1. Kanji Breakdown: 拳
This kanji represents a specific part of the human body used for striking or grasping.
Meaning: Fist.
Reading:
Onyomi (Sino-Japanese reading): ケン (ken)
Kunyomi (Native Japanese reading): こぶし (kobushi)
The kanji is a compound ideograph (会意文字). It consists of two parts:
Top (龹): This is a simplified form of a character depicting two hands clasped together or in motion.
Bottom (手): This means "hand."
The character vividly illustrates the action of "a hand (手) closing or clasping (龹)" to form a fist.
2. Stroke Order and Writing
Learning the correct stroke order is crucial for balanced and beautiful kanji. "拳" has 10 strokes.
Here is the stroke order diagram and explanation:
Total Strokes: 10
Start with the top part "龹":
Then, write the bottom part "手":
Key Writing Tips:
Write from top to bottom.
The top part "龹" should be compact. Pay attention to the order of the horizontal strokes and the final hook.
The bottom part "手" should provide a stable base. The final vertical hook is distinctive.
The overall character should feel balanced, with the top and bottom parts aligned.
3. Vocabulary and Example Sentences
Here are some common words using "拳" and how to use them in sentences.
Vocabulary
拳 (こぶし, kobushi)
Meaning: Fist.
Example: 怒りで拳を握りしめた。
Romaji: Ikari de kobushi o nigirishimeta.
English: I clenched my fist in anger.
拳法 (けんぽう, kenpou)
Meaning: Fist method; martial arts (especially Chinese-style).
Example: 彼は拳法の達人だ。
Romaji: Kare wa kenpou no tatsujin da.
English: He is a master of Chinese martial arts.
空手 (からて, karate)
Meaning: Karate (literally "empty hand"). Note: While this word doesn't use the "拳" kanji, it is the most famous Japanese martial art involving the fist and is essential to know in this context.
Example: 兄は空手を習っている。
Romaji: Ani wa karate o naratte iru.
English: My older brother is learning karate.
拳銃 (けんじゅう, kenjuu)
Meaning: Pistol, revolver (literally, "fist gun" – a gun held in one hand).
Example: 刑事は拳銃を所持していた。
Romaji: Keiji wa kenjuu o shoji shite ita.
English: The detective was carrying a pistol.
拳骨 (げんこつ, genkotsu)
Meaning: Knuckle; a punch with the fist.
Example: 兄ちゃんに拳骨を食らった。
Romaji: Nii-chan ni genkotsu o kuratta.
English: I got a knuckle punch from my big brother.
Summary
Kanji: 拳
Core Meaning: Fist.
Readings: On'yomi ケン (ken), Kun'yomi こぶし (kobushi)
Stroke Order: 10 strokes. Remember it's composed of the clasping motion 龹 on top of the 手 (hand).
This kanji is essential for vocabulary related to martial arts, physical actions, and weapons. By mastering its stroke order and vocabulary, you will be able to correctly write and use this powerful character.