1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji 濫 (らん, ran) means “overflow,” “excess,” or “abuse.” It often carries a negative connotation, referring to something being used or done excessively or inappropriately, such as power, authority, or words.
2. Origin and Radical
・Origin of the Kanji
濫 is a phonosemantic compound character (形声文字). It is made up of:
- 氵 (water radical) – Indicates a relation to water, flow, or fluidity.
- 監 (phonetic component) – Suggests the pronunciation and also contributes the idea of oversight or control.
Together, the character gives the image of water overflowing due to lack of control, symbolizing the idea of things being done excessively or without restraint.
・Radical
The radical is 氵 (the “water” radical), which is commonly found in kanji related to water, liquids, or flowing states.
3. Usage Examples
・Common Words & Phrases
- 濫用 (らんよう, ran’yō) – Abuse, misuse (e.g., of power or authority)
- 氾濫 (はんらん, hanran) – Flooding, overflow (especially of rivers)
- 濫読 (らんどく, randoku) – Indiscriminate reading
・Example Sentence
権力の濫用は社会に悪影響を与える。
(*Kenryoku no ran’yō wa shakai ni aku eikyō o ataeru.*)
→ Abuse of power has a negative impact on society.
4. Synonyms & Antonyms
・Similar Kanji
- 乱 (らん, ran) – Means “disorder” or “chaos.” Both imply a lack of control, but 乱 focuses more on turmoil and confusion.
- 過 (か, ka) – Means “excess” or “too much.” Similar in meaning but broader in usage, including time and amount.
・Opposite Kanji
- 節 (せつ, setsu) – Means “moderation” or “control,” often used in contrast with excess.
- 慎 (しん, shin) – Means “carefulness” or “prudence,” the opposite of reckless or excessive behavior.
5. Cultural & Historical Background
・Connection to Japanese Culture
The kanji 濫 appears in legal and political contexts, particularly in discussions about the misuse of power, resources, or information. It reflects a strong cultural emphasis on balance, moderation, and responsibility.
・Proverbs & Idioms
- 濫用すれば信を失う (らんようすればしんをうしなう)
(*Ran’yō sureba shin o ushinau*)
– “If you abuse something, you lose trust.”
This proverb underscores the importance of proper and fair use of authority or privilege.