The Kanji: 脅 (Kyō / Odo)
The kanji 脅 means "to threaten," "to coerce," or "menace." It combines 力 (strength) with 劦 (three forces), originally depicting overwhelming force used to intimidate. This character represents both physical threats and psychological intimidation.
Common Words & Example Sentences
1. 脅す (odosu) - To threaten
ナイフで人を脅す。
"Threaten someone with a knife."
2. 脅威 (kyōi) - Threat
環境問題は人類の脅威だ。
"Environmental issues are a threat to humanity."
3. 脅迫 (kyōhaku) - Blackmail
匿名の脅迫文を受け取る。
"Receive an anonymous threatening letter."
4. 脅かす (obiyakasu) - To intimidate
大声で脅かす。
"Intimidate with loud voices."
In summary, 脅 describes various forms of intimidation - from direct threats (脅す) and dangers (脅威) to criminal coercion (脅迫) and psychological pressure (脅かす). It conveys the concept of menacing force in Japanese.