noun, noun, used as a suffix
General term for a written work or document; also used as a suffix in compound words like 参考書 (reference book) or 証明書 (certificate).
この書は江戸時代に書かれた。
This book was written in the Edo period.
必要書類を提出してください。
Please submit the necessary documents.
noun
Refers to the art of beautiful writing, especially Chinese-style calligraphy. Often used in contexts like 書道 (calligraphy) or 書を習う (learn calligraphy).
彼は書の達人だ。
He is a master of calligraphy.
noun
Refers to the style or quality of a person's handwriting. Often used in phrases like 書が上手い (have good handwriting).
彼の書はとても読みやすい。
His handwriting is very easy to read.
noun
A written message or correspondence. Slightly formal; in casual contexts, 手紙 is more common.
お礼の書をしたためる。
I write a letter of thanks.
手紙 is the standard word for 'letter'. 書 in the sense of 'letter' is more formal and less common in casual conversation.
書道 specifically refers to the art of calligraphy, while 書 can mean calligraphy more broadly or refer to a piece of calligraphic work.
From Middle Chinese 書 (syo). The character originally depicted a hand holding a brush, representing writing. The Japanese reading しょ is the on'yomi.