寸分(すんぶん)

すんぶん
noun
a tiny bit; the slightest degree
formalquantity
1. a tiny bit; the slightest degree; the least amount
An extremely small amount or degree. Almost always used in negative constructions (寸分(すんぶん)も〜ない) or with たがわず to mean 'without the slightest difference.'
寸分(すんぶん)の狂(くる)いもない。
There is not the slightest error.
寸分(すんぶん)たがわず同(おな)じ形(かたち)だ。
It is exactly the same shape, without the slightest difference.
彼(かれ)の計算(けいさん)は寸分(すんぶん)の誤差(ごさ)もなく正確(せいかく)だった。
His calculations were accurate without the slightest margin of error.

Literally means 'a sun (unit of length, about 3 cm) and a bu (about 3 mm)' — both very small units of traditional Japanese measurement. Used idiomatically to emphasize an extremely small degree.

Common patterns

  • 寸分(すんぶん)の狂(くる)いもない: not the slightest error
  • 寸分(すんぶん)たがわず: without the slightest difference; exactly
  • 寸分(すんぶん)も違(ちが)わない: not different in the least
  • 寸分(すんぶん)の隙(すき)もない: without the slightest opening/gap

Usage

Almost always appears with negative expressions or with たがわず. Rarely used on its own in an affirmative sentence. The word emphasizes precision, exactness, or the complete absence of deviation.

Similar words

  • 微塵(みじん): the tiniest bit — also used in negative constructions (微塵(みじん)も〜ない)
  • わずか: slight, small amount — more neutral and versatile; used in both positive and negative contexts

Related Words

Compare: 微塵(みじん) (the tiniest bit)
general
Added 2026.4.2 23:06 · Revised 2026.9.2 13:02
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