Mnemonic
Beyond the gate of the prison courtyard, a knife hangs from iron chains — the instrument used to punish the condemned. Every prisoner who passes through that gate sees the knife gleaming and knows their fate is sealed by the court's sentence.
Additional thoughts
Picture a heavy iron gate swinging open to reveal a ceremonial blade — the two images fuse into the idea of formal, legal punishment. Gate = entryway to justice; Knife = the sharp consequence waiting inside.Quick recall
A knife hanging beyond the gate is how they punish the condemned.Details
The keyword for 刑 is punish. This kanji refers to punishment, penalty, or criminal sentencing, particularly in a legal or judicial context. It conveys the idea of imposing consequences for wrongdoing, often carrying a formal and severe connotation associated with the justice system. It is commonly used in words related to criminal law, sentences, and penal codes.
- On'yomi
- けい