1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “群” (gun) means “group” or “crowd.” It refers to a collection of individuals or things that are gathered together, often implying a sense of unity or collective behavior.
2. Formation and Radical
The kanji “群” is a compound character, which means it is formed by combining different elements. It consists of the radical “群” (which represents a group or crowd) and the phonetic component “君” (kun), which contributes to its pronunciation. The character can be classified as a compound ideograph because it combines meanings to convey the idea of a group.
3. Examples of Usage
Common words and phrases that include “群” are:
- 群れ (むれ, mure) – a flock or herd
- 群衆 (ぐんしゅう, gunshuu) – a crowd
- 群島 (ぐんとう, guntou) – an archipelago
Example sentences in daily conversation:
- 「公園にはたくさんの人が群れています。」
(There are many people gathered in the park.) - 「彼は群衆の中で目立っていました。」
(He stood out in the crowd.)
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar kanji with related meanings include:
- 集 (しゅう, shuu) – to gather, which emphasizes the action of coming together rather than the state of being in a group.
- 団 (だん, dan) – a group or organization, often used in a more formal context.
Antonyms include:
- 孤独 (こどく, kodoku) – loneliness, which conveys the idea of being alone or isolated.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
The kanji “群” has significant relevance in Japanese culture, often used in contexts that emphasize community and togetherness. It appears in various proverbs and idiomatic expressions, such as:
- 群を抜く (ぐんをぬく, gun o nuku) – to stand out from the crowd, meaning to excel or be exceptional.
- 群れを成す (むれをなす, mure o nasu) – to form a group, often used to describe animals or people coming together.
Overall, “群” encapsulates the essence of community and collective identity in Japanese society.