noun
Refers to the background reasons or circumstances behind a situation, often used in formal or explanatory contexts.
遅刻の子細を説明してください。
Please explain the circumstances of your lateness.
noun, na-adjective
details; particulars; significance
Focuses on the finer points or deeper meaning of something; can be used as a noun or adjectival noun (e.g., 子細な点).
契約の子細を確認する必要がある。
We need to check the details of the contract.
彼は子細な点までよく気がつく。
He notices even the smallest details.
noun
hindrance; objection; inconvenience
Used in negative constructions (e.g., 子細はない) to mean there is no problem or objection. Common in formal or written language.
この計画に子細はありません。
I have no objection to this plan.
The kanji 子 (child, small) and 細 (fine, detailed) combine to suggest 'small details'. The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but the word has been used in formal Japanese for centuries.