The beauty of the Japanese language is reflected in its characters. Among them, the common kanji “初(はじ)” symbolizes new beginnings and first experiences, deeply rooted in our daily lives. In this article, we explore the charm of “初(はじ)” from its origin, meaning, and usage, to various idioms and expressions, uncovering the rich world this single character holds.
初の成り立ち(語源)
The kanji “初(はじ)” is derived from an ancient Chinese pictograph that originally meant cutting new fabric. Over time, it came to represent the general concept of beginning something new. Its structure, with the radical for “clothing” (衣, ころも) and “knife” (刀, かたな) underneath, signifies the act of making new clothes.
初の意味と用法
“初(はじ)” means “beginning” or “first” and refers to the initial moment or state of something starting. It is used in contexts such as “初体験(はつたいけん, first experience)” and “年初(ねんしょ, beginning of the year),” and often signifies freshness or an unexperienced state.
初の読み方・画数・部首
“初(はじ)” has the following basic readings in Japanese:
- 読み方: 音読みでは「ショ(しょ)」、訓読みでは「はじめ(はじめ)」「はつ(はつ)」「うい(うい)」「そめる(そめる)」と読まれます。
- 画数: 「初(はじ)」は全部で7画から成り立っています。
- 部首: その部首は「衣(ころも)」で、衣服に関連する漢字に分類されます。
初を使った熟語・慣用句・ことわざとその意味
There are many idioms and expressions that include “初(はじ)” in Japanese. Here are some examples:
- 初恋（はつこい）: The first romantic feeling in one’s life.
- 初詣（はつもうで）: The first shrine or temple visit of the New Year.
- 初心（しょしん）: The pure heart or enthusiasm when starting something.
- 初対面（しょたいめん）: Meeting someone for the first time.
- 初出勤（はつしゅっきん）: The first day of work at a new job.
These idioms and expressions are frequently used in daily life, each conveying its unique nuance.
初についてのまとめ
The kanji “初(はじ)” symbolizes beginnings and freshness, deeply ingrained in our language and culture. From its origin to its readings, meanings, and idioms, the rich expressiveness of this single character illustrates the depth of the Japanese language. “初(はじ)” encapsulates those important moments in our lives, evoking the excitement and anticipation of new experiences.
