戦い

• Reading: たたかい
• Romaji: tatakai
• Kanji breakdown: 戦 (sen/tataka) — war, battle, fight
• Pronunciation: /ta.ta.ka.i/

Meaning

Battle; fight; combat; struggle. A contest between opposing forces.

The noun form of the verb 戦う (tatakau, to fight). Used for physical battles, competitions, and metaphorical struggles such as fighting an illness or overcoming challenges. Common in historical, sports, and personal growth contexts.

Examples

1. 選手たちの熱い戦いが始まった。 The heated battle between the athletes began.
2. 病気との戦いは長く続いた。 The fight against the illness went on for a long time.
3. この城は昔の戦いで大きな被害を受けた。 This castle sustained heavy damage in a battle long ago.

Usage Guide

Context: sports, history, personal struggle

Tone: intense

Origin & History

Derived from the verb 戦う (tatakau). The kanji 戦 combines 単 (single/alone) and 戈 (halberd), evoking the image of a warrior standing alone with a weapon.

Cultural Context

Era: Ancient

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal