The kanji 調 is remarkably versatile, appearing in countless compounds across diverse fields. Here are some key examples, grouped by their thematic usage:
Investigation & Information
- 調査 (chōsa) — investigation, survey, research
The police are conducting a thorough investigation.
- 調べる (shiraberu) — to investigate, to check, to look up
Please check the train schedule.
- 調書 (chōsho) — protocol, record, investigative report
The incident report was filed.
Adjustment & Condition
- 調整 (chōsei) — adjustment, regulation, coordination
We need to make some adjustments to the plan.
- 調子 (chōshi) — condition, state, tone, rhythm
My physical condition is not good today.
- 調和 (chōwa) — harmony, agreement
The colors in the painting are in perfect harmony.
- 調える (totonoeru) — to arrange, to prepare, to adjust
I need to prepare my clothes for the trip.
- 調味料 (chōmiryō) — seasoning, condiment
Soy sauce is a common Japanese seasoning.
Music & Sound
- 音調 (onchō) — tone, accent, intonation
He spoke with a gentle tone of voice.
- 長調 (chōchō) — major key (music)
This song is in the major key.
- 短調 (tanchō) — minor key (music)
The melody was in a sad minor key.
Other Uses
- 気調 (kichō) — trend, keynote
The keynote speech set the trend for the conference.
Example Sentences
図書館で必要な資料を調べた。
Toshokan de hitsuyō na shiryō wo shirabeta.
I researched the necessary materials at the library.
エアコンの温度を少し調せいしてください。
Eakon no ondo wo sukoshi chōsei shite kudasai.
Please adjust the air conditioner's temperature a little.
最近体の調子がよくありません。
Saikin karada no chōshi ga yoku arimasen.
My physical condition hasn't been good lately.
会議の準備がすべて調った。
Kaigi no junbi ga subete totonotta.
All preparations for the meeting are complete.
音楽と景色が見事に調和していた。
Ongaku to keshiki ga migoto ni chōwa shite ita.
The music and scenery were beautifully harmonized.
彼は楽器を正確に調えるのが上手だ。
Kare wa gakki wo seikaku ni totonoeru no ga jōzu da.
He is skilled at precisely tuning musical instruments.
この事件について詳しく調査する必要がある。
Kono jiken ni tsuite kuwashiku chōsa suru hitsuyō ga aru.
It is necessary to thoroughly investigate this incident.
その料理には様々な調味料が使われている。
Sono ryōri ni wa samazama na chōmiryō ga tsukawarete iru.
Various seasonings are used in that dish.
プレゼンテーションの内容をもう一度調べてみよう。
Purezentēshon no naiyō wo mō ichido shirabete miyō.
Let's check the content of the presentation one more time.
彼の話の調子から、彼の感情を察した。
Kare no hanashi no chōshi kara, kare no kanjō wo sasshita.
From the tone of his voice, I sensed his emotions.
Memory Tip
To remember 調, think of its components: 言 (speech, words) and 周 (around, circumference, complete). Imagine a detective using their "words" (言) to "go around" (周) and "investigate" every aspect of a case, "adjusting" their theories until they have a "complete" understanding. Alternatively, visualize a conductor using "words" (言) to "orchestrate" (周) and "tune" an orchestra, ensuring every instrument is in "harmony" and the performance is "arranged" perfectly. The 15 strokes might seem intimidating at first, but remembering the components helps solidify the actions of thorough inquiry and and precise arrangement.