Quote:
Originally Posted by ColinHowell
I'm completely ignorant of the proper way to write this word, but I do find it curious (and, I suppose, potentially confusing) that its WWWJDIC entry shows it in kanji like any other word, with no hint that it is a word usually written in kana (i.e., the entry has no "uk" code). |
With all due respect to Jim Breen (and I really do mean that), the WWWJDIC is not perfect—it's a dictionary compiled by a non-native speaker with contributions from random people online. You'll find that there's a link on the page that still solicits corrections and contributions.
It's a GREAT reference, but "WWWJDIC says otherwise" isn't always a winning argument.
You'll find words like 是非 written in kanji in the WWWJDIC, too, but it's considered poor form to write ぜひ in kanji. Same with 有り難う御座います（ありがとうございます）、御目出 度う（おめでとう）, etc.
Hell, I can extend this statement to really include any dictionary. You'll find "ain't" is in the dictionary, but it does not change the fact that writing "ain't" in an essay is typically considered poor writing. Even though "ain't" was originally a correct contraction for "am not."
Just rest assured you will, over time, develop an eye for this sort of thing. I used to be as kanji-happy as most new learners, but over time, I learned to sense (and I'm still not perfect) when to use kanji and when not. It's like learning irregular verbs—you see the exceptions enough and you internalize them.
In general, if it's a word you've known and read in Japanese for 2+ years and just now go "hey, this is the kanji for it!" then you shouldn't use kanji for it. There's a reason you haven't seen it in kanji before.
