The Kanji: 秀 (Shū / Hii)
The kanji 秀 means "excellence," "superiority," or "to stand out." It originally depicted a rice plant (禾) bending with heavy grain, representing outstanding quality. This character describes exceptional merit that rises above the ordinary.
Common Words & Example Sentences
1. 優秀 (yūshū) - Excellent
彼は優秀な学生だ。
"He is an excellent student."
2. 秀でる (hideru) - To excel
数学に秀でる。
"Excel in mathematics."
3. 秀才 (shūsai) - Gifted person
あの子は秀才だ。
"That child is gifted."
4. 秀逸 (shūitsu) - Masterpiece
この作品は秀逸だ。
"This work is a masterpiece."
In summary, 秀 represents distinguished quality - from talented individuals (秀才) and superior work (秀逸) to the act of excelling itself (秀でる). It reflects the cultural appreciation for exceptional achievement.