1. Kanji Breakdown: 勝
This kanji represents a powerful concept of victory and excellence.
Meaning: Victory, win; to win, to surpass; to endure, to withstand; excellent.
Reading:
Onyomi (Sino-Japanese reading): ショウ (shou)
Kunyomi (Native Japanese reading): か（つ） (ka(tsu)), まさ（る） (masa(ru)), すぐ（れる） (sugu(reru))
The kanji is a phono-semantic compound (形声文字). It consists of two parts:
Left (月): This is actually the "flesh" or "meat" radical (にくづき), representing physical strength.
Right (劵): This component means "strength" or "effort."
Thus, the character combines the ideas of "physical strength" (月) and "exertion/effort" (劵), creating the meaning of "to overcome through strength and effort," which is the essence of winning.
2. Stroke Order and Writing
Learning the correct stroke order is crucial for balanced and beautiful kanji. "勝" has 12 strokes.
Here is the stroke order diagram and explanation:
Total Strokes: 12
Start with the left radical "月" (flesh radical):
Then, write the right part "劵":
Key Writing Tips:
Write from left to right, top to bottom.
The left radical "月" is narrow.
The right part "劵" is complex. Pay special attention to the final stroke which is a strong vertical hook.
The character should feel powerful and grounded, reflecting its meaning.
3. Vocabulary and Example Sentences
Here are some common words using "勝" and how to use them in sentences.
Vocabulary
勝つ (かつ, katsu)
Meaning: To win, to be victorious.
Example: 最後まで諦めずに戦い、勝った。
Romaji: Saigo made akiramezu ni tatakai, katta.
English: We fought without giving up until the end and won.
勝負 (しょうぶ, shoubu)
Meaning: Match, game, contest; win or lose.
Example: これは一か八かの勝負だ。
Romaji: Kore wa ikkakahachi no shoubu da.
English: This is an all-or-nothing contest.
優勝 (ゆうしょう, yuushou)
Meaning: Championship, overall victory.
Example: わがチームが優勝した！
Romaji: Waga chīmu ga yuushou shita!
English: Our team won the championship!
勝手 (かって, katte)
Meaning: One's own way, selfish; convenience; the kitchen (in a house).
Example: 彼は勝手なことばかりする。
Romaji: Kare wa katte na koto bakari suru.
English: He does whatever he wants (acts selfishly).
名勝 (めいしょう, meishou)
Meaning: Scenic beauty, picturesque place.
Example: この公園は国の名勝に指定されている。
Romaji: Kono kōen wa kuni no meishou ni shitei sarete iru.
English: This park is designated as a National Place of Scenic Beauty.
勝る (まさる, masaru)
Meaning: To excel, to surpass, to be superior.
Example: 健康は富に勝る。
Romaji: Kenkou wa tomi ni masaru.
English: Health is superior to wealth.
Summary
Kanji: 勝
Core Meaning: Victory, Win; to Surpass; to Endure.
Readings: On'yomi ショウ (shou), Kun'yomi かつ (katsu)
Stroke Order: 12 strokes. Remember it's composed of 月 (left - strength) and 劵 (right - effort). Practice writing it step-by-step to master its powerful form.
This kanji is essential for discussing competition, sports, and any situation involving victory or excellence. By mastering its stroke order and vocabulary, you will be able to correctly write and use this dynamic character.