差額
さがく · sagaku · JLPT N1 · noun
difference
💰 差 (difference) + 額 (amount): the amount by which two figures differ, like a bank balance gap
差 means gap or difference; 額 means sum or amount. Together they name the margin between two amounts. Sounds like 'sa-ga-ku', so say 'sa' for subtract, 'gaku' for amount.
差 — 垂 (drooping) + 工 (work/tool)
Originally depicted a hand reaching down to grasp grain stalks of uneven length, suggesting discrepancy or unevenness. From this came the meaning 'difference' or 'to differ.' The reading chā specifically carries the sense of disparity, while other readings developed meanings like 'to dispatch' (chāi) and 'poor/lacking' (chà).