The Kanji: 味 (Mi / Aji)
The kanji 味 means "taste," "flavor," or "experience." It combines 口 (mouth) with 未 (not yet), originally suggesting something not yet fully tasted. This character represents both sensory flavor and qualitative experience.
Common Words & Example Sentences
1. 味 (aji) - Taste
このスープは味が薄い。
"This soup tastes bland."
2. 意味 (imi) - Meaning
言葉の意味を調べる。
"Look up the meaning of a word."
3. 趣味 (shumi) - Hobby
私の趣味は写真です。
"My hobby is photography."
4. 味方 (mikata) - Ally
君は私の味方だよね。
"You're on my side, right?"
In summary, 味 describes sensory perception (味), significance (意味), personal interests (趣味), and relational support (味方). It connects physical taste with abstract experience in Japanese.