The Kanji: 機 (Ki / Hata)
The kanji 機 means "machine," "opportunity," or "loom." It combines 木 (wood) with 幾 (how many), originally referring to the complex wooden parts of a loom. This character represents both mechanical devices and timely chances.
Common Words & Example Sentences
1. 機械 (kikai) - Machine
工場で機械を操作する。
"Operate machinery in a factory."
2. 機会 (kikai) - Opportunity
良い機会を逃さない。
"Don't miss a good opportunity."
3. 飛行機 (hikōki) - Airplane
飛行機で東京へ行く。
"Go to Tokyo by airplane."
4. 機織り (hataori) - Weaving
祖母は機織りが趣味だ。
"My grandmother enjoys weaving."
In summary, 機 describes both tangible mechanisms (機械, 飛行機) and intangible timing (機会), while preserving its textile origins (機織り). It beautifully connects technology with temporal precision.