Kanji (漢字), deeply rooted in our daily lives, may seem like mere characters, but each one has its own unique history and meaning, profoundly influencing Japanese culture and language. The kanji “稼” (かせ) is one such character, representing an important concept in our lives. This article delves into the origins, meaning, and usage of “稼,” as well as related idioms and phrases, providing a comprehensive understanding of its significance.
Origins of 稼 (Kase)
Exploring the origins of the kanji “稼” is the first step in understanding the depth of its meaning. This character, originating from ancient China, is derived from the act of cultivating crops. In societies grounded in agriculture, “稼ぐ” (かせぐ) referred to raising and harvesting crops to make a living. Over time, “稼” came to be used in a broader sense, referring to earning income through labor in general.
Meaning and Usage of 稼
In modern Japanese, “稼” is used to mean “to work and earn an income.” In the business world, it often refers to companies or individuals generating profit through economic activities. More broadly, the term “稼ぐ” can also express the effort put forth to produce results. Depending on the context, it can be used in various phrases such as “earning money,” “accumulating points,” or “gaining credit.”
Reading, Stroke Count, and Radical of 稼
Basic information about the kanji “稼” is also very important for learning Japanese.
- Reading: The on’yomi (音読み) reading is “カ” (ka), and the kun’yomi (訓読み) reading is “かせ.ぐ” (kase.gu).
- Stroke Count: The kanji “稼” has 15 strokes.
- Radical: The radical of this kanji is “禾” (のぎへん or nogihen).
Idioms, Phrases, and Proverbs Using 稼
There are several idioms and phrases that include the kanji “稼,” such as:
- 稼業 (かぎょう, kagyō): Refers to one’s main profession or occupation.
- 稼働 (かどう, kadō): The state of machinery operating normally, or the act of working.
- 稼頭 (かとう, katō): The primary income earner in a family or group.
- 金を稼ぐ (かねをかせぐ, kane wo kasegu): To work in order to earn money.
- 稼ぐ手を休める (かせぐてをやすめる, kasegu te wo yasumeru): To take a temporary rest from work.
These idioms and phrases reflect the meaning of the kanji “稼” and are commonly used in everyday life and business scenarios.
Conclusion on 稼
The meaning and history behind each kanji character reflect a country’s culture and values. The kanji “稼” has been closely associated with people’s lives from ancient times, representing the fundamental part of life that involves working and earning an income. Even in today’s society, this character is used in various contexts, symbolizing our labor and achievements as an important term. It is our hope that through this article, readers have gained a deeper understanding of the profound meaning and applications of “稼.”
