KanjiJLPT N1
Carve

carve, engrave, chisel

Mnemonic

A barber traces the circumference of your head, studying your hairstyle closely. Then he takes a razor and begins to carve intricate tribal patterns into the shaved sides. Around the full circumference, your hairstyle becomes a sculpted masterpiece.
Additional thoughts
Visualize a barber circling your entire head (circumference), examining the buzz cut (hairstyle), then using a blade to carve ornate designs. The circular path guides each carved line.
Quick recall
A barber follows the circumference of your hairstyle to carve intricate patterns into it.

Details

The keyword for 彫 is carve. This kanji refers to the act of cutting or sculpting into a hard surface, such as wood, stone, or metal, to create designs, patterns, or figures. It encompasses both the craft of engraving fine details and the broader art of sculpture. The character conveys the deliberate, skilled removal of material to produce something of artistic or functional value.
On'yomi
ちょう
Kun'yomi
ほ.る、-ぼ.り

Used in vocab