本質

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 本質, read ほんしつ, refers to an underlying nature or core rather than outward appearance.
• Basic usage: It is used when identifying the heart of a problem or discussing a festival’s enduring meaning despite changes in form.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Focus compared with 特徴
  • 特徴 can refer to noticeable qualities that distinguish something from others. 本質 focuses on qualities fundamental to understanding what it is.