Daigo's Diary - Kanji and Japanese Culture

Before we move on, let's talk briefly about two new kanji. Additionally, we'll take our first journey in discovering Japan.

Kanji

Let's explore a new kanji: 字. Remember from our review of kanji previously, it’s better to learn kanji in words rather than isolating one kanji because they change the reading (sounds) depending on how they are used.

**One New Kanji with Reading Examples**
Kanji	Base Meaning	Example 1	Example 2
字	じ letter	数字すうじ = number letter (1, 2, 3, etc.) Note: 数 = number(s) Compare: 一、二、三 = 数１，２，３ = 数字	漢字かんじ = kanji, Chinese characters (Japanese kanji are simplified from Chinese)

The following will help you learn the proper method for writing these kanji. Please practice, even if it is just with your finger, to write these new kanji. After practicing with your finger a few times, try to write them in your notebook using the proper strokes.

Discover Japan: Emojis

Emojis are often used when texting messages among friends in Japan, as you do on your phone or email. Emoji is a universal language, isn’t it?

Please watch the following video to learn more about texting in Japan.

Download a printable copy of the Email/SMS Video Presentation.

Discover Japan: 台風 - Typhoon

台風(たいふう), meaning typhoon, is a storm or hurricane in Asia usually during late summer and early fall. In Japan, they name each typhoon of the year by the number (#号(ごう)), unlike in the US, where each storm uses a person's name. The word typhoon is now recognized as an English word. However, it was imported from the Japanese word – Taifuu (たいふう). Tycoon is another example. You may want to search and find out the original word in Japanese!

台風(たいふう)１３号(ごう)が来るんだって。それで、らいしゅう学校は休(やす)みだ。

I heard Typhoon #13 is coming. So, school will be closed next week.

Final Thoughts: Kanji and Japanese Culture

Take a moment to reflect on this lesson. Finally, be sure to keep practicing and reviewing your notes on kanji!

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