Japanese mini lessons: Another Meaning of 名 besides "Name"
Do you know the kanji “名”? That’s right! It means “name.”
The Story Behind 名
名 is made up of two kanji: 夕 (yuu, evening) and 口 (kuchi, month). It is said that this kanji comes from the idea of saying (口にする、kuchi ni suru) your name to someone you meet in the evening (夕方, yuugata) darkness.
夕 (evening) ＋口 (mouth) ＝名 (name)
Actually, this kanji is also commonly used with a different meaning. Do you know what it is? It can also mean “amazing” and “excellent.” Let’s take a look at some words that uses “名” to talk about something/someone great!
名曲（めいきょく）Meikyoku：Great song
シティポップの名曲の一つに、杏里の「悲しみが止まらない」がある。
One of the great city pop songs is Anri’s “Kanashimi ga tomaranai”.
名所（めいしょ）Meisho：Famous place
最近のマイブームは、日本各地の名所めぐりだ。
Recently, I’ve been into visiting famous places around Japan.
名医（めいい）Meii：A great doctor
ブラック・ジャックのような名医は、なかなかいない。
A doctor like Black Jack is very rare.
名物（めいぶつ）Meibutsu：Local specialities or famous item
博多の名物といえば、ラーメンや明太子だけど、「博多通りもん」もおススメ。
When you think of famous things from Hakata, ramen and mentaiko come to mind, but Hakata Toorimon is also something you should try!
名人（めいじん）Meijin：Someone with great talent
1980年代、高橋名人に憧れている子供がたくさんいた。
In 1980, many children admired Takahashi Meijin.
As you can see, 名 isn’t just about “name.” It’s used in many words to talk about things that are amazing! Try to find other words with 名 too.
Japanese Class Updates from Nihongo Picnic
New High-Intermediate Class starting in May
Our two current high-intermediate classes are now full, so we are opening a new one!
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