The Kanji: 親 (Shin / Oya / Shita)
The kanji 親 means "parent," "intimacy," or "to be close to." It combines 見 (see) with 立 (stand) and 木 (tree), originally depicting a parent standing by a tree watching over their child. This character represents both familial relationships and emotional closeness.
Common Words & Example Sentences
1. 親 (oya) - Parent
私の親は教師です。
"My parent is a teacher."
2. 親切 (shinsetsu) - Kindness
親切な人に助けられた。
"I was helped by a kind person."
3. 母親 (hahaoya) - Mother
母親としての責任を感じる。
"I feel responsibility as a mother."
4. 親しい (shitashii) - Close/intimate
彼とは親しい友達だ。
"He is a close friend of mine."
In summary, 親 describes family bonds (親, 母親), compassionate acts (親切), and close relationships (親しい). It embodies the deep cultural value placed on familial and social connections in Japan.