Mnemonic
You slide money across the desk to someone who possesses the stamp of approval you desperately need. That bribe greases the wheels instantly — your shady building permit gets approved before the ink even dries, and the official pockets the cash under his robes.
Additional thoughts
Picture crisp bills fanning out on a mahogany desk, a rubber stamp slamming down. Money + someone who possesses authority = bribe. The possess radical reminds you only someone with power is worth bribing.Quick recall
Slip money to whoever possesses power — that's a bribe.Details
The keyword for 賄 is bribe. This kanji refers to the act of offering money, gifts, or other valuables to someone in a position of authority in order to influence their decisions or actions dishonestly. It carries a strongly negative connotation, implying corruption and illicit dealings. The character is closely associated with the concept of under-the-table payments meant to secure unfair advantages.
- On'yomi
- わい
- Kun'yomi
- まかな.う