Translation and Meaning of: 金 - kane

Have you ever wondered what the Japanese word 金[かね] means? Whether for studies or curiosity, understanding this term goes beyond a simple translation. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is used in everyday Japan. Additionally, we will see tips for memorizing the kanji and interesting facts that make this word so special. Here at Suki Nihongo, our goal is to provide accurate and useful information for those learning Japanese.

Meaning and translation of 金[かね]

The word 金[かね] has a direct meaning: "money." However, its usage goes beyond the financial sense. In Japanese, it can also refer to metals in general, especially gold. This duality of meanings makes the word interesting and versatile in everyday vocabulary.

In informal contexts, かね is often used to talk about financial resources. For example, when someone says "かねがない" (kane ga nai), it means "I don't have money." In compositions with other kanjis, such as 金曜日[きんようび] (Friday), the radical 金 takes on a more symbolic role, connected to the element metal in traditional culture.

Origin and writing of the kanji 金

The kanji 金 has a rich history. Its origin dates back to ancient China, where it represented the precious metal extracted from the earth. The character is composed of the metal radical (釒) and an element that symbolizes purity, reinforcing its connection with gold. This visual combination helps to understand why 金 carries such valuable meanings.

One tip for memorizing this kanji is to observe its structure. The lower lines resemble grains of sand, while the upper part suggests a protective roof. This mental image can help associate 金 with something precious being kept safe. It's worth noting that, in Japanese writing, this same kanji can be read as "kin" in words like 金庫[きんこ] (safe).

Cultural use and frequency of かね

In Japan, かね is a common word in daily life, but it carries important cultural nuances. Unlike Portuguese, where "dinheiro" is a neutral term, かね can have stronger connotations. In conversations, it is polite to avoid speaking directly about money, using indirect expressions when necessary.

Interestingly, 金 appears in several Japanese proverbs. One example is 金の切れ目が縁の切れ目 (kane no kireme ga en no kireme), which means "when money runs out, the relationship also ends." This type of expression shows how the concept of money is deeply connected to culture and social values in Japan.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 貨幣 (Kahi) - Currency; money in general.
• お金 (Okane) - Money; used in a more casual or common way.
• 現金 (Genkin) - Cash; physical currency.
• 資金 (Shikin) - Funds; capital allocated for a project or investment.
• 銭 (Zen) - Coin; often refers to an old monetary unit.
• 金銭 (Kinsen) - Money and assets; it encomes the broader concept of monetary value.
• 金品 (Kinpin) - Valuable assets; it usually refers to items of value, not just money.
• 金属 (Kinzoku) - Metal; related to fine materials, not necessarily tied to the monetary concept.
• 金色 (Kiniro) - Golden color; referring to the color associated with gold.
• 金箔 (Kinpaku) - Gold leaf; used to cover surfaces or in crafts.