層(そう)

そう

noun, suffix

layer, stratum; demographic segment

1. layer, stratum, level

A horizontal sheet or thickness of material, especially one of several lying on top of one another. Used in geology, architecture, and other fields.

The geological strata are layered many levels deep.

I stacked the cake in three layers.

A stratum containing fossils is clearly visible in this rock.

2. demographic segment, group, class

A section of society or a category of people sharing common characteristics such as age, income, or interests. Often used as a suffix.

若(わか)い層(そう)に人気(にんき)がある。

It's popular among the younger demographic.

It's a product targeting the wealthy class.

This program is supported by a wide range of age groups.

As a standalone noun, 層(そう) most commonly refers to physical layers. As a suffix attached to demographic or social descriptors, it indicates a group or segment: 年齢層(ねんれいそう) (age group), 富裕層(ふゆうそう) (wealthy class), 若年層(じゃくねんそう) (young demographic).

general

Added 2026.2.21 15:48 · Revised 2026.9.2 13:01

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