The short story of Kanji pictures
This kanji depicts a symbolic scene of a fierce clash: a tiger attacking a boar, alongside a sword representing battle. Because of this intense and dynamic imagery, the character evolved to describe dramatic events and, by extension, theatrical plays performed on stage.
This kanji symbolically depicts a sword and the cut line it leaves behind. Therefore, this kanji means ‘to cut.’
Just as every rose has its thorn, this character shows thorns on the left and a sword on the right, perfectly representing the meaning ‘pierce’
This kanji symbolizes a truly terrible and serious situation. On the left, you can find a solid wood frame designed to confine a guilty person’s neck. On the right, there is a big, sharp sword ready to strike. Since ancient times, this striking combination has directly represented the heavy concept of ‘PENALTY’ or ‘PUNISHMENT’!
Just look closely at the character—the kanji meaning SWORD is exactly what you can find right here! The long, elegant curve forms the sharp blade, and the shorter stroke shapes the handle. It is a perfect, literal drawing of a traditional Japanese sword!