線

Phono-semantic compound:

糸 (mì, “fine thread, silk”) — semantic, indicates relation to textiles or strings.

泉 (quán, “spring, source”) — phonetic, provides the sound.

The combination conveys the image of flowing silk threads, extending continuously like water from a spring — symbolizing continuity, connection, and linkage.

直線 (직선) — straight line

曲線 (곡선) — curve

無線 (무선) — wireless

電話線 (전화선) — telephone wire

前線 (전선) — frontline

紅線 (홍선) — the “red thread” of fate (symbol of destined connection)

In Korean, 線 (선) appears widely in technical and poetic contexts alike — from 전선 (electric wire) to 인연의 실 (thread of destiny).

In East Asian art and literature, 線 symbolizes connection, continuity, and fate.

The myth of the “red thread of destiny” (紅線 / 赤線) describes invisible lines linking destined lovers, reflecting an ancient belief in interwoven human fates.

In calligraphy and painting, 線 also represents the flow of brush strokes, embodying both form and spirit (氣韻生動).

Artistic note:

In Chinese and East Asian calligraphy, the concept of 線 is fundamental.

Every brushstroke is viewed as a living line (活線) — a visible manifestation of the artist’s energy (氣勢 qìshì) and inner spirit (氣韻生動 qìyùn shēngdòng).

A good line is said to “breathe”, conveying rhythm, direction, and vitality.

In ink painting (水墨畫), 線 expresses not only form but also essence — mountains, figures, and even emptiness are defined by the expressive movement of line.

Thus, 線 embodies both structure and life-force, uniting technical precision with spiritual resonance.