表

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 表 is read as おもて and is a noun for the front, face, or visible outside of paper or an object.
• Basic usage: Use 紙の表 for the side written on and 表だけを見る for looking only at the exterior.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Contrast with 裏
  • 表 is the front or visible face, while 裏 is the reverse, inner, or concealed side.
• Exterior and contents
  • 表 can name what is visible outside, but the word does not equate appearance with the contents within.