Kanji Analysis: 猶 (Yū / Jū)
The kanji 猶 is a complex character with a primary meaning of "hesitation" but is most famously used in an adverbial phrase meaning "still" or "yet." It carries a nuanced feeling of a pause, a continuation, or a state that remains unchanged.
Primary Meaning: To Hesitate; Still; Yet; Furthermore
Reading:
Onyomi (Sound-reading): ユウ (Yū), ジュウ (Jū)
Kunyomi (Meaning-reading): なお (nao)
1. Breakdown for Easy Learning
The kanji's structure provides a clear, visual clue to its original meaning:
犭 (Kemonohen): The "beast" or "dog" radical on the left.
酋 (Shū): The component on the right, which can mean "chieftain" or is associated with fermentation (as in 酒, sake).
Memory Tip & Origin Story: The character originates from a classical Chinese tale. The "dog (犭)" is said to be "hesitant" or "waiting" for the "chieftain (酋)" to finish his wine, not daring to approach. This story perfectly encapsulates the core idea of hesitation, wariness, and biding one's time.
2. Common Vocabulary (語彙 - Goi)
"猶" is used in a few key words and a crucial set phrase.
| Word / Phrase | Reading | Meaning & Context |
|---|---|---|
| 猶予 | ゆうよ Yūyo | Postponement; Deferment; Reprieve. This word directly relates to the "hesitation" meaning, indicating a delay or a grace period. (e.g., 執行猶予 - shikkō yūyo - a suspended sentence). |
| 猶更 | なおさら Naosara | All the more; Still more; Furthermore. This adverb is used to emphasize an increase in degree. |
| 〜にもかかわらず | ~にもかかわらず ~ni mo kakawarazu | Although; In spite of; Despite. In this common phrase, 猶 is part of the classical form にも拘わらず, emphasizing "even though that is the case, things are still this way." |
3. The Most Important Usage: 猶なお (Naonao) → なお (Nao)
The most frequent and important modern usage of "猶" is in the adverbial phrase なお (nao), which is the condensed form of 猶なお (naonao).
なお (Nao) means:
Still; Yet (indicating a continuing state).
Furthermore; Moreover (adding information).
Example Sentences (例文 - Reibun)
Using なお (Nao) as "Still":
Japanese: 十年経った今も、彼女のことはなお忘れられない。
Romaji: Jū-nen tatta ima mo, kanojo no koto wa nao wasurerarenai.
English: Even now, ten years later, I still cannot forget her.
Using なお (Nao) as "Furthermore":
Japanese: 説明会への参加は無料です。なお、事前登録が必要となります。
Romaji: Setsumeikai e no sanka wa muryō desu. Nao, jizen tōroku ga hitsuyō to narimasu.
English: Participation in the information session is free. Furthermore, advance registration is required.
Using 猶予 (Yūyo) as "Postponement":
Japanese: レポートの提出期限に猶予をお願いした。
Romaji: Repōto no teishutsu kigen ni yūyo o onegai shita.
English: I asked for an extension on the report deadline.
4. Tattoo Meaning: A Nuance of Patience and Persistence
Getting "猶" as a tattoo is a highly intellectual and nuanced choice. Its meaning is not immediately obvious but carries deep philosophical weight.
Core Symbolism: Hesitation, Patience, Unchanging State, Resilience.
Potential Positive Interpretations:
The Wisdom of Patience: Drawing from its core meaning of "hesitation," it can symbolize the virtue of not rushing, of waiting for the right moment, and of thoughtful deliberation before action (like the dog in the origin story).
Enduring Spirit: Using the meaning of なお (nao) - "still," it can represent perseverance and resilience. It's a declaration that "I am still here," "my spirit is still strong," or "my love/will still remains" despite challenges and the passage of time.
A Constant State: It can signify an unchanging core belief, identity, or love.
Important Considerations & Warnings:
Duality of Meaning: The primary meaning is "hesitation," which can be perceived negatively as indecisiveness or weakness if not understood in its full context.
Sophisticated, Not Obvious: This is not a kanji like "愛" (love) or "力" (strength) with a clear, universal meaning. Its beauty lies in its subtlety, but that also means most people, including some Japanese speakers, would not instantly grasp its intended symbolism.
A Personal Mantra: It works best as a personal reminder to be patient or to endure, rather than a symbol meant for public declaration.
Final Tattoo Advice:
"猶" is a thoughtful and powerful tattoo for someone who connects deeply with its nuanced philosophy. If you see your life as a testament to patience, resilience, and enduring through hesitation, this kanji can be a profound choice. However, you must be comfortable with its complexity and prepared to explain its layered meaning.
If you are primarily drawn to the meaning of "still," a simpler and more direct (though less unique) option could be the hiragana なお, which carries the same adverbial meaning without the "hesitation" connotation.