Meaning

Primary

Essence

Alternatives

Soul, True Meaning

Word Type

noun, の adjective

Explanation

Examine reality and extract its marrow — this will let you perceive its essence and soul. Ponder these things hard enough, and you may even discover the true meaning of life, the universe, and everything.

真髄 is a formal word used to describe the true essence or core of something — often with a bit of literary flair. It's used when talking about the deepest meaning or most important part of an idea, skill, or philosophy.

Reading

しんずい
  • Kyoko
    (Tokyo accent, female)
  • Kenichi
    (Tokyo accent, male)

Explanation

This is a jukugo word that uses the on'yomi readings of the kanji. You should be able to read this on your own.

Context

Patterns of Use

Common Word Combinations

  • 文化の真髄

    the essence of a culture

    サービスの真髄

    the essence of service

    仏教の真髄

    the essence of Buddhism

    ジャズの真髄

    the soul of jazz

Context Sentences

京料理の真髄はハモ料理だと思います。

I think the essence of Kyoto cooking is in eel dishes.

無駄を省くと、真髄が見えてきますよ。

Strip away the excess and the essence will be revealed.

真髄をつかむには、時間がかかるものです。

Grasping the essence usually takes time.

真髄は、誰にでもすぐ見えるものではありません。

The essence isn't something everyone can see easily.

この演奏には、ジャズの真髄が詰まっています。

This performance is filled with the essence of jazz.

Kanji Composition