• 素直すなお — honest / obedient
• 元素げんそ — chemical element
• 素材そざい — material / ingredient
• 素人しろうと — amateur / layperson
• 質素しっそ — simple / modest

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素 originally depicted raw threads or undyed silk, symbolizing something pure, original, or unaltered. That sense of “base form” evolved into broader meanings such as element, personality, and simplicity.

彼かれは とても素直すなおな 性格せいかくです。
He has a very honest and straightforward personality.

この料理りょうりは 素朴そぼくな 味あじがします。
This dish has a simple, rustic flavor.