For example, the proverb “一石を投じて百裂の波を起こす” (いっせきをとうじてひゃくれつのなみをおこす, isseki o toujite hyakuretsu no nami o okosu) means that a small action can cause a significant impact. Another expression, “心を裂くような” (こころをさくような, kokoro o saku youna), is used to describe extremely painful or sad experiences. Additionally, phrases like “縦横無尽に裂く” (じゅうおうむじんにさく, juuou mujin ni saku) and “意見が裂ける” (いけんがさける, iken ga sakeru) demonstrate the diverse applications of this kanji.
Summary of “裂” (レツ, retsu)
The kanji “裂” (レツ, retsu) possesses a richness in meaning and usage that belies its simple strokes. From the basic concept of dividing objects to expressing psychological emotions, this kanji broadens the range of expression in the Japanese language. By understanding the history and culture behind “裂” (レツ, retsu), we can deepen our appreciation of the words we encounter in daily life.
