呵
scold, blow on, reprove
Readings
On'yomi
- カ
Kun'yomi
- か.す
- しか.る
- わら.う
Meaning
呵 centers on forceful vocal expression: scolding, reproving, or blowing out breath sharply. The meanings share the idea of directing strong breath or words at someone or something.
Most common words using 呵
- 呵呵かか
(laughing) loudly
- 啖呵たんか
caustic words; defiant words
- 呵責かしゃく
blame; accusation; torture; maltreatment; pangs (of conscience)
- 一気呵成いっきかせい
finishing in one go; completing in one sitting; (doing something) in a single breath
- 呵々大笑かかたいしょう
laughing a ringing laugh; having a hearty laugh; roaring with laughter
- 啖呵を切るたんかをきる
to speak sharply (e.g. during a heated discussion or argument)
- 良心の呵責りょうしんのかしゃく
pangs of conscience
Study
Etymology
呵 combines 口 (mouth) with 可, which likely contributes the sound and may suggest the idea of vocal expression. The exact historical development is uncertain.
Meaning mnemonic
The mouth 口 on the left and 可 on the right suggest a mouth that can scold or blow. Picture a mouth open wide, forcefully blowing out words or air.
Reading mnemonic
For カ, imagine a car horn blowing sharply: car -> カ, and the sound is like a scolding blast from the mouth.