Meaning
The kanji 査 (SA) primarily means 'to investigate,' 'to examine,' 'to inspect,' and 'to check.' This character is key for expressing thorough scrutiny, often in official or systematic capacities. Whether it's a police investigation, a medical examination, or a quality inspection, 査 always implies a detailed and careful review.
Its etymological origin can be explored by examining its components. The left radical, 木 (ki), represents 'tree' or 'wood.' The right component, 余 (yo), means 'to remain,' 'surplus,' or 'to spare.' While 余 can also function as a phonetic component that gives the 'SA' sound, its semantic contribution offers several interpretations.
One common interpretation suggests checking or inspecting wood (木) for any remaining (余) defects, issues, or details that might have been overlooked. Another perspective links 余 to the idea of 'more than enough' or 'throughness.' This implies going through every detail, even the 'surplus' ones, to conduct a complete investigation.
Over time, the specific context of examining wood broadened into the general concept of thorough examination and investigation of anything. The visual shape thus represents a meticulous process: a base material (木) is scrutinized for any leftover (余) particulars. This kanji is a Joyo Kanji, meaning it is part of the set of characters designated for common use in Japan. It has a total of 9 strokes and is typically introduced in junior high school (though often categorized outside the elementary school grades 1-6).
Readings
On'yomi (音読み) — Chinese-derived readings
The on'yomi (Chinese-derived reading) of 査 is primarily サ (SA). This reading is used almost exclusively when 査 appears in compound words, especially in official review, investigation, or inspection processes. It's a consistent and predictable reading in these compounds, making it relatively straightforward for learners.
- 調査 (chōsa) — investigation, inquiry. This is one of the most common compounds, referring to the act of gathering information or facts about something.
- 検査 (kensa) — inspection, examination. This term is widely used in medical check-ups, product quality control, or safety inspections.
- 審査 (shinsa) — screening, review, judging. Often used for evaluating applications, qualifications, or performances, such as in job applications or contests.
Kun'yomi (訓読み) — Native Japanese readings
The kanji 査 (SA) does not have a commonly used standalone kun'yomi (native Japanese reading). Unlike many kanji that function as standalone verbs or adjectives with okurigana, 査 is almost exclusively used as a component within compound words, relying primarily on its on'yomi. Its meaning is typically conveyed through these compounds or through other native Japanese verbs such as 調べる (shiraberu, to investigate) or 検査する (kensa suru, to inspect).
Common Words & Compounds
The kanji 査 appears in numerous compound words related to various forms of scrutiny and investigation. These compounds are frequently encountered in official, legal, scientific, and business contexts, making them crucial vocabulary for N3 learners and beyond.
Official Processes & Verification
- 調査 (chōsa) — investigation, inquiry, survey. This broad term covers any systematic attempt to discover facts or information.
- 検査 (kensa) — inspection, examination, test. Often applies to physical checks, like medical exams or product quality tests.
- 審査 (shinsa) — screening, review, judging. This refers to the process of evaluating something against specific criteria, such as reviewing documents or judging entries.
- 捜査 (sōsa) — (criminal) investigation, search. Specifically used in legal or police contexts for investigating crimes.
- 査証 (sashō) — visa. An official endorsement on a passport indicating that the holder is allowed to enter, leave, or transit through a particular country.
Action & Analysis
- 監査 (kansa) — audit, inspection. A formal examination of an organization's accounts, financial records, or practices.
- 精査 (seisa) — close examination, scrutiny. Implies a very detailed and thorough review.
- 査定 (satei) — assessment, evaluation. Determining the value, price, or quality of something.
- 査閲 (saetsu) — inspection, perusal (of documents). A formal review of records or documents.
- 再査 (saisa) — re-examination, re-inspection. The act of performing an investigation or examination again.
Roles & Titles
- 検査官 (kensakan) — inspector, examiner. A person whose job is to inspect or examine things, often in an official capacity.
- 監査役 (kansayaku) — auditor. An official who conducts audits.
Example Sentences
警察は事件の調査を始めた。
Keisatsu wa jiken no chōsa o hajimeta.
The police began an investigation into the incident.
健康診断で血液を検査した。
Kenkō shindan de ketsueki o kensa shita.
I had my blood examined during the health check-up.
ビザの申請には、厳重な審査がある。
Biza no shinsei ni wa, genjū na shinsa ga aru.
There is a strict screening process for visa applications.
この製品は毎日品質が検査されます。
Kono seihin wa mainichi hinshitsu ga kensa saremasu.
The quality of this product is inspected daily.
不正行為の疑いで、会社が監査を受けた。
Fusei kōi no utagai de, kaisha ga kansa o uketa.
The company underwent an audit due to suspicion of misconduct.
このデータはさらに精査する必要がある。
Kono dēta wa sarani seisa suru hitsuyō ga aru.
This data needs further close examination.
警察は事件現場を徹底的に捜査した。
Keisatsu wa jiken genba o tetteiteki ni sōsa shita.
The police thoroughly investigated the crime scene.
査定の結果、この車の価値はかなり高いとわかった。
Satei no kekka, kono kuruma no kachi wa kanari takai to wakatta.
As a result of the assessment, it was found that this car's value is quite high.
海外へ行く前に、必ず査証を申請してください。
Kaigai e iku mae ni, kanarazu sashō o shinsei shite kudasai.
Before going abroad, please make sure to apply for a visa.
彼は入国審査官として働いている。
Kare wa nyūkoku shinsakan to shite hataraite iru.
He works as an immigration inspector.
Memory Tip
To remember the kanji 査 (SA), think of its components: 木 (tree/wood) on the left and 余 (surplus/remain) on the right. Imagine yourself as a quality control inspector in a lumberyard. Your job is to thoroughly investigate every piece of wood (木) for any remaining (余) defects, knots, or weaknesses. You have to meticulously inspect each plank to ensure there is no surplus of flaws. This mental image of carefully examining wood for anything left over firmly connects to 査's meaning of 'investigate' or 'examine.' So, remember: Investigate the wood (木) for anything remaining (余).