ku-adjective (archaic)
Only when written 利し / 鋭し
Archaic adjective describing a sharp blade or edge. Found in classical texts; not used in modern Japanese.
古語では「利し」は刃物の鋭さを表した。
In classical Japanese, '利し' expressed the sharpness of a blade.
ku-adjective (archaic)
Only when written 疾し / 鋭し
Archaic adjective for intensity or strength, often of natural forces or emotions. Associated with the kanji 疾し and 鋭し.
「疾し」は風や流れの激しさを意味した。
'疾し' meant the intensity of wind or current.
ku-adjective (archaic)
Only when written 疾し / 捷し
Archaic adjective for speed or swiftness. Used with 疾し and 捷し in classical contexts.
「捷し」は動作の速さを表す古い形容詞だ。
'捷し' is an old adjective expressing quickness of action.
ku-adjective (archaic)
keen; sharp (mind, senses); clever
Only when written 敏し / 聆し
Archaic adjective for mental sharpness or keen perception. Associated with 敏し and 聆し.
「敏し」は頭の回転の速さを意味する古語である。
'敏し' is an archaic word meaning quick-wittedness.
Modern adjective for 'sharp' (blade, senses, mind). Replaces the archaic 利し/鋭し.
Modern adjective for 'intense' or 'violent'. Covers the meaning of archaic 疾し.
Modern adjective for 'fast' or 'quick'. Replaces the archaic 疾し/捷し.
Modern adjective for 'clever' or 'smart'. Covers the meaning of archaic 敏し.
Archaic ku-adjective from classical Japanese. The various kanji spellings reflect different nuances of sharpness, intensity, speed, and keenness. The exact derivation is uncertain; it is a native Japanese word predating the introduction of kanji.