側面

• Reading: そくめん
• Romaji: sokumen
• Kanji breakdown: 側 (soku/gawa) — side, beside; 面 (men/omote) — surface, face, aspect
• Pronunciation: /so.kɯ.meɴ/

Meaning

Side; flank; lateral surface. Also used figuratively for a facet or aspect of something.

Used both literally (the side of a building, object, or formation) and figuratively (an aspect or dimension of a problem, situation, or personality). In figurative use, it often appears in phrases like ～という側面がある (has the aspect of) and 側面から見る (to look at from the perspective of). Common in analytical and academic writing.

Examples

1. この問題には経済的な側面もある。 This issue also has an economic aspect.
2. 建物の側面に大きな看板が設置された。 A large sign was installed on the side of the building.
3. 彼女の性格の意外な側面を知った。 I discovered an unexpected side of her personality.

Usage Guide

Context: academic, analysis, architecture, discussion

Tone: analytical

Origin & History

Compound of 側 (soku, side) + 面 (men, surface/face). Literally 'side surface,' applicable to both physical sides and abstract facets.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal