The Kanji: 窮 (Kyū / Kiwa)
The kanji 窮 means "destitution," "dead end," or "to investigate thoroughly." It combines 穴 (hole) with 躬 (bending body), originally depicting being trapped in a cave. This character represents both extreme hardship and exhaustive inquiry.
Common Words & Example Sentences
1. 貧窮 (hinkyū) - Poverty
戦後は貧窮に苦しんだ。
"Suffered from poverty after the war."
2. 窮屈 (kyūkutsu) - Cramped
靴が窮屈だ。
"The shoes are too tight."
3. 窮める (kiwameru) - To master
技を窮める。
"Master a skill."
4. 窮地 (kyūchi) - Predicament
経営窮地に立つ。
"Face management difficulties."
In summary, 窮 describes extreme states - from poverty (貧窮) and constraint (窮屈) to exhaustive pursuit (窮める) and dire situations (窮地). It conveys intensity in both adversity and dedication.