The Kanji: 嘆 (Tan / Nage)
The kanji 嘆 means "to sigh," "to lament," or "to admire." It combines 口 (mouth) with 漢 (Chinese man), originally depicting heartfelt exclamations. This character represents deep emotional expressions of both sorrow and wonder.
Common Words & Example Sentences
1. 嘆く (nageku) - To lament
失敗を嘆く。
"Lament one's failure."
2. 嘆息 (tansoku) - Sigh
深い嘆息をもらす。
"Heave a deep sigh."
3. 驚嘆 (kyōtan) - Admiration
彼の技に驚嘆する。
"Marvel at his skill."
4. 嘆願 (tangan) - Petition
助命を嘆願する。
"Plead for someone's life."
In summary, 嘆 describes strong emotional expressions - from grief (嘆く, 嘆息) and admiration (驚嘆) to earnest requests (嘆願). It conveys deep feeling through exhalation in Japanese.