CHARACTER HOME PAGE

to imitate
Kanji 1798

Thank you for visiting this Character Home Page. Below you'll find a synopsis of the essay. If you wish to read the full text, the PDF of the essay is available for purchase to the right.

Synopsis

Although 倣 pops up in words for “copycat” and “counterfeit goods,” it’s not all bad. Imitation may lead to innovation. As one Japanese writer said, “Imitation is the mother of originality, its only real mother.” Our kanji also factors into terms for following in people’s footsteps. Back on the dark side, find out what the “Trump Cannon” is, and see why the Asahi Shimbun is hated!

Revision history:

Feb. 7, 2022:

  • p. 2, Etymology Box: Updated the Henshall etymology.
  • p. 12: Added a link to the Kanshudo games.

Oct. 27, 2017: Originally published.

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Kanji PDF
Cover of essay 1798 on 倣, titled "The Sincerest Form of Flattery"
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JOYO ON-YOMI
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