1. Direct Meaning and Breakdown of the Kanji "賂" (Rō)
The kanji 賂 carries a singular, unambiguous, and deeply negative meaning.
Core Meaning: A bribe; a kickback.
Keyword: Illicit payment for favor or influence.
Pronunciation:
ロウ (Rō): The on'yomi (Sino-Japanese reading).
Etymological Breakdown:
The character 賂 is composed of two parts:
貝 (Kaigai - "shell" or "currency" radical): This radical, representing ancient currency, places the character firmly in the realm of money and wealth.
各 (Kaku - "each"): This component primarily serves a phonetic role, contributing the "ro" sound.
The character conceptualizes the idea of "money or valuables being given to various parties," specifically in a corrupt, under-the-table transaction.
Common Usage in Japanese:
This kanji is used exclusively in the context of corruption and bribery:
賄賂 (Wairo): Bribe, bribery. This is the primary and most common word for this kanji, carrying a strong legal and moral condemnation.
贈賄 (Zōwai): Offering a bribe (active act).
収賄 (Shūwai): Accepting a bribe (passive act).
2. "賂" as a Tattoo: Meanings and Severe Warnings
Choosing "賂" as a tattoo is one of the most ill-advised and dangerous choices possible. Its meaning is not just negative; it is associated with serious criminal activity and moral corruption.
Potential Personal Meanings (And Why They Are Problematic):
There are no socially acceptable personal meanings for this character. Any attempt to assign one would be seen as either profoundly ignorant or an endorsement of criminal behavior.
A "Cynical" or "Anti-Establishment" Statement: In a misguided and reckless attempt to appear rebellious, someone might choose this to symbolize a belief that "everything is for sale" or that they operate outside the rules. This would not be seen as cool or edgy, but as a declaration of dishonesty and untrustworthiness.
A "Tribute" to Wealth or Power: Given the "money" radical, someone might naively interpret it as a symbol of wealth. However, the character specifically denotes wealth obtained or used illegally and unethically. It is a symbol of corruption, not success.
Severe Warnings and Potential Consequences:
Under no circumstances should you get this tattoo.
Overwhelmingly Criminal Connotation: To any Japanese person, this character has one meaning: bribery. A tattoo of 賂 is equivalent to having the word "BRIBE" or "CORRUPTION" tattooed on your body. It is a direct symbol of illegal and immoral activity.
Social, Professional, and Legal Repercussions: This tattoo would immediately brand you as untrustworthy, corrupt, and potentially dangerous. It would likely lead to:
Complete social ostracism.
Inability to find or keep a job.
Intense suspicion from law enforcement and authorities.
Potential denial of entry to establishments in Japan.
Profound Cultural and Moral Insensitivity: Displaying this symbol shows a total disregard for law, ethics, and social harmony. It is one of the most offensive and alarming kanji choices imaginable.
Zero Ambiguity: The character has no positive, poetic, or philosophical interpretations. Its meaning is singularly and powerfully negative.
3. Design and Styling Suggestions
There are no design suggestions for this kanji as a tattoo. The only appropriate advice is an absolute and unequivocal recommendation against its use.
Summary
| Aspect | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Kanji | 賂 |
| Pronunciation | Rō |
| Core Meaning | A bribe. |
| Tattoo Meaning | None. It is universally and exclusively interpreted as a symbol of bribery and corruption. |
| Suitability | Catastrophically poor. It is unsuitable for every single person. Getting this tattoo would be a life-altering mistake with severe negative consequences. |
Final and Unequivocal Advice:
Do not get this tattoo. The risk is absolute.
If you are drawn to concepts related to "wealth" or "value," use these positive and clear alternatives:
富 (Tomī): Wealth, abundance.
財 (Zai): Wealth, assets.
宝 (Takara): Treasure.
価 (Ka): Value.
If you are seeking a symbol for a "rebellious" spirit, consider:
反 (Han): Anti-, against.
破 (Ha): To break, to defeat.
Choosing "賂" is not a matter of personal interpretation; it is an objective error. It is a symbol of crime and moral failure and must be avoided entirely.