• 別べつ — different / another
• 特別とくべつ — special
• 区別くべつ — distinction / differentiation
• 別々べつべつ — separately / individually
• 別わかれ — parting / farewell
• 差別さべつ — discrimination

The character 別 combines the elements of 刀 (sword) and 另 (separate, variant form of bones and body). The kanji depicts the idea of physically cutting or separating — a symbolic act of division. It naturally evolved to mean separation in emotions, ideas, or groups.

別べつの人ひとに 聞きいてみましょう。
Let’s ask someone else.

二人ふたりは 駅えきで 別わかれました。
The two parted ways at the station.

特別とくべつな日ひに 会あいましょう。
Let’s meet on a special day.

🎧 Listen to the Japanese and English voice guides for this kanji.