1. Kanji Breakdown: 魅
Meaning: Allure, fascination, charm; to captivate, to enchant.
Reading:
Onyomi (Sino-Japanese reading): ミ (mi)
Kunyomi (Native Japanese reading): None in common modern use.
The kanji is a phono-semantic compound (形声文字). It consists of two parts:
Left (鬼): This means "ogre," "demon," or "ghost."
Right (未): This means "not yet" and provides the sound ("mi").
The core concept is the "alluring, mysterious, and captivating nature of a supernatural spirit." In folklore, spirits and demons were often depicted as possessing an otherworldly and irresistible power to fascinate or lead humans astray. This character captures that essence of a mysterious, almost supernatural charm.
2. Stroke Order and Writing (15 Strokes)
Correct stroke order is essential for balanced and legible kanji.
Stroke Order Diagram:
Start with the left radical "鬼" (ogre):
Then, write the right part "未" (not yet):
Key Writing Tips:
Write from left to right, top to bottom.
The left part "鬼" is complex. Pay attention to the final hook (はね) at the bottom.
The right part "未" is simpler and should be balanced with the left side.
The overall character should feel grounded yet dynamic.
3. Core Meanings & Example Sentences
Here are the primary meanings of "魅" with common vocabulary and practical example sentences.
A. Allure / Fascination (ミ)
魅力 (みりょく, miryoku)
Meaning: Charm, appeal, attractiveness.
Example: 彼女は独特の魅力を持っている。
English: She has a unique charm.
魅了する (みりょうする, miryō suru)
Meaning: To fascinate, to captivate, to charm.
Example: 彼の演奏は観客を魅了した。
English: His performance captivated the audience.
B. Demon / Supernatural Allure
魅惑 (みわく, miwaku)
Meaning: Bewitchment, seduction, enchantment.
Example: その宝石は魅惑的な輝きを放っていた。
English: The jewel emitted a bewitching glow.
悪魔的魅力 (あくまてきみりょく, akuma-teki miryoku)
Meaning: Devilish charm, charismatic allure.
Example: 彼の悪魔的魅力に多くの女性が惹かれた。
English: Many women were drawn to his devilish charm.
Summary
Kanji: 魅
Core Meaning: Allure, Fascination, Charm.
Keyword: Captivating Allure, Supernatural Charm.
Readings: On'yomi ミ (mi)
Stroke Order: 15 strokes. Structure: 鬼 (ogre) + 未 (phonetic).
This character is essential for describing powerful, captivating appeal, whether in a person, a work of art, or an idea. It often carries a nuance of a mysterious or almost magical attractiveness. Mastering "魅" is key to expressing sophisticated concepts of beauty and fascination in Japanese.