序
KanjiJLPT N1
Preface
preface, beginning, order, precedence, occasion, chance, incidentally
Mnemonic
On the veranda, before entering the house, you always pause to read what was prepared beforehand — the preface. It's a ritual: standing at the threshold, absorbing the author's opening words, letting them set the scene before you step inside to the main story.
Additional thoughts
The veranda is literally the threshold space before you enter — just as a preface is the threshold before the main text. 'Beforehand' reinforces that it comes first. Picture yourself on a wooden veranda holding open the first page.Quick recall
On the veranda, read what's written beforehand — that's the preface before stepping inside.Details
The keyword for 序 is preface. This kanji refers to the introductory section of a book or speech, the opening remarks that set the stage for what follows. By extension, it also carries the meaning of order, sequence, or proper arrangement, as a preface establishes the framework and context before the main content begins. It conveys the idea of something that comes first or serves as a preliminary foundation.
- On'yomi
- じょ
- Kun'yomi
- つい.で、ついで