People here in Japan are reflecting on what kind of year 2022 has been.
And many have chosen the kanji character meaning “war” or “battle” as the one best symbolizing the past 12 months.
Kanji are the ideograms used in written Japanese, adapted from Chinese characters.
A Kyoto-based association promoting the use of kanji conducts the poll every year.
It announced the result with a calligraphy performance at Kiyomizu Temple in the city.
Association officials say Russia's invasion of Ukraine dealt a psychological blow to many people, who are also wrestling with higher prices and the weaker yen.
The officials also cite Japan's fierce battles in international sports events, such as its victories over Germany and Spain in the men's FIFA World Cup group round.
◆reflect on ～についてよく考える、熟考する、反省する
And many have chosen the kanji character meaning “war” or “battle” as the one best symbolizing the past 12 months.
Kanji are the ideograms used in written Japanese, adapted from Chinese characters.
A Kyoto-based association promoting the use of kanji conducts the poll every year.
It announced the result with a calligraphy performance at Kiyomizu Temple in the city.
Association officials say Russia's invasion of Ukraine dealt a psychological blow to many people, who are also wrestling with higher prices and the weaker yen.
The officials also cite Japan's fierce battles in international sports events, such as its victories over Germany and Spain in the men's FIFA World Cup group round.
◆reflect on ～についてよく考える、熟考する、反省する
◆ideogram 表意文字、表意記号 a written sign, for example in Chinese, that represents an idea or thing rather than the sound of a word → hieroglyphics
◆calligraphy 書道 the art of producing beautiful writing using special pens or brushes, or the writing produced this way
◆wrestle wit ～と戦う（闘う）、（困難な問題などに）取り組む to try to understand or find a solution to a difficult problem