Mnemonic
Imagine a cliff tipping forward, slamming down onto a mound of earth below. The earth compresses, cracks, and flattens under the massive weight. Feel that crushing pressure—the cliff grinding the earth into dust with relentless, downward force.
Additional thoughts
The kanji 圧 literally stacks the cliff radical (厂) on top of earth (土). Visualize the cliff as an enormous overhang pressing straight down—its structure mirrors the meaning perfectly.Quick recall
A cliff crashes onto earth, creating crushing pressure.Details
The keyword for 圧 is pressure. This kanji conveys the concept of applying force or weight upon something, pressing it down or compressing it. It encompasses both physical pressure, such as atmospheric or hydraulic force, and figurative pressure, such as coercion or oppression exerted upon people. The character captures the essential idea of a heavy, downward-bearing force acting upon something beneath it.
- On'yomi
- あつ、えん、おう
- Kun'yomi
- お.す、へ.す、おさ.える、お.さえる