智

Phono-semantic compound, later also influenced by semantic reinterpretation:

知 (알 지) — “to know, to understand” (base meaning)

曰 (가로 왈) — phonetic element, but also reinforces the idea of speech and teaching

Originally in oracle bone script, the related form combined 干 (shield) + 矢 (arrow) + 口 (mouth), symbolizing the oral transmission of experience from hunting/warfare.

In bronze script, this shifted: 干 was dropped, 曰 was added, leading to the stabilized form 智.

智慧 (지혜) — wisdom, sagacity

智能 (지능) — intelligence, ability

智者 (지자) — wise person

智謀 (지모) — resourcefulness, strategic wisdom

智育 (지육) — intellectual education

Distinguished from 知 (to know, to understand). While 知 is primarily verbal (“to know”), 智 is nominal/abstract (“wisdom, intelligence”).

One of the Five Constant Virtues (五常, 오상) in Confucianism: 仁義禮智信 (benevolence, righteousness, propriety, wisdom, faith).

Tone difference in Classical Chinese: 知 (평성) vs. 智 (거성).

The original form is given as 𥏼, now considered the archaic form of 智.