Translation and Meaning of: 蓮 - hasu

The Japanese word 蓮[はす] (hasu) may seem simple, but it carries deep meanings both in the language and in Japan's culture. If you are looking to understand its meaning, origin, or how to use it in sentences, this article will explore all of that in a clear and practical way. Additionally, we will see how this word is perceived in everyday Japanese life and some curiosities that may help with memorization.

Lotus [はす] is often associated with the lotus flower, an aquatic plant with strong symbolism in Buddhism and Eastern culture. But does its use in Japanese go beyond that? Let's discover from its writing in kanji to common expressions that include it, always based on reliable sources and verified information.

Meaning and origin of 蓮 [はす]

蓮[はす] (hasu) literally means "lotus" in Japanese, referring to both the plant and its flower. The kanji 蓮 is composed of the radical 艹 (kusa-kanmuri), which indicates a relationship with plants, combined with 連 (ren), which suggests connection or continuity. This writing reinforces the idea of a plant that spreads over water, just as the lotus blooms in lakes and rivers.

The origin of the word dates back to ancient Chinese, where the character 蓮 was already used to represent the same plant. In Japan, the lotus holds great significance in Buddhism, symbolizing purity and spiritual enlightenment, as its flowers bloom in muddy waters without becoming stained. This symbolic meaning has strongly influenced the use of the word in Japanese language and culture.

Everyday and cultural use of 蓮[はす]

In everyday life, Japanese people use 蓮[はす] mainly to refer to the lotus plant or flower. It is common to find it in place names, such as Hasuike (蓮池, "lotus pond"), or in traditional dishes like hasu no ne (蓮根), which are the lotus roots used in cooking. The word also appears in expressions like hasu no hana (蓮の花), which simply means "lotus flower."

Culturally, the lotus is a recurring symbol in Japanese art, literature, and religion. In Buddhism, the flower represents the ability to rise above difficulties, just as the lotus grows in mud to bloom untouched. This meaning makes 蓮[はす] a word filled with positivity and resilience, often used in inspiring or spiritual contexts.

Tips for memorizing 蓮 [はす]

An effective way to remember the kanji 蓮 is to observe its components. The radical 艹 at the top indicates that it is a plant, while the bottom part 連 (ren) can be associated with the idea of "connecting" or "linking." Imagine the lotus connecting the muddy water to the beauty of its flower - this image helps to fix both the meaning and the writing.

Another tip is to create associations with words you already know. For example, hasu sounds a bit like "hassou" (発想, idea), which can remind you that the lotus inspires elevated thoughts. Practicing with simple sentences like "hasu no hana wa kirei desu" (蓮の花はきれいです, "the lotus flower is beautiful") also reinforces learning in a contextualized way.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• はす (hasu) - Lotus flower
• レン (ren) - Lotus, generally used in compound words related to the lotus.
• はちす (hachisu) - Lotus flower (more specific or poetic term)
• はちれん (hachiren) - Lotus (a term that can include usage in botanical or ornamental contexts)

蓮

Romaji: hasu
Kana: はす
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: lótus

Meaning in English: lotus

Definition: Lotus Flower. Besides that, its roots.

Example Sentences - (蓮) hasu

See below some example sentences:

蓮は美しい花です。

Ren wa utsukushii hana desu

Lotus is a beautiful flower.

Lotus is a beautiful flower.

• 蓮 - lotus
• は - Topic particle
• 美しい - pretty
• 花 - flower
• です - Ser/estar (linking verb)