1. Kanji Breakdown: 首
This kanji is a pictograph representing a very specific part of the body.
Meaning: Neck; head; leader; beginning.
Reading:
Onyomi (Sino-Japanese reading): シュ (shu)
Kunyomi (Native Japanese reading): くび (kubi)
The kanji is a pictograph (象形文字). Its ancient form clearly depicted a "head with hair (or perhaps a decorative plume) on top, and the neck below." The top part (丷) represents the hair or ornamentation, while the bottom part (目 and the connecting line) represents the eye and the neck. This vivid image evolved into its current form.
2. Stroke Order and Writing
Learning the correct stroke order is crucial for balanced and beautiful kanji. "首" has 9 strokes.
Here is the stroke order diagram and explanation:
Total Strokes: 9
Start with the top-left dot. (A short stroke)
The top-right dot. (A short stroke)
The horizontal stroke that connects from the center.
The left vertical stroke.
The right vertical stroke.
The middle horizontal stroke that seals the top.
The "eye" radical "目":
Key Writing Tips:
Write from top to bottom.
The top part should be compact and centered.
The bottom part "目" (eye) should be wider and provide a stable base.
The overall character should be well-balanced and upright.
3. Vocabulary and Example Sentences
Here are some common words using "首" and how to use them in sentences.
Vocabulary
首 (くび, kubi)
Meaning: Neck; head (as in being fired from a job).
Example: スカーフを首に巻いた。
Romaji: Sukāfu o kubi ni maita.
English: I wrapped a scarf around my neck.
首都 (しゅと, shuto)
Meaning: Capital city.
Example: 日本の首都は東京です。
Romaji: Nihon no shuto wa Tōkyō desu.
English: The capital of Japan is Tokyo.
首になる (くびになる, kubi ni naru)
Meaning: To be fired, to get the sack.
Example: 仕事で大きなミスをして首になった。
Romaji: Shigoto de ōkina misu o shite kubi ni natta.
English: I made a big mistake at work and got fired.
首相 (しゅしょう, shushō)
Meaning: Prime Minister.
Example: 首相が国会で演説した。
Romaji: Shushō ga Kokkai de enzetsu shita.
English: The Prime Minister gave a speech in the Diet.
首位 (しゅい, shui)
Meaning: First place, top position.
Example: あのチームがリーグで首位を走っている。
Romaji: Ano chīmu ga rīgu de shui o hashitte iru.
English: That team is in first place in the league.
手首 (てくび, tekubi)
Meaning: Wrist (literally, "hand neck").
Example: 手首を痛めた。
Romaji: Tekubi o itameta.
English: I hurt my wrist.
Summary
Kanji: 首
Core Meaning: Neck, Head, Leader.
Readings: On'yomi シュ (shu), Kun'yomi くび (kubi)
Stroke Order: 9 strokes. Remember its pictographic origin as a head and neck.
This kanji is essential for describing the body, leadership, and important beginnings. By mastering its stroke order and vocabulary, you will be able to correctly write and use this fundamental character.