像

• Reading: ぞう
• Romaji: zou
• Kanji breakdown: 像 (zou) — statue, image, figure
• Pronunciation: /zoː/

Meaning

Statue; image; figure. A representation of a person or thing in sculpture or art.

A noun and suffix used for statues, images, and representations. As a standalone word: 銅像 (douzou, bronze statue), 仏像 (butsuzou, Buddha statue), 石像 (sekizou, stone statue). As a suffix meaning 'image of': 自画像 (jigazou, self-portrait), 映像 (eizou, video/visual image). Often encountered at temples, parks, and museums throughout Japan.

Examples

1. 公園の真ん中に大きな銅像が立っている。 A large bronze statue stands in the middle of the park.
2. 奈良の大仏は有名な仏像だ。 The Great Buddha of Nara is a famous Buddhist statue.
3. 美術館で古代の像を見て感動した。 I was moved by the ancient statues I saw at the art museum.

Usage Guide

Context: art, temples, public spaces

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

The kanji 像 combines 人 (person) and 象 (elephant/image). The 象 component contributes the meaning of 'representation' or 'likeness,' yielding a character meaning a crafted image of a person or figure.

Cultural Context

Era: Ancient

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal