Japanese Word of the Year: Last Year‘s Top Trends124

Every year, the Japan Kanji Aptitude Association unveils a single kanji character that represents the year's events and prevailing mood. The character chosen for 2022 was "戦" (sen), meaning "war," a reflection of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and heightened geopolitical tensions around the world.

Other Contenders

While "war" emerged as the consensus choice, several other kanji characters received significant votes. "楽" (raku), meaning "comfort" or "enjoyment," ranked second, reflecting a growing desire for escapism and relaxation amid the ongoing pandemic.

The character "高" (ko), meaning "high" or "expensive," also made the top five, highlighting concerns about rising inflation and the increasing cost of living. Other contenders included "安" (an), meaning "peace" or "cheap," reflecting a longing for stability and affordability, and "変" (hen), meaning "change," capturing the sense of uncertainty and upheaval that characterized the year.

Popularity of the Kanji Character

The kanji character "戦" has a long and storied history in Japanese culture. It was first introduced to Japan from China during the Han Dynasty and has been used throughout history to denote warfare and conflict.

In recent years, the character has taken on a new significance as a symbol of Japan's changing attitude towards war and its role in the world. The country's pacifist constitution, adopted after World War II, has been a defining aspect of its national identity. However, in recent years, there has been a growing debate about whether Japan should play a more active role in global security.

Impact on Japanese Society

The selection of "war" as the kanji of the year is likely to have a significant impact on Japanese society. It will serve as a reminder of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the potential for wider geopolitical conflict.

It may also prompt a deeper discussion about Japan's role in the world and its commitment to pacifism. The character "戦" is a powerful symbol of both the horrors of war and the importance of peace. It is a reminder that conflict is a complex and multifaceted issue that requires careful consideration and thoughtful action.

Conclusion

The selection of "war" as the Japanese Word of the Year 2022 is a sobering reminder of the challenges and uncertainties that face the world today. However, it is also an opportunity for reflection and dialogue about the importance of peace and cooperation. As we look ahead to the year 2023, we can take inspiration from the kanji character "戦" and strive to work together to build a more peaceful and just world.

2025-02-20

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