貢
Mnemonic
A carpenter finishes building the emperor's grand throne room, then kneels and pours every last coin of his money onto the floor as tribute. Every wage he earned constructing the palace—offered right back. The carpenter's tribute proves his absolute devotion to the crown.
Additional thoughts
Picture the carpenter on his knees, sawdust still on his clothes, pouring a heavy pouch of coins before the throne. Work (carpenter) on top, wealth (money) below—everything flows upward to the ruler. The irony of giving back what you earned makes it stick.Quick recall
The carpenter pours all his money before the throne as tribute.Details
The keyword for 貢 is tribute. This kanji refers to the act of offering goods, money, or services to a ruler, government, or superior authority as a form of obligation or loyalty. In ancient times, it specifically denoted the payments or gifts that vassal states or subjects would present to their sovereign. By extension, it also carries the meaning of making a contribution or offering something of value to a greater cause.
- On'yomi
- こう、く
- Kun'yomi
- みつ.ぐ