Translation and Meaning of: 肺 - hai

If you are studying Japanese or simply interested in the language, you may have come across the word 肺[はい]. This word, which means "lung," is essential both in medical vocabulary and in everyday life. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, writing in kanji, and how it is used in Japan. Additionally, we will look at some curiosities about its use in expressions and tips for memorizing it effectively.

The kanji 肺 is composed of elements that reveal its connection to the human body, and understanding its structure can facilitate learning. Whether for those starting in Japanese or for those looking to deepen their knowledge, knowing this word is useful in various situations. Let's discover all of this next!

Meaning and writing of 肺[はい]

The word 肺[はい] means "lung" in Japanese and is written with the kanji 肺, which is composed of the radical 月 (tsuki), often associated with body parts. The right side of the kanji, 巿, does not have a direct meaning but helps to differentiate it from other characters. This combination forms a kanji that is frequently used in medical and anatomical contexts.

In addition to its literal meaning, 肺 also appears in such as 肺炎[はいえん] (pneumonia) and 肺活量[はいかつりょう] (lung capacity). Knowing how to recognize this kanji can be especially useful for those studying medicine or working in the health field. Even outside of this context, it is a word worth knowing.

Origin and etymology of the kanji 肺

The kanji 肺 has Chinese origins and was incorporated into Japanese as part of the kanji writing system. Its radical 月, known as "nikuzuki" (meat/meat side), indicates that it is related to a part of the body. This is a common characteristic in many kanjis that describe organs or anatomical structures, such as 肝 (kan, liver) and 胃 (i, stomach).

Interestingly, the kanji 肺 does not have a direct connection to breathing in its composition, but its use has always been linked to the lungs. Throughout the centuries, its writing has remained almost unchanged, demonstrating how some kanjis preserve their form even as time es. This stability helps students recognize it more easily.

How to use 肺[はい] in daily life

In daily life, 肺[はい] is more common in medical or scientific contexts, but it can also appear in expressions like 肺がん[はいがん] (lung cancer) or 肺機能[はいきのう] (pulmonary function). In informal conversations, Japanese people may use simpler , such as 肺の病気[はいのびょうき] (lung disease), to refer to respiratory issues.

One tip to memorize this word is to associate it with images or practical situations, such as ing X-ray examinations of the lungs. Another strategy is to create flashcards with the kanji and its meaning, reinforcing learning through repetition. Over time, recognizing 肺 will become something natural, especially if you practice with real examples.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 肺臓 (Haizō) - Organ responsible for breathing, specifically the lungs.
• 呼吸器官 (Kokyū kigan) - Organs involved in the respiratory process.
• 呼吸器 (Kokyūki) - Equipment or organ related to breathing.
• 呼吸臓器 (Kokyū zōki) - Organ specifically related to respiratory function.
• 呼吸器系 (Kokyūki kei) - System of organs responsible for breathing.
• 呼吸器官系 (Kokyū kigan kei) - Respiratory organs set.
• 呼吸器官群 (Kokyū kigan gun) - Group of organs related to breathing.
• 呼吸器官臓器 (Kokyū kigan zōki) - Organs that make up the respiratory system.
• 呼吸器官臓器系 (Kokyū kigan zōki kei) - Specific respiratory organ system.