寸法

• Reading: すんぽう
• Romaji: sunpō
• Kanji breakdown: 寸 (sun) — traditional length unit; 法 (pō) — method, standard
• Pronunciation: /sɯmpoː/

Meaning

Measurement; dimension; size; by extension, a plan or scheme.

A noun with two main senses. The literal sense refers to the measured dimensions of an object (length, width, height). The figurative sense means a plan or calculated scheme — e.g., その寸法か (so that's your game) — reflecting the idea of precise, pre-measured calculation behind an action.

Examples

1. 家具を注文する前に部屋の寸法を正確に測った。 I measured the room's dimensions precisely before ordering furniture.
2. 着物の寸法直しを呉服店に頼んだ。 I asked a kimono shop to alter the measurements of my kimono.
3. なるほど、そういう寸法で動いていたわけか。 I see — so that's the scheme you've been working with.

Usage Guide

Context: crafts, tailoring, construction, informal planning

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Originally from 寸 (a traditional unit of length, approx. 3 cm) and 法 (method, standard). Refers to measuring by the traditional unit, then extended to any careful measurement or plan.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical–Present

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal