Nihongo

Kanji Detail of 盟

Level:N1 Mid
Strokes:13
Stroke Order
Related Words
AI Explanation
Basic Meaning

The kanji primarily signifies "alliance," "pact," or "covenant." It conveys the idea of a formal agreement or pledge between individuals or groups, often involving mutual commitment, loyalty, and cooperation. This kanji suggests a bond that is both strong and enduring.

Readings

・On-yomi (音読み): メイ mei ・Kun-yomi (訓読み): None, as the meaning is primarily conveyed through compound words.

Usage Examples

⚫︎同盟 Translation: Alliance; League; Union. ⚫︎同盟国 Translation: Allied country. ⚫︎宣誓 Translation: Oath; Pledge.

Origin and Formation

The kanji is a 会意形 (かいいけい - ideogrammic compound), meaning it is formed by combining the meanings of its parts to create a new meaning. It is composed of two main parts: ・ 皿 (さら - sara) meaning "dish" or "plate." ・ 明 (めい - mei) meaning "bright" or "clear". The original meaning of comes from ancient rituals. In these rituals, people would gather, often around a shared dish, to make a formal agreement, which would be visible and understood by all. The "dish" symbol represents the place where the agreement is made, and the "bright" symbol emphasized the clarity and importance of the vow, creating an alliance.

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