Translation and Meaning of: 武士 - bushi

Etymology and Origin of the Word 「武士」 (Bushi)

The word 「武士」 (bushi) is composed of two kanji characters: 「武」 (bu) and 「士」 (shi). 「武」 is often associated with war and strength, representing the idea of a military or warrior. This kanji includes the radical 「止」, which could be associated with stopping or controlling, and 「戈」, which indicates a spear or weapon. Together, they suggest an ability to control weapons or martial techniques. On the other hand, 「士」 refers to an honorable man or gentleman, often corresponding to a specialist or knowledgeable person. This combination leads to the understanding that a 「武士」 is more than just a warrior; it is someone who cultivates virtues and skills.

Historically, the figure of the 「武士」 emerged in Japan during the Heian Period (794-1185), an era where warriors began to gain prominence in society due to the decline of centralized imperial authority. During this time, many clans waged war to expand their wealth and territories, which led to the strengthening of local warriors. Over time, the term became synonymous with the warrior class, representing the military and commanding elite in feudal Japan.

Definition and Variations of the Concept of 「武士」

The definition of 「武士」 transcends the simple image of an armed warrior. This word encompasses foundational concepts of honor, loyalty, discipline, and duty. At the height of their influence during the Edo Period, the 「武士」 were known for the practice of bushido, the "way of the warrior," a code of ethics encompassing values such as righteousness, courage, benevolence, respect, honesty, honor, and loyalty. This philosophy shaped the moral and behavioral expectations of the samurai class, which eventually became the administrative and bureaucratic army of the country.

Although the term 「武士」 is often used to refer to the samurai, it is important to emphasize that the concept can be applied to individuals who demonstrate similar values and skills, even outside the strict traditional Japanese context. With the modernization of Japan, the era of the samurai officially ended in 1876, with the prohibition of carrying swords. However, the legacy of the 「武士」 remains influential, representing integrity and dedication in various cultural and philosophical forms to this day.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 侍 (Samurai) - Class of warriors who served nobles.
• 士族 (Shizoku) - Class of nobles and warriors, generally related to the aristocracy of the feudal era.
• 武家 (Buke) - Warrior families or the samurai class.
• 武人 (Bujin) - A person who stands out in combat activities; a more generic term for a warrior.
• 武士階級 (Bushikakyuu) - Class of samurais, emphasizing the social hierarchy.

武士

Romaji: bushi
Kana: ぶし
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n2

Translation / Meaning: Warrior; Samurai

Meaning in English: warrior;samurai

Definition: An ancient Japanese warrior who possessed fighting skills and swore loyalty to his lord.

Example Sentences - (武士) bushi

See below some example sentences:

武士道を守る。

Bushidō o mamoru

Defend the way of the warrior.

Protect Bushido.

• 武士道 - bushido (samurai code of conduct)
• を - direct object particle
• 守る - protect, defend