勝

Phono-semantic compound:

力 (“strength, power”) provides the semantic element, emphasizing physical or martial force.

Phonetic component debated:

Shuowen Jiezi (説文解字) interprets it as from 朕 (myself, imperial “I”) + 力;

Epigraphic evidence (Qin, Chu scripts) shows derivation from 乘 (to ride, to bear) + 力, suggesting the sense of “to bear with strength, to overcome.”

Semantic range:

- to win, to overcome (이기다, 승리하다);

- to excel, surpass (뛰어나다, 능가하다);

- to endure, to bear (견디다, 감당하다);

- beautiful, excellent (e.g. 名勝 “famous scenic place”).

勝利 (승리) — victory, triumph

優勝 (우승) — championship, to win first place

戰勝 (전승) — to defeat in war

名勝 (명승) — famous place, scenic spot

勝於 (승어) — to be superior to, better than

In Confucian and Daoist texts, 勝 can imply not only outward victory but also moral or spiritual mastery—“to conquer the self” (克己勝私, overcoming selfish desires) is considered the highest form of victory.

In Buddhism, the character is frequently paired with “法” (Dharma) or “魔” (Māra), denoting spiritual conquest.