noun
cursive-style character; cursive script
Refers to characters written in a flowing, connected style, often used in calligraphy or historical documents. Can be difficult for modern readers to decipher.
古文書のくずし字を読むのは難しい。
Reading cursive characters in old documents is difficult.
くずし字の練習帳を買った。
I bought a practice book for cursive script.
草書 is a specific calligraphic style (cursive script), while くずし字 is a broader term for any cursive or semi-cursive handwritten character, including everyday handwriting.
行書 is a semi-cursive style that is more legible than full cursive; くずし字 can include 行書 but often implies more abbreviated forms.
Compound of くずし (continuative form of 崩す 'to break down, to simplify') + 字 ('character'). The term refers to simplified or cursive handwritten characters.