equip · dress

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: The on readings of 装 are そう and しょう, and its kun reading is よそおう. It has 12 strokes and relates to dressing, decorating, or equipping.
• Basic usage: 装う is read よそおう, and 装備 is read そうび.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• 装う and 装備
  • 装う means dress up or pretend.
  • 招待客は華やかに装って会場に集まった。 means “The invited guests gathered at the venue dressed elegantly.”
  • 装備 means equipment or armament.
  • 登山に必要な装備を床に並べて確認した。 means “I laid out and checked the equipment needed for the climb.”