The Kanji: 淑 (Shuku)
The Japanese kanji 淑 (shuku) carries the core meaning of "graceful," "refined," "pure," and "gentle." It is almost exclusively used to describe a virtuous, well-mannered, and elegant feminine character. This kanji embodies the traditional ideal of a gentle and virtuous woman.
To write 淑 correctly, follow its 11-stroke order. It is a left-right structure, starting with the "water" radical (氵) on the left, followed by the more complex right-hand component.
Common Compound Words
淑女 (shukujo): A lady; a virtuous and well-bred woman. This is the most common word using this kanji.
淑やか (shizuyaka): An adjective meaning gentle, quiet, modest, or graceful (in demeanor).
賢淑 (kenshuku): Virtuous and intelligent; a term praising a woman for her wisdom and good character.
Example Sentences
For "Lady":
Kanji: 彼女は真の淑女です。
Reading: Kanojo wa shin no shukujo desu.
Meaning: She is a true lady.
Describing Demeanor:
Kanji: 彼女は淑やかに振る舞った。
Reading: Kanojo wa shizuyaka ni furumatta.
Meaning: She behaved gracefully.
For "Virtuous and Intelligent":
Kanji: 彼は賢淑な女性と結婚した。
Reading: Kare wa kenshuku na josei to kekkon shita.
Meaning: He married a virtuous and intelligent woman.
In summary, 淑 is the kanji of grace and virtue, primarily used in words praising feminine elegance. Mastering its stroke order is key to correct kanji writing.