Translation and Meaning of: 側面 - sokumen

On this page, we will study the meaning of the Japanese word 側面 (sokumen) and its translation into English. Let's see their different meanings, example phrases, explanations, etymology and the similar words.

Romaji: sokumen

Kana: そくめん

Type: noun

L: jlpt-n1

側面

Translation / Meaning: side; flank; side light; side

Meaning in English: side;flank;sidelight;lateral

Definition: A direction of things. A direction of things.

Sumário
- Etymology
- Vocabulary
- Writing
- Phrases

Explanation and Etymology - (側面) sokumen

The Japanese word 「側面」 (sokumen) is composed of the kanji characters 「側」 and 「面」. Individually, 「側」 (soku) means "side" or "flank", while 「面」 (men) refers to "surface", "face", or "aspect". When combined, they form the expression that is usually translated as "lateral", "aspect", or "facet". This combination of kanji is a classic example of how the Japanese language often merges individual meanings to create more complex and comprehensive terms.

In the etymology of 「側面」, the kanji 「側」 has the radical 「亻」 (ninben), which is associated with people and lateral references, while 「面」 has the radical 「面」 (men), which relates to surfaces and faces. This construction suggests a dimension that is both physical and metaphorical, where not only the physical side of an object is discussed, but also its different perspectives or nuances.

The use of the word 「側面」 is quite versatile. It can be used to refer to different aspects of a situation or subject, exploring its various dimensions. In everyday or technical contexts, it can describe sides of a building, parts of a device, or facets of a dilemma. This multifaceted aspect makes 「側面」 a fundamental word for expressing the complexity of themes in the Japanese language.

The origin of the word is deeply rooted in Japanese culture and literature, reflecting a worldview that values the multiplicity of perspectives. In the contemporary world, 「側面」 continues to be an important word for discussing complex themes, whether in literature, social sciences, or philosophical discussions about human and social nature.

Synonyms and similar words

側面 (sokumen) - side, outside of something
横面 (yokomen) - lateral side, lateral face
サイド (saido) - side
サイド面 (saido men) - lateral face, specifically referring to the side of a surface
フランク (furanku) - franco, in an informal context, can refer to a straightforward or direct side.
フランク面 (furanku men) - face value, referring to a straightforward or transparent side