Translation and Meaning of: 日の丸 - hinomaru

The expression 「日の丸」 (hinomaru) is a direct reference to the flag of Japan, known for its simple and striking design: a red circle representing the rising sun, centered on a white background. The term is composed of two 「日」 (hi), which means "sun" or "day," and 「丸」 (maru), which means "circle." Literally, 「日の丸」 can be translated as "circle of the sun." This iconography is an essential part of Japanese culture and has a deep and symbolic history.

In the etymology of the term, 「日」 is a kanji that is associated not only with the concept of the sun but also carries connotations of light and heat, fundamental aspects of daily life and Japanese traditions. Meanwhile, 「丸」 is a kanji used to designate circular shapes, but it also symbolizes completeness and harmony. Together, these characters convey not only the idea of a visual sun but also connotations of totality and unity, which have been significant for Japan's national identity.

The origin of the flag 「日の丸」 dates back to the 7th century, during the Asuka Period, when the symbolism of the sun began to intertwine with Japanese identity due to its importance in Shinto practices and the reverence for the emperor as a descendant of the Sun Goddess, Amaterasu. However, it was only during the Edo Period (1603-1868) that the use of 「日の丸」 consolidated as a flag, initially adopted by merchant ships. In 1870, it was officially recognized as a naval insignia and, after the Meiji Restoration, it became the national symbol.

In addition to its role as a national symbol, the 「日の丸」 is often used in various expressions and contexts within Japanese culture, illustrating its versatility and ongoing relevance. Although it has faced controversies due to historical associations during periods of war, it is currently used in sports events, school ceremonies, and celebrations, reinforcing feelings of unity and national pride. The 「日の丸」 embodies a cultural and historical connection that transcends simple visual definitions, serving as a tangible link to the collective Japanese identity.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 旭日旗 (Kyokujitsu-ki) - Rising Sun flag, representing Japan.
• 国旗 (Kokki) - National flag, referring to the flag of Japan in a broader context.
• 日章旗 (Nisshoki) - Flag of the Sun, used as a more formal designation for the Japanese national flag.

日の丸

Romaji: hinomaru
Kana: ひのまる
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: the japanese flag

Meaning in English: the Japanese flag

Definition: Japanese flag. Located in the center of 16 red lines in a white circle on a red background.

Example Sentences - (日の丸) hinomaru

See below some example sentences:

日の丸は日本の国旗です。

Nihon no maru wa Nihon no kokki desu

Hinomaru is a Japanese flag.

• 日の丸 - rising sun flag
• は - Topic marking particle
• 日本 - Japan
• の - Possession particle
• 国旗 - National flag
• です - Verb to be/estar in the present