1. Overview of Meaning
The kanji “衆” (shū) generally means “crowd” or “multitude.” It refers to a large group of people or things, often emphasizing the collective aspect.
2. Formation and Radical
Formation of the Kanji: The kanji “衆” is a compound character, which means it is formed by combining different elements. It is classified as a 会意文字 (ideogram), where the components convey a collective meaning.
Radical: The radical for “衆” is “衣” (clothing), which is found at the bottom of the character. This radical often relates to clothing or fabric, but in this case, it contributes to the overall meaning of a group or assembly.
3. Examples of Usage
Common Words and Phrases: Some frequently used words that include “衆” are:
- 衆議院 (Shūgien) – House of Representatives
- 大衆 (Taishū) – The masses, the public
Example Sentences in Daily Conversation:
- 「このイベントには多くの衆が集まった。」(This event gathered a large crowd.)
- 「大衆の意見を尊重することが大切です。」(It is important to respect the opinions of the masses.)
4. Synonyms and Antonyms
Similar Kanji: A similar kanji is “群” (gun), which also means “group” or “herd.” However, “群” often emphasizes a more specific grouping, like animals or people gathered together, while “衆” refers to a larger, more general crowd.
Opposite Kanji: An antonym for “衆” could be “個” (ko), which means “individual.” This highlights the contrast between a collective group and a single entity.
5. Cultural and Historical Background
Relation to Japanese Culture: The concept of “衆” is significant in Japanese culture, where community and collective action are highly valued. It reflects the importance of harmony and cooperation in society.
Proverbs and Idioms: One relevant proverb is “衆人の目は厳しい” (Shūjin no me wa kibishii), which means “The eyes of the crowd are strict,” emphasizing the scrutiny that individuals face in a collective setting.