The Kanji: 兵 (Hei / Hyō)
The kanji 兵 means "soldier," "army," or "weapon." It depicts two hands (廾) holding a battle-axe (斤), representing military personnel and warfare. This character describes military concepts and combatants.
Common Words & Example Sentences
1. 兵士 (heishi) - Soldier
兵士が国境を守る。
"Soldiers guard the border."
2. 兵器 (heiki) - Weapon
核兵器の廃絶を求める。
"Call for the abolition of nuclear weapons."
3. 兵隊 (heitai) - Military unit
兵隊が行進する。
"The military unit marches."
4. 兵舎 (heisha) - Barracks
兵舎で寝起きする。
"Live and sleep in the barracks."
In summary, 兵 encompasses military personnel (兵士, 兵隊), equipment (兵器), and facilities (兵舎). It's essential for discussing military topics in Japanese.