1. Kanji Breakdown: 佐
This kanji represents a supportive and assisting role.
Meaning: To assist, to help; aid; assistant.
Reading:
Onyomi (Sino-Japanese reading): サ (sa)
Kunyomi (Native Japanese reading): すけ (suke)
The kanji is a phono-semantic compound (形声文字). It consists of two parts:
Left (亻): This is the "person" radical (にんべん).
Right (左): This means "left," and it also provides the sound ("sa").
The original meaning comes from the idea that in ancient times, the "left-hand side" (左) was the position of the "assistant" (亻). The primary or senior person would often occupy the central or right position, while the aide or helper stood on the left to support them. Thus, the character embodies the meaning of "a person who assists."
2. Stroke Order and Writing
Learning the correct stroke order is crucial for balanced and beautiful kanji. "佐" has 7 strokes.
Here is the stroke order diagram and explanation:
Total Strokes: 7
Start with the left radical "亻" (person radical):
Then, write the right part "左":
Key Writing Tips:
Write from left to right, top to bottom.
The left radical "亻" is narrow.
The right part "左" is wider. Pay attention to the correct stroke order for the "ナ" top and the "工" bottom.
The overall character should be well-balanced and upright.
3. Vocabulary and Example Sentences
Here are some common words and names using "佐" and how to use them in sentences.
Vocabulary
佐 (さ, sa / すけ, suke)
Meaning: A common suffix in male given names and official titles meaning "assistant" or "aide."
Example: 私の名前は佐藤です。
Romaji: Watashi no namae wa Satō desu.
English: My name is Sato.
補佐 (ほさ, hosa)
Meaning: Assistance, aid; an assistant.
Example: 彼は部長補佐を務めている。
Romaji: Kare wa buchō hosa o tsutomete iru.
English: He serves as an assistant to the department manager.
介護士 (かいごし, kaigoshi)
Meaning: Caregiver, nursing aide. Note: While this word doesn't use "佐," it perfectly embodies the concept of an "assistant" in a professional context.
例文: 彼女は老人ホームで介護士として働いている。
Romaji: Kanojo wa rōjin hōmu de kaigoshi toshite hataraite iru.
English: She works as a caregiver at a nursing home.
佐官 (さかん, sakan)
Meaning: Field officer (military rank like major, lieutenant colonel, colonel).
Example: 彼は佐官として任務についた。
Romaji: Kare wa sakan toshite ninmu ni tsuita.
English: He took up his duties as a field officer.
佐々木 (ささき, Sasaki)
Meaning: A very common Japanese surname.
Example: 佐々木さんは私の隣人です。
Romaji: Sasaki-san wa watashi no rinjin desu.
English: Mr. Sasaki is my neighbor.
Summary
Kanji: 佐
Core Meaning: To Assist, To Help; Assistant.
Readings: On'yomi サ (sa), Kun'yomi すけ (suke)
Stroke Order: 7 strokes. Remember it's composed of 亻 (person) and 左 (left/assist). Practice writing it step-by-step to master its form.
This kanji is essential for understanding Japanese names, official titles, and roles. By mastering its stroke order and vocabulary, you will be able to correctly write and use this important character.