Translation and Meaning of: 四角 - shikaku

The Japanese word 四角 (しかく, shikaku) is a common term in everyday vocabulary, but do you know all the details behind it? In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is used in daily Japanese life. Additionally, we will see some tips for memorizing this kanji and how it appears in cultural contexts. If you are learning Japanese or just curious about the language, this guide will help you better understand this geometric expression.

Meaning and use of 四角

Shikaku literally means "square" or "rectangular," formed by the kanji 四 (four) and 角 (angle). This combination makes perfect sense, as a square has four sides and four angles. In Japan, the word is used to describe both geometric shapes and everyday objects, such as tables, books, and even personalities.

An interesting curiosity is that, in some contexts, 四角 can also describe something or someone considered "rigid" or "inflexible." For example, saying that a person has a "四角思考" can mean that they are very methodical or traditional. This metaphorical use shows how the Japanese language associates shapes with human characteristics.

Origin and writing of kanji

The origin of 四角 dates back to classical Chinese, where the combination of numbers and geometric shapes was common to create descriptive . The kanji 四 represents the number four, while 角 means "corner" or "angle." Together, they form a word that perfectly describes the figure with four corners.

To memorize these kanjis, a useful tip is to associate 四 with its shape, which resembles a window with four quadrants. Similarly, 角 can be ed by the radical for "horn" (⻆), present in words like 角度 (angle) and 三角 (triangle). This decomposition helps to anchor the writing and meaning in a more natural way.

Cultural usage and frequency

In Japan, 四角 (shikaku) is a commonly used word, especially in educational and design contexts. It appears in textbooks, architectural manuals, and even in everyday expressions. For example, the phrase "四角い顔" (shikakui kao) describes someone with a square face, a physical trait commonly found in descriptions.

Furthermore, the word is present in various compounds, such as 四角形 (quadrilateral) and 四角柱 (rectangular prism). Its use goes beyond geometry, even appearing in the names of commercial establishments, such as cafés and stores that want to convey an image of solidity and organization.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 角 (kaku) - Angle, corner
• 矩形 (kukei) - Rectangle
• 直角 (chokkaku) - Right angle
• 方形 (hōkei) - Square
• 四辺形 (shihenkei) - Quadrilateral, a shape with four sides