The beauty of the Japanese language lies in its complexity. The meanings and histories embedded in each kanji character reflect the depth of Japanese culture and language. “究(きゅう, kyū)” is one of Japan’s common kanji, signifying the importance of delving deeply into academic and research pursuits. This article explores the origins, meanings, and usage examples of this fascinating character.
Origin of 究(きゅう, kyū)
The kanji “究(きゅう, kyū)” was formed in ancient China, depicting an image of “九(きゅう, kyū)” emerging from a “穴(あな, ana)” (hole). This visual representation signifies the act of probing or pursuing something to its ultimate end. It symbolizes the intrinsic value ancient people placed on delving deeply into knowledge and truth.
Meaning and Usage of 究(きゅう, kyū)
“究(きゅう, kyū)” means “to probe deeply” or “to research.” This character is primarily used in words related to academic and investigative activities. For example, in words like “研究(けんきゅう, kenkyū)” (research) and “探究(たんきゅう, tankyū)” (exploration), “究(きゅう, kyū)” signifies the act of pursuing something in depth.
Readings, Stroke Count, and Radical of 究(きゅう, kyū)
Understanding the readings and structural elements of “究(きゅう, kyū)” can enhance comprehension.
- Readings: The on-yomi (Chinese reading) is “キュウ(kyū)”, and the kun-yomi (Japanese reading) is “きわ.める(kiwa.meru)”.
- Stroke count: “究(きゅう, kyū)” consists of 7 strokes.
- Radical: The radical is 穴(あな, ana), which pertains to characters related to holes.
Idioms, Proverbs, and Expressions Using 究(きゅう, kyū)
There are numerous idioms, proverbs, and expressions that include “究(きゅう, kyū)”. Here are some examples:
- 研究(けんきゅう, kenkyū): The activity of deeply investigating academic subjects or technologies to generate new knowledge or theories.
- 究極(きゅうきょく, kyūkyoku): The utmost or ultimate state of something, indicating the highest point or the very end.
- 窮究(きゅうきゅう, kyūkyū): Thoroughly pursuing the causes or reasons behind something.
- 究明(きゅうめい, kyūmei): Clarifying facts or truths.
Summary of 究(きゅう, kyū)
The kanji “究(きゅう, kyū)” expresses the fundamental human desire to seek and pursue knowledge and truth. Its usage from formation to modern times reflects a deep respect for scholarship and the pursuit of understanding in Japanese culture. In daily life, we often embody the spirit of “究(きゅう, kyū)” as we strive to comprehend various phenomena. Thus, “究(きゅう, kyū)” holds significant value beyond being a mere character, symbolizing the richness of the Japanese language.
