1. Kanji Breakdown: 命
Meaning: Life, fate, destiny, command, order. This kanji encompasses the concepts of existence itself, the predetermined course of one's life, and an authoritative instruction.
Reading:
Onyomi (Sino-Japanese reading): メイ (mei)
Kunyomi (Native Japanese reading): いのち (inochi)
2. Stroke Order and Writing
Learning the correct stroke order is essential for writing this kanji correctly and beautifully. "命" is a compound kanji made of two parts: the top part "令" and the bottom part "卩".
Here is the stroke order diagram and explanation:
Total Strokes: 8
Start with the top part "令":
Then, write the bottom part "卩":
Key Writing Tips:
Write from top to bottom, left to right.
The top part "令" should be slightly wider.
The bottom part "卩" should be centered and support the top. Pay attention to the final hook (はね).
The overall shape is roughly triangular, providing a stable structure.
3. Vocabulary and Example Sentences
Here are some common words using "命" and how to use them in sentences.
Vocabulary
命 (いのち, inochi)
Meaning: Life.
Example: この薬は多くの命を救う。
Romaji: Kono kusuri wa ōku no inochi o sukū.
English: This medicine saves many lives.
生命 (せいめい, seimei)
Meaning: Life, existence. (Often used in scientific, philosophical, or formal contexts).
Example: 地球外生命体を探査する。
Romaji: Chikyūgai seimei-tai o tansa suru.
English: We search for extraterrestrial life forms.
運命 (うんめい, unmei)
Meaning: Fate, destiny.
Example: 君に会えたのは運命だと思う。
Romaji: Kimi ni aeta no wa unmei da to omou.
English: I think it was fate that I met you.
命令 (めいれい, meirei)
Meaning: Order, command, directive.
Example: 上司の命令に従う。
Romaji: Jōshi no meirei ni shitagau.
English: I obey my boss's orders.
命綱 (いのちづな, inochizuna)
Meaning: Lifeline, safety rope.
Example: 命綱**をしっかり繋いでおけ。
Romaji: Inochizuna o shikkari tsunaide oke.
English: Make sure to secure the lifeline properly.
Summary
Kanji: 命
Core Meaning: Life, Fate, Command. It connects the profound concept of life with the idea of a decree, as if life itself is a command from a higher power.
Readings: On'yomi メイ (mei), Kun'yomi いのち (inochi)
Stroke Order: 8 strokes. Remember it's composed of 令 (top) and 卩 (bottom). Practice writing it step-by-step to master its form.
By understanding its components and practicing the stroke order, you will be able to correctly write and use this profound and essential kanji. Keep practicing