彩

A phono-semantic compound:

彡 (삼) — semantic component, indicating decoration, pattern, sheen

采 (채) — phonetic component, supplying the sound (채 / cǎi) and the idea of gathering or selecting

The composition conveys decorative coloration and visual richness, originally associated with ornamented patterns and brilliance.

Semantic development:

- decorative coloration — applied color or pattern

- visual brilliance — luster, vividness

- abstract variety — richness and diversity (figurative)

彩 is widely used in art, design, literature, and everyday description. In Korean, native words (색, 빛깔) dominate speech, while 彩 appears mainly in Sino-Korean compounds and stylistic writing.

Common compounds:

채색 (彩色) — coloring; coloration

색채 (色彩) — color; palette

다채롭다 (多彩) — colorful; varied

채도 (彩度) — color saturation

채화 (彩畫) — colored painting

Set phrases:

풍부한 색채 — rich colors

생활에 색채를 더하다 — add color to life

Unlike 色 (color as a basic property), 彩 emphasizes decorative, vivid, or artistic color.

Related characters (color & decoration):

色 — color

綵 — colored silk; decoration

艷 — brilliant; gorgeous

麗 — beautiful

飾 — adorn; decorate

Among these, 彩 highlights decorative color and visual richness.