武
Meanings
martial arts; military arts; the art of war
Refers to the skills, techniques, and philosophy of warfare and martial arts. Often used in compound words like 武士道 (bushidō) and 文武両道 (bunbu ryōdō).
He continued his training to master the way of martial arts.
military force; the sword
Emphasizes the power or authority of the military, or the use of armed force. 'The sword' is a figurative extension.
To protect a country, military force is also necessary.
Archaic sense referring to courage in battle. Rarely used in modern Japanese outside historical contexts.
In old texts, 武 was used as a word expressing the bravery of warriors.
military officer; military man
Refers to a person serving in the military. This usage is somewhat dated and often appears in historical or formal contexts.
In his youth, he aspired to be a military man and joined the army.
Usage patterns
- 〈人〉が武を修めるfor someone to master the martial arts
He has trained in the martial arts since he was young.
- 武に優れるto excel in military skill or arms
He was a general who excelled in military skill.
- 武を振るうto wield military force or power
The king unified the country by wielding military force.
Expressions
- ご武運をgood luck in battle; may fortune be with you
- 文武不岐scholarship and swordsmanship are one and the same; the literary and the military are the same path
- 武を練るtrain in military arts
- 文は武に勝るthe pen is mightier than the sword
- 花は桜木、人は武士the best flowers are cherry blossoms, the best people are samurai
- 武士は食わねど高楊枝the samurai glories in honourable poverty; keep a stiff upper lip