肘
Mnemonic
By the light of the moon, you stretch out your arm and use your elbow as a hinge to take a measurement of the moon's height above the horizon. Ancient navigators would bend at the elbow, sighting along their forearm to their fist — one fist-width equaled a precise celestial measurement.
Additional thoughts
Picture yourself on a ship at night, bending your elbow to measure the moon's altitude with your outstretched arm. The body itself becomes a measuring tool, with the elbow as its critical pivot point.Quick recall
Bend your elbow under the moon to take a measurement of the sky.Details
The keyword for 肘 is elbow. This kanji refers to the joint in the middle of the arm that allows it to bend, connecting the upper arm to the forearm. It is used in both literal anatomical contexts and figurative expressions, such as being close at hand or being nudged aside. The character captures the essential idea of this pivotal body joint that enables a wide range of arm movements.
- On'yomi
- ちゅう
- Kun'yomi
- ひじ