Translation and Meaning of: 倣 - hou

The Japanese word represented by the kanji 「倣」 is read as "ほう" (hou) in Japanese. This kanji is often used in contexts referring to the act of imitating or following the example of something or someone. The core meaning lies in the idea of replication or emulating a specific model. The character is composed of 10 strokes, and understanding it can significantly enhance reading and writing in Japanese, especially when dealing with texts that discuss traditions or customary cultural practices.

Regarding the etymology of the kanji 「倣」, it is formed by two main components. The left side is the radical 人 (ninben), which suggests an association with people or human actions, and the right side is 放 (hou), which can mean "to liberate" or "to release." Together, these components form a central idea of an intentional and conscious act of imitating or following a previously executed human action. This component symbolizes not only the action of imitation but also the idea of freeing one's own style to adopt that of another. The presence of the radical allows this action to be clearly attributed to activities related to human behavior.

The origin of the use of 「倣」 dates back to traditions where imitating masters or predecessors was fundamental for learning in various disciplines, from martial arts to calligraphy. In the social and cultural context, it is common for younger individuals to emulate the older ones, or for students to follow the example of their teachers. These practices have solidified the use of the term in everyday life, encoming not only physical actions but also attitudes and ways of thinking. This reinforces the cultural importance of the kanji as an element of continuity and respect for tradition, something that is still highly valued in various parts of the world.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 倣り (narai) - Practice, imitation
• ならい (narai) - Practice, study, learning
• まねる (maneru) - Imitate, copy
• ならう (narau) - Learn, study
• ならえる (naraeru) - Being able to learn
• ならぶ (narabu) - Align, to be in line
• ならべる (naraberu) - Put in line, arrange
• ならす (nanasu) - To tame, to habituate
• ならいましょう (narai mashou) - Let's learn (formal)
• ならいましょ (narai masho) - Let's learn!
• ならいませんか (narai masen ka) - Aren't we going to learn?
• ならいません (narai masen) - Aren't we going to learn?
• ならいました (narai mashita) - We learn (formal)
• ならいましたら (narai mashitara) - If we learn (formal)
• ならいましたか (narai mashita ka) - We learned (informal, question)
• ならいましたから (narai mashita kara) - Because we learn (formal)
• ならいましょうか (narai mashou ka) - Shall we learn? (formal proposal)
• ならいましょうから (narai mashou kara) - Let's learn why...
• ならいましょうね (narai mashou ne) - Let's learn, okay?
• ならいましょうよ (narai mashou yo) - Let's learn, okay?
• ならいましょうぜ (narai mashou ze) - Let's learn, right? (male slang)
• ならいましょうかね (narai mashou ka ne) - Let's learn, shall we?
• ならいましょうかよ (narai mashou ka yo) - Let's learn, okay?
• ならいましょうか (narai mashou ka) - Shall we learn?