a) 分 (fen1) - Japanese Kanji also written 'ぶん' (bun) = moment (in time - literally 'a minute'), part and 'to divide' and 'distinguish'
b) 解 (jie3) - Japanese Kanji also written 'かい' (kai) = untie, solve and clarify
By continuous observation, the 'bunkai' process allows for a clarification of over-all understanding - developed by carefully examining the constituent parts. Of course, this is as much a practical matter as it is a theoretical analysis - all dependent upon a (repeated) structured experience.
a) 分 (fen1) - Japanese Kanji also written 'ぶん' (bun) = moment (in time - literally 'a minute'), part and 'to divide' and 'distinguish'
Within the Chinese language - the ideogram 分 (fen1) [bun] is used to denote a single 'minute' (comprised of '60 seconds') - as in 'one minute' of the sixty minutes that comprise one hour! This suggests that there is an element of 'time' contained with the concept of 'Bunkai' (分解) - as if when assessing and applying a movement (or 'set' of movements) - there is an element of 'controlling' or 'altering' the perception of 'time'. This might mean that 'Bunkai' is NOT just the correct interpretation of the physical mechanics of Kata - but is also the metaphysical ability of expertly 'manipulating' how an opponent 'perceives' time. If the passing of time can be successfully 'altered' - then the opponent cannot 'occupy' the space they inhabit properly. When a Master controls the time and space (both within the mind and body and outside the mind and body) - then such an individual becomes 'invincible' in the sense that the direct path to defeating him or her is no longer available to ANY would be opponent!