thin · detail

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 細 has 11 strokes and expresses narrow width, small particles, or fine detail.
• Basic usage: 細い is read ほそい, and 細かい is read こまかい.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Thinness and detail
  • 細い糸 means thin thread.
  • 細い describes a small width or diameter, as with thread or a road.
  • 細かい粉 means fine powder.
  • 細かい describes small particles or fine divisions.
  • 日程を細かく説明してくれた means explained the schedule in detail for someone.