素地(そじ)

そじ
noun
groundwork, foundation, raw material
formalabstract
1. groundwork, foundation, basis
The underlying foundation or preparatory conditions that make something possible. Used figuratively for abilities, knowledge, or circumstances that serve as a base for future development.
成功(せいこう)の素地(そじ)がある。
The groundwork for success is in place.
幼少期(ようしょうき)の経験(けいけん)が彼(かれ)の音楽家(おんがくか)としての素地(そじ)を作(つく)った。
His childhood experiences laid the groundwork for him as a musician.
長年(ながねん)の研究(けんきゅう)で培(つちか)われた知識(ちしき)が、新(あたら)しい発見(はっけん)の素地(そじ)となった。
The knowledge cultivated through years of research became the foundation for new discoveries.
2. base material, raw fabric, unfinished surface
The unprocessed or untreated material before finishing, coating, or decoration is applied. Used for ceramics, textiles, paint surfaces, and similar crafts.
陶器(とうき)の素地(そじ)を整(ととの)える。
To prepare the base material of pottery.
素地(そじ)に釉薬(ゆうやく)をかける。
To apply glaze to the unfinished surface.
塗装(とそう)の前(まえ)に素地(そじ)をしっかり磨(みが)いておかないと、仕上(しあ)がりが悪(わる)くなる。
If you don't properly sand the base surface before painting, the finish will be poor.

Usage

Sense 1 (figurative foundation) is more common in everyday writing. Sense 2 (raw material) is used in crafts and manufacturing. The pattern ～の素地(そじ)がある means the groundwork exists for something, while ～の素地(そじ)を作(つく)る means to lay the foundation.

Common collocations

general
Added 2026.2.27 15:28 · Revised 2026.9.2 13:01
13500/13892_soji