Translation and Meaning of: 差 - sa

The Japanese word 差[さ] is a versatile term frequently used in the language, carrying meanings that range from differences to intervals and margins. Whether you are studying Japanese or simply curious about this expression, understanding its correct usage and cultural context can be extremely helpful. In this article, we will explore the meaning, origin, and practical uses of 差[さ], as well as tips for memorization and examples from everyday life.

Meaning and use of 差[さ]

差[さ] is a noun that generally refers to a difference, disparity, or interval between two things. It can be used in mathematical contexts, such as in calculations of differences between numbers, or in everyday situations to compare distinct characteristics. For example, when talking about the height difference between two people, you can use 差[さ] to clearly express that idea.

Additionally, 差[さ] also appears in compound expressions, such as 温度差[おんどさ] (temperature difference) or 年齢差[ねんれいさ] (age difference). These combinations are common and help specify the type of difference being discussed, making the word even more useful in everyday conversations.

Origin and etymology of 差[さ]

The kanji 差 is composed of the radical 工 (work) and 左 (left), suggesting an idea of deviation or divergence. Historically, this character was used in China before being incorporated into Japanese, maintaining its core meaning of difference or distinction. The reading さ (sa) is one of the kun'yomi forms, that is, the native Japanese pronunciation associated with the kanji.

It is worth noting that 差[さ] is not an old or obsolete word. On the contrary, it continues to be widely used in modern Japanese, both in formal and informal language. Its presence in academic texts, news, and everyday conversations proves its relevance over the years.

Tips for memorizing 差[さ]

An effective way to fix the meaning of 差[さ] is to associate it with concrete situations. Think of examples like the price difference between two products or the time interval between two events. Creating flashcards with practical sentences can also help, especially if you are using apps like Anki for review.

Another tip is to pay attention to the kanji 差 in compound words. Observing how it appears in terms like 差別[さべつ] (discrimination) or 差し支え[さしつかえ] (obstacle) reinforces its central meaning of "difference" or "divergence". The more familiar you become with these uses, the more natural it will be to remember the word.

Curiosities about 差[さ]

In some regional dialects of Japan, 差[さ] may have slight variations in pronunciation, but its meaning remains the same. Additionally, this word is not usually used in isolation in proverbs or idiomatic expressions, but its presence in technical and everyday terms makes it indispensable.

An interesting fact is that 差[さ] can also appear in abstract contexts, such as in discussions about social inequality or variations in opinion. In these cases, it carries significant weight, showing how an apparently simple word can have deep layers of meaning.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 違い (chigai) - Difference in general; difference of opinion or state.
• 差異 (sai) - Difference or discrepancy; used to indicate subtle variations.
• 相違 (soui) - Divergence; emphasizes the difference between two or more compared items.
• 差分 (sahen) - Decrease or difference between sets or values; used in mathematical contexts.
• 差異点 (saiiten) - Point of difference; refers to aspects or elements that differ in something.

差

Romaji: sa
Kana: さ
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n3

Translation / Meaning: difference; variation

Meaning in English: difference;variation

Definition: Different things. difference.

Example Sentences - (差) sa

See below some example sentences:

私は手紙を差し出す。

Watashi wa tegami wo sashidasu

I deliver the letter.

I give a letter.

• 私 (watashi) - personal pronoun that means "I"
• は (wa) - particle that indicates the topic of the sentence, in this case "I"
• 手紙 (tegami) - noun meaning "letter"
• を (wo) - particle that indicates the direct object of the sentence, in this case "letter"
• 差し出す (sashidasu) - verb meaning "to deliver"

誤差は許容範囲内です。

Gosa wa kyoyou han'i nai desu

The error is within tolerance.

• 誤差 - error
• は - Topic particle
• 許容範囲 - tolerance margin
• 内 - inside
• です - Verb to be/estar in the present