Mnemonic
A hand clamps down on your shoulder. A phrase rings out: "You're under arrest!" The phrase alone wouldn't stop you, but paired with that iron hand squeezing your collarbone, you're not going anywhere. The arrest is sealed the moment hand meets phrase.
Additional thoughts
Picture a cop's firm hand on someone's shoulder as the iconic arrest phrase is declared — the two together make the detention real and inescapable.Quick recall
A hand on your shoulder and a phrase declared seal your arrest.Details
The keyword for 拘 is arrest. This kanji conveys the idea of seizing, detaining, or restraining someone, as in taking a person into custody. It also carries the broader sense of being bound or constrained by something, such as rules or conventions. The character thus encompasses both the physical act of apprehending someone and the more abstract notion of being restricted or held back.
- On'yomi
- こう
- Kun'yomi
- かか.わる