1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji 詳 (shou) means “detailed” or “to explain in detail.” It conveys the idea of providing thorough information or clarity about a subject.
2. Formation and Radical
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji 詳 is a phonetic-ideographic character (形声文字). It combines the radical 言 (speech) with the phonetic component 詳, which suggests the meaning related to speaking or explaining.
Radical: The radical of 詳 is 言, which is associated with words, speech, and language.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases: Some frequently used words that include 詳 are:
- 詳細 (shousai) – details
- 詳述 (shoujutsu) – to describe in detail
Example Sentences in Daily Conversation:
- このプロジェクトの詳細を教えてください。 (Kono purojekuto no shousai o oshiete kudasai.) – Please tell me the details of this project.
- 彼はその問題を詳しく説明しました。 (Kare wa sono mondai o kuwashiku setsumei shimashita.) – He explained the issue in detail.
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji: A kanji with a similar meaning is 明確 (meikaku), which means “clear” or “definite.” The difference lies in that 詳 emphasizes detail, while 明確 focuses on clarity.
Opposite Kanji: An antonym of 詳 is 粗 (so), which means “rough” or “coarse,” indicating a lack of detail or precision.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Relation to Japanese Culture: The concept of providing detailed explanations is highly valued in Japanese culture, especially in contexts like business and education, where clarity and thoroughness are essential.
Proverbs and Idioms: One relevant proverb is 詳しく説明する (kuwashiku setsumei suru), which means “to explain in detail,” highlighting the importance of thorough communication in Japanese society.