The Kanji: 廃 (Hai / Suta)
The kanji 廃 means "abolish," "disuse," or "waste." It combines 广 (building) with 發 (emit), originally depicting an abandoned structure emitting decay. This character represents the state of abandonment and termination.
Common Words & Example Sentences
1. 廃止 (haishi) - Abolition
古い制度を廃止する。
"Abolish old systems."
2. 廃棄 (haiki) - Disposal
産業廃棄物を処理する。
"Dispose of industrial waste."
3. 廃れる (sutareru) - To fall into disuse
習慣が廃れる。
"Customs fall into disuse."
4. 廃墟 (haikyo) - Ruins
戦争の廃墟が残る。
"War ruins remain."
In summary, 廃 describes termination and decay - from abolishing systems (廃止) and discarding items (廃棄) to abandoned places (廃墟) and obsolete practices (廃れる). It's essential for discussing obsolescence and disposal.