How to Write the Kanji Character “愛” (Ai)
The kanji character 愛, pronounced as “ai” in Japanese, holds a special place in the language as it represents the concept of love and affection. While learning to write kanji characters may seem challenging at first, with the right approach, it can be a rewarding and enriching experience. In this article, we will explore how to write the kanji character 愛 stroke by stroke and delve into its meaning and significance.
Understanding the Structure and Composition
The kanji character 愛 is comprised of 13 strokes and is classified under the radical 心 (kokoro), which means “heart.” The character is a combination of the radicals 受 (ju) and 心, with the radical 受 representing the action of receiving and the radical 心 imparting the concept of emotions or feelings.
Writing the Character Stroke by Stroke
To write the kanji character 愛, follow the strokes in the following order:
1. Start with a horizontal stroke from left to right (一).
2. Next, draw a vertical stroke from top to bottom, starting at the top left and extending just a little past the horizontal stroke (丨).
3. Then, make a leftward-sloping stroke from the top left, curving slightly downward (丿).
4. Following this, draw a similar but longer leftward-sloping stroke, starting from the same point and curving further downwards (丿).
5. Proceed with a rightward-sloping stroke, starting from the top and sweeping downwards and to the right, resembling a backward “c” shape (乀).
6. Then, add a diagonal stroke, starting at the top and slanting downward to the right (?).
7. After that, draw a horizontal stroke from left to right, slightly lower than the first horizontal stroke and crossing over the previous strokes (一).
8. Continue by adding a vertical stroke from top to bottom, starting from the top and extending just below the previous horizontal stroke, crossing through the previous strokes (丨).
9. Then, draw a short horizontal stroke from left to right, connecting the previous vertical stroke and curving slightly downward at the end (乀).
10. Add a short vertical stroke from top to bottom, starting just right of the previous horizontal stroke and extending slightly below it (丨).
11. Following this, draw a horizontal stroke from left to right, starting at the top, slanting slightly upward, and ending with a slightly downward curl at the right end (丨).
12. Then, add another horizontal stroke from left to right, starting from the same point as the previous stroke and extending slightly below it, curving upward at the right end (乀).
13. Finally, complete the character by adding a horizontal stroke from left to right, starting at the same point as the previous two horizontal strokes and crossing over the previous components (丨).
Understanding the Meaning and Significance
The kanji character 愛 encapsulates the notion of deep affection, love, and compassion. It represents the emotional connection and caring relationship between individuals, as well as the broader concept of love in its various forms. Writing this character not only involves mastering the physical strokes but also conveys an understanding of the sentiment it symbolizes.
Practice and Patience
Mastering the art of writing kanji characters, including 愛, demands consistent practice and patience. It is important to pay attention to the order and direction of the strokes while maintaining the correct balance and proportions. With dedicated practice, one can develop a greater appreciation for the beauty and complexity of kanji characters, deepening their understanding of the Japanese language and culture.
In conclusion, the kanji character 愛 is a powerful representation of love and affection in the Japanese language. By understanding its structure, meaning, and significance, as well as practicing its writing stroke by stroke, learners can embrace the beauty and depth of this iconic character. Writing 愛 can serve as a gateway to a deeper understanding of both the Japanese language and the profound sentiments it embodies.
