堅
Mnemonic
A loyal retainer drives his boots into the earth once more, packing the soil so tightly it becomes firm as stone. He stomps again and again—this castle foundation will never crack or yield. The retainer won't stop until every inch of earth is rock-solid beneath his feet.
Additional thoughts
Picture a samurai retainer stomping earth flat repeatedly (once more, once more!) to create an unbreakable foundation. The repetition of stamping connects 'once more' to the firmness of compacted ground.Quick recall
A retainer stamps the earth once more, packing it firm as stone.Details
The keyword for 堅 is firm. This kanji conveys the idea of something being solid, hard, and unyielding—both in a physical and metaphorical sense. It describes objects that are rigid and difficult to break, as well as people or attitudes that are steadfast, resolute, and unwavering. It carries a sense of reliability and dependability rooted in strength and stability.
- On'yomi
- けん
- Kun'yomi
- かた.い、-がた.い