1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “凡” (pronounced “bon” or “han”) generally means “ordinary” or “common.” It is often used to describe something that is not special or exceptional, emphasizing the idea of mediocrity or simplicity.
2. Formation and Radical
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji “凡” is classified as a ideogram, which means it represents an idea or concept rather than a specific object. It is composed of elements that convey the notion of being average or plain.
Radical: The radical for “凡” is “亻” (the person radical), which is often associated with human-related concepts. This suggests that the idea of being ordinary is connected to human experiences.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases: Some frequently used words that include “凡” are “凡人” (bonjin – ordinary person) and “凡例” (banrei – example or standard). These terms highlight the concept of being typical or standard.
Example Sentences in Daily Conversation:
- 彼は凡人だから、特別な才能はない。
- (He is an ordinary person, so he doesn’t have any special talents.)
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji: A kanji with a similar meaning is “平” (hei), which means “flat” or “level.” However, “平” often conveys a sense of calmness or peace, while “凡” emphasizes mediocrity.
Opposite Kanji: An antonym for “凡” is “特” (toku), meaning “special” or “unique.” This highlights the contrast between being ordinary and being exceptional.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Relation to Japanese Culture: In Japanese culture, the concept of “凡” is often reflected in the appreciation of simplicity and humility. It is valued in various art forms, such as tea ceremonies and traditional crafts.
Proverbs and Idioms: One common saying is “凡事徹底” (bonji tettei), which means “to thoroughly master ordinary things.” This emphasizes the importance of diligence and mastery in everyday tasks.