The Kanji: 表 (Hyō / Omo / Arawa)
The kanji 表 means "surface," "express," or "chart." It combines 衣 (clothing) with 毛 (fur), originally depicting a fur coat's exterior. This character represents outward presentation and visible manifestation.
Common Words & Example Sentences
1. 表す (arawasu) - To express
意見を表す。
"Express an opinion."
2. 表情 (hyōjō) - Facial expression
彼女の表情が硬い。
"Her facial expression is stiff."
3. 時刻表 (jikokuhyō) - Timetable
電車の時刻表を確認する。
"Check the train timetable."
4. 表面 (hyōmen) - Surface
テーブルの表面を拭く。
"Wipe the table surface."
In summary, 表 describes external presentation - from conveying meaning (表す) and emotional displays (表情) to organized data (時刻表) and physical exteriors (表面). It connects visibility with communication.