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Kotomora

磋

polish

Strokes15

Readings

On'yomi

  • サ

Kun'yomi

  • みが.く

Meaning

磋 centers on the act of polishing or refining a surface, especially by rubbing with an abrasive like stone. The meaning is straightforward and concrete.

Most common words using 磋

  • 切磋琢磨せっさたくま

    diligent application (to work or study); cultivating one's character by studying hard

  • 切磋せっさ

    working hard; applying oneself; cultivating one's character (through hard work or study)

Explore all words using 磋 →

Study

Etymology

磋 combines 石 (stone) with 差, which likely contributes the sound. The stone radical suggests polishing or grinding with a stone.

Meaning mnemonic

The left side is a stone 石, and the right side 差 looks like a hand holding a tool. Imagine using a stone to polish a rough surface until it shines.

Reading mnemonic

For サ, picture polishing a surface with sand: sand -> サ, and the stone 石 helps you polish.