根
root; basis; radical (chemistry)
Closest English meanings
root·base·cause
The Calligrapher — Huáng Tíngjiān 黄庭坚
Song master of elongated, radical running and cursive script.
Song calligrapher (1045–1105), master of running script/cursive script — Song master of long, sweeping, deliberately stretched running strokes. Song dynasty
Cultural Story
根 is the root that grips the earth — the 木 underground — and the 老子 uses it as the source all things return to. 根据 is what you stand your argument on; 根源 is where a trouble begins. The character is the hidden hold, the beginning you cannot see from above but feel when you pull.
Common words & phrases
- 根本 fundamental · basic
- 根据 according to · basis
- 树根 tree root
- 根源 source · root cause
- 扎根 take root · settle
- 根治 cure completely · eradicate
Read the story behind the character
根 is the word of origins and cures: 树根 the slab cracking a sidewalk, 根本 the word for what truly matters, 根据 the based on in every report. 扎根 is the NGO that settles in a village; 根治 the doctor's promise to end a disease. The character is the deep hold and the deep cause beneath the floor.
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