弱い
よわい · yowai · JLPT N5 · i-adj
weak
🥀 弱 = two bent bows, each frayed: yo-why so weak?
The kanji 弱 doubles 弓 (bow) with small strokes often read as fraying or feathers: a bow that has lost its tension is weak. Sound hook: yowai is close to yo, why? — the question you ask when something gives out. Opposite: 強い (tsuyoi), strong.
弱 — two 弓 (bows) + two 彡 (feathers/strokes)
Originally depicted two bent bows with drooping feathers or fine hairs, suggesting something pliant and weak. The doubled 弓 emphasizes flexibility, while 彡 evokes delicate, thin strands. The image of a soft, bending bow extended to mean 'weak,' 'frail,' or 'young.'