The Kanji: 印 (In / Shirushi)
The kanji 印 means "stamp," "seal," or "mark." It depicts a hand (爫) pressing down on a kneeling person (卩), originally representing the act of leaving an impression. This character represents official seals, symbols, and impressions.
Common Words & Example Sentences
1. 印鑑 (inkan) - Personal seal
書類に印鑑を押す。
"Stamp the document with a personal seal."
2. 印象 (inshō) - Impression
彼女の言葉は強い印象を与えた。
"Her words made a strong impression."
3. 印刷 (insatsu) - Printing
この本は印刷がきれいだ。
"This book has beautiful printing."
4. 目印 (mejirushi) - Landmark
あの建物を目印に曲がる。
"Turn at that building as a landmark."
In summary, 印 describes marks and impressions - from physical stamps (印鑑) and printing (印刷) to mental images (印象) and guiding signs (目印). It's essential for both administrative and symbolic contexts in Japan.