Translation and Meaning of: 細かい - komakai

The Japanese word 細かい [こまかい] is a versatile term that can cause some confusion for language learners. Its meaning varies depending on the context, but it is generally related to details, nuances, or even the idea of something small and meticulous. In this article, we will explore what this word represents, how it is used in everyday Japanese, and some curiosities that can help solidify it in your vocabulary. Here at Suki Nihongo, we always strive to provide clear and practical explanations to facilitate your learning.

Meaning and usage of 細かい

細かい is an adjective that can be translated as "detailed," "meticulous," or "small," depending on the situation. When someone says that a work is 細かい, for example, they may be praising the attention to detail or criticizing the excessive concern with insignificant things. This duality makes the context essential for correctly interpreting the meaning of the word.

In everyday conversations, 細かい often appears to describe everything from physical objects to behaviors. A craftsman who works with delicate pieces can be called a 細かい人, just like someone who always corrects other people's small mistakes. The word carries a nuance that can be positive or negative, so it's important to observe the tone of the conversation to avoid misinterpreting the speaker's intention.

Origin and writing of kanji

The kanji 細 is composed of the radical 糸 (thread) and the component 田 (rice paddy), suggesting the idea of something thin like a thread or divided into small parts. This visual construction helps to understand why the word is associated with details and intricacies. The reading こまかい is one of several possible readings for this character, which can also be read as さい in words like 細菌 (bacteria).

It is worth noting that 細かい is not just about physical size, but also about the way we perceive and deal with things. The kanji itself already conveys this notion of something that has been carefully separated or analyzed into its smaller parts. This relationship between writing and meaning is a fascinating aspect of the Japanese language and can be helpful for memorizing the term.

Trivia and memorization tips

An effective way to 細かい is to associate it with concrete situations. Imagine someone reviewing a document with a magnifying glass or separating grains of rice one by one - these extreme images help to cement the concept of minuteness that the word conveys. Another tip is to notice that こまかい sounds like something that "breaks into smaller parts," which reinforces its meaning.

In Japanese culture, being 細かい can be both a virtue and a flaw, depending on the circumstance. In the workplace, for example, attention to detail is valued, but in personal relationships, excessive criticism over small things can be frowned upon. This ambiguity reflects how the Japanese language often relies on context to convey subtle nuances of meaning.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 細密な (samitsuna) - Extremely detailed, precise.
• 細かい (komakai) - Small, meticulous; used to describe something that has many details.
• 細やかな (komayakana) - Delicate, subtle; often related to careful attention or kindness.
• 細部にわたる (saibu ni wataru) - Covering the details; referring to something that considers all the specifics.
• 細部の (saibu no) - Of details; used to describe something that is related to detailed aspects.
• 細かい目の (komakai me no) - With a fine mesh; used to describe small textures or patterns.
• 細かい粒の (komakai tsubu no) - Of small grains; referring to tiny particles.
• 細かい模様の (komakai moyou no) - With small patterns; describes detailed drawings or decorations.
• 細かい線の (komakai sen no) - With fine lines; referring to meticulous drawings.
• 細かい点の (komakai ten no) - With small points; it can refer to details in lists or diagrams.
• 細かい字の (komakai ji no) - In small letters; refers to text in reduced size.
• 細かい音の (komakai on no) - With subtle sounds; describes minimal sound nuances.
• 細かい仕事の (komakai shigoto no) - Meticulous work; it refers to tasks that require attention to detail.
• 細かい手仕事の (komakai te-shigoto no) - Detailed manual work; refers to manual skills that involve precision.
• 細かい作業の (komakai sagyō no) - Small activities or delicate tasks; require care and precision.
• 細かい調整の (komakai chōsei no) - Meticulous adjustments; referring to detailed modifications.
• 細かい注意の (komakai chūi no) - Meticulous care; refers to the painstaking attention given to details.
• 細かい気配りの (komakai ki kubari no) - Detailed consideration; it describes careful attention to the feelings or needs of others.
• 細かい心配りの (komakai kokorikubari no) - Delicate concern; similar to "ki kubari", emphasizes attention to the needs of others.
• 細かい配慮の (komakai hairyo no) - Careful consideration; it measures the quality of thought given to something.
• 細かい気遣いの (komakai kizukai no) - Concerned attention; shows consideration for the feelings or states of others.