Quick answer
差 is the kanji for "Difference". Its reading is さ.す (sasu). This page includes example sentences and a stroke-order diagram.
Meaning
Difference
Also : Margin · Variation · Distinction
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Readings
kun = Japanese reading · on = Chinese reading
Practice writing
Trace the kanji stroke by stroke with a visual guide.
Stroke Order
10 strokes
Radicals
Memory Aid
The kanji 差 represents 'DISTINCTION'. Think of this shape as a picture representing the concept of distinction.
On-reading: さ — remember this sound by associating it with distinction. Kun-reading: さ.す.
Example Sentences
両者の差は小さいです。
りょうしゃのさはちいさいです。
The difference between both parties is small.
差別のない社会を目指しています。
さべつのないしゃかいをめざしています。
We're aiming for a society without discrimination.
Vocabulary using 差
Grammar to study at this level
- [Verb dictionary/nai form] + ように～ように (you ni) - So that
- [Verb dictionary form] + ことにする～ことにする (koto ni suru) - Decide to
- [Verb dictionary form] + ことになる～ことになる (koto ni naru) - It has been decided that
- [Noun/Verb te-form] + ばかり～ばかり (bakari) - Only / Nothing but
- [Verb/Adjective plain form] + はずだ～はずだ (hazu da) - Should be / It is expected
Last updated Jun 11, 2026
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