強欲 (Greed, Avarice, Strong Desire): Meaning & Origin – Japanese Kanji Design

Seven Deadly Sins

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“Gouyoku” embodies the powerful and often consuming human desire for more, a concept deeply explored across cultures. This kanji captures the essence of avarice, reflecting both its alluring and destructive nature.

Japanese Kanji

強欲
Romaji Reading Gouyoku
Core Meaning Greed, Avarice, Strong Desire
Nuance Insatiable, Materialism, Obsession
Design Guide

The atmosphere of a Kanji character changes dramatically depending on the font style. A character that looks elegant in a brush style might look bold and modern in a different font.

Recommendation:
Since a tattoo is permanent, we strongly recommend comparing various font styles beyond what is shown here. Use our designs as a trusted reference for the correct structure, but feel free to explore different artistic variations to find the perfect match for your vision.

The Deep Meaning Behind 強欲

The term 強欲 (Gouyoku) is a powerful descriptor for an intense, overwhelming desire. The first character, 強 (kyou/gou), signifies strength, power, or intensity, originally depicting a strong man or animal. The second character, 欲 (yoku), means desire, want, or craving, derived from a character hinting at a person ‘eating’ or craving something.

In both Japanese culture and global narratives, greed is often explored as a negative force leading to moral decay or social imbalance. As one of the ‘Seven Deadly Sins,’ its portrayal in literature, philosophy, and especially in popular media, where characters embody or battle avarice, further amplifies its cultural recognition and impact.

Kanji Breakdown

The combination of these two kanji vividly portrays the concept of insatiable desire.

Meaning: Strong, powerful, force. This character’s components often suggest might and power, reinforcing the idea of an intense or overwhelming quality.

Meaning: Desire, want, greed. This character implies a craving or a longing for something, often suggesting a sense of lacking what one wishes to acquire.

Conclusion

強欲 (Gouyoku) stands as a powerful symbol of greed, representing an insatiable craving that transcends mere necessity. Its meaning delves into the darker, complex aspects of human ambition and desire, making it a compelling subject for contemplation.

For those considering a kanji tattoo, “強欲” offers a visually striking and intellectually stimulating choice. It serves as a potent reminder of the complexities of human nature and the societal implications of unchecked desire, making it a truly impactful piece of personal expression.

⚠️ Important: Before You Get Inked

The Kanji designs and meanings on this site are for inspiration purposes. While we strive for accuracy, Japanese characters can have multiple nuances depending on the context.

Tattoos are permanent. We strongly recommend consulting with a native Japanese speaker or a professional tattoo artist to verify the design and meaning before getting a tattoo.

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