The Kanji ‘撮’ (サツ): Origins, Meaning, and Usage

Japanese Kanji

Japanese is enriched with numerous kanji characters, each with its own unique history and meaning. One such kanji, commonly used in daily life, is “撮” (さつ, satsu). This article delves into the origins, meanings, usage, readings, stroke count, and radicals of “撮” (さつ, satsu). Additionally, it explores idioms, phrases, and proverbs that incorporate this character, revealing the rich world of expression it embodies.

Origin of 撮 (さつ, satsu)

The kanji “撮” (さつ, satsu) is composed of the radical 扌 (てへん, tehen), which represents a hand, and 最 (さい, sai), symbolizing the most basic form. This combination illustrates actions such as pinching or gathering objects, reflecting scenes from ancient Chinese daily life. Over time, “撮” (さつ, satsu) evolved to signify actions like collecting, pinching, and photographing.

Meaning and Usage of 撮 (さつ, satsu)

“撮” (さつ, satsu) primarily means “to pinch,” “to gather,” or “to photograph.” For instance, “撮影” (さつえい, satsuei) refers to taking pictures or videos with a camera, while “摘撮” (てきさつ, tekisatsu) means to pick or pinch small objects. Figuratively, it can also be used in expressions like “心情を撮る” (しんじょうをとる, shinjō wo toru), meaning “to capture emotions.”

Readings, Stroke Count, and Radicals of 撮 (さつ, satsu)

Here are the key characteristics of the kanji “撮” (さつ, satsu):

  • Readings: The on’yomi (音読み) readings are “サツ” (さつ, satsu) and “サイ” (さい, sai), and the kun’yomi (訓読み) reading is “とる” (toru).
  • Stroke count: 15 strokes.
  • Radical: The radical is 扌 (てへん, tehen), which represents actions performed by the hand.

Idioms, Phrases, and Proverbs Using 撮 (さつ, satsu) and Their Meanings

There are several idioms and phrases that include the kanji “撮” (さつ, satsu). Here are a few examples:

  • 撮影 (さつえい, satsuei): To take photographs or videos.
  • 連撮 (れんさつ, rensatsu): To take consecutive photographs.
  • 縮撮 (しゅくさつ, shukusatsu): To photograph something in a reduced size.
  • 摘撮 (てきさつ, tekisatsu): To pick or pinch small items.
  • 一瞥を撮る (いちべつをとる, ichibetsu wo toru): To glance at something.

These expressions are commonly used in both everyday life and professional contexts.

Conclusion on 撮 (さつ, satsu)

The kanji “撮” (さつ, satsu) encompasses a broad range of meanings, from the physical actions of pinching and gathering to the modern act of photographing. As a versatile character in the Japanese language, “撮” (さつ, satsu) vividly expresses hand movements within words. By understanding its various uses, we gain a deeper appreciation for how this kanji continues to evolve and enrich Japanese expression.

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