The Kanji: 弔 (Chō / Tomura)
The kanji 弔 (read as chō or tomura) carries the solemn meaning of "to mourn," "to condole," or "to offer one's condolences." It is a pictographic character that originally depicted a person wrapped in a bow and arrow, symbolizing protection for the soul of the deceased. This character is exclusively used in the context of death and expressing sympathy for the bereaved.
Common Words & Example Sentences
1. 弔問 (chōmon)
Meaning: A condolence visit; paying respects to the bereaved.
Example Sentence: お悔やみのため、ご自宅に弔問に伺いました。
(O-kuyami no tame, go-jitaku ni chōmon ni ukagaimashita.)
"I paid a condolence visit to their home to offer my sympathies."
2. 弔辞 (chōji)
Meaning: A funeral address; a memorial speech.
Example Sentence: 校長先生が卒業生の葬儀で弔辞を述べた。
(Kōchō sensei ga sotsugyōsei no sōgi de chōji o nobeta.)
"The principal delivered a funeral address at the graduate's service."
3. 弔う (tomurau)
Meaning: To mourn; to hold a memorial service.
Example Sentence: 彼の冥福を弔う。
(Kare no meifuku o tomurau.)
"To mourn for the repose of his soul."
In summary, 弔 is a kanji of mourning and condolence. It is used for the act of expressing grief (弔う), the formal visits made to do so (弔問), and the speeches given at funerals (弔辞). It is a respectful and essential character in contexts of bereavement.