畏
fear, majestic, graciously, be apprehensive
Readings
On'yomi
- イ
Kun'yomi
- おそ.れる
- かしこま.る
- かしこ
- かしこ.し
Meaning
畏 centers on a respectful, awe-filled fear: being apprehensive in the presence of something majestic or powerful, and behaving graciously as a result.
Most common words using 畏
- 畏まるかしこまる
to obey respectfully; to humble oneself; to sit straight (upright, respectfully, attentively)
- 畏怖いふ
awe; fear; dread; fright
- 畏敬いけい
reverence; awe; respect
- 畏かしこ
yours sincerely; respectfully yours
- 畏まりましたかしこまりましたN4
certainly!; very well; with pleasure; understood!
- 後生可畏こうせいかい
the young should be regarded with respect
- 敬畏けいい
awe; reverence; fear (e.g. of authority)
- 無畏むい
fearlessness; confidence when preaching
- 畏くもかしこくも
graciously
- 畏まったかしこまった
formal; stiff (style of speaking, writing, etc.); humble; respectful
- 畏友いゆう
one's esteemed friend
- 畏怖嫌厭いふけんえん
feelings of dread and aversion
- 畏懼いく
reverence; awe; fear
- 畏敬の念いけいのねん
feelings of awe and veneration; reverential feelings
- 畏服いふく
awe
- 畏縮いしゅく
wincing; cowering; shrinking; flinching; recoiling
- 衝撃と畏怖しょうげきといふ
shock and awe
Study
Etymology
畏 is thought to depict a figure with a head (田) and a body with arms and legs, suggesting a fearsome or majestic appearance that inspires awe. The exact historical development is uncertain, but the character has long been associated with fear and reverence.
Meaning mnemonic
The top 田 looks like a stern, imposing face, and the lower part resembles a figure with arms spread wide and legs planted firmly. Imagine a majestic, intimidating presence that makes you feel apprehensive and act graciously out of respect.
Reading mnemonic
For イ, picture an eagle (イーグル) soaring overhead, its majestic presence making you freeze in awe and fear: eagle -> イ.