“火” (ひ, hi), deeply rooted in Japanese culture and indispensable to people’s lives since ancient times. This single character contains a variety of images such as warmth, destruction, and rebirth. In this article, we will delve into the profound world of the common kanji “火” (ひ, hi), from its origin to its meaning, usage, reading, and even the idioms and phrases that use 火 (ひ, hi).
The Origin (Etymology) of 火 (ひ, Hi)
The kanji “火” (ひ, hi) is a pictogram that symbolically represents the shape of flames rising upward. In ancient Chinese oracle bone script, it took the form of depicting flames burning in three directions, and over time, it was simplified into its current shape. As a character, “火” (ひ, hi) represents one of the most basic elements for humans and indicates an important factor that supports life.
The Meaning and Usage of 火 (ひ, Hi)
The kanji “火” (ひ, hi) does not only refer to burning flames but can also carry metaphorical meanings. For example, “火事” (かじ, kaji) means a fire incident, and “火花” (ひばな, hibana) refers not only to a spark but also to small sparks that scatter from two colliding objects. Additionally, “火力” (かりょく, karyoku) is used not only to express the strength of flames but also to describe the intensity of combat or the power of ability.
Reading, Stroke Count, and Radical of 火 (ひ, Hi)
The kanji “火” (ひ, hi) is an easy character to remember due to its simple shape.
- Reading: The on’yomi reading is “カ” (ka), and the kun’yomi reading is “ひ” (hi).
- Stroke Count: A total of 4 strokes
- Radical: The radical is 火部 (ひへん, hihen).
Idioms, Phrases, and Proverbs Using 火 (ひ, Hi) and Their Meanings
There are numerous idioms, phrases, and proverbs in Japanese that use “火” (ひ, hi). For example, “火の車” (ひのくるま, hi no kuruma) represents a situation of financial hardship, and “火を見るより明らか” (ひをみるよりあきらか, hi wo miru yori akiraka) means that something is extremely clear. Additionally, “火中の栗を拾う” (かちゅうのくりをひろう, kachū no kuri wo hirou) means to gain profit without regard for the danger to others, and “火に油を注ぐ” (ひにあぶらをそそぐ, hi ni abura wo sosogu) refers to an act that further worsens a situation.
Summary of 火 (ひ, Hi)
The kanji “火” (ひ, hi) is an important character that is frequently used in daily life and in language. The image of flames associated with its shape has been expressed in various forms in people’s lives and culture. The destructive and regenerative power of fire has given birth to many lessons and admonitions through language, appealing to our hearts to this day.
