taru-adjective, adverb taking the 'to' particle
Describes a clear, unmistakable distinction or separation, often used in formal or literary contexts. Functions as a taru-adjective or adverb with と.
Their opinions were clearly divided.
It shows a sharp distinction between good and evil.
截然 is a near-synonym also meaning 'clear-cut' or 'distinct', but 画然 is slightly more common and often preferred in modern formal writing.
Standard modern kanji spelling.
Older variant using the traditional form of the kanji; rarely seen in modern writing.
From the kanji 画 (drawing, boundary) and 然 (state, condition), suggesting a state of being clearly delineated. The exact historical derivation is uncertain.