Translation and Meaning of: 万人 - banjin

The expression 「万人」 (banjin) is composed of two distinct kanji: 「万」 which means "ten thousand" and 「人」 which represents "people". When combined, the term indicates "all people" or "the entire population". In more specific contexts, it can also be translated as "the masses" or simply "everyone". This kanji compound is common in Japanese to express an idea of universality or collectivity.

In etymology, the kanji 「万」 is often used to denote large quantities and, in this case, helps to emphasize the magnitude of people that can include a totality or large mass. The kanji 「人」 is a direct representation of "person" or "human being." Thus, the combination of these kanjis facilitates the transmission of the idea of a large group of people or the entirety of a population, without the need for additional explanations. An interesting fact is that derived expressions, such as 「万人向け」 (banjin-muke), are often used to describe something that is intended or suitable for "everyone."

The origin of the expression may be linked to historical descriptions of populations or large-scale gatherings, commonly used in ancient records and classical literature in Japan. In modern times, the expression not only retains this meaning of breadth but also adapts to various sociocultural contexts, such as in media and social discussions about inclusion and accessibility.

The use of 「万人」 in contemporary Japanese remains relevant. Not only in everyday conversations but also in marketing and advertising contexts, where inclusion and accessibility for "everyone" are highlighted. This semantic flexibility allows the term to be used in creative and innovative ways, reflecting the inclusive nature of the expression.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 多数 (Tasu) - A large number; many; majority.
• 大勢 (Oozei) - Large number of people; crowd; many people.
• 大衆 (Taishuu) - General public; mass; people.
• 大量 (Tairyō) - Large amount; massive quantity of something.
• 多数の人々 (Tasu no Hitobito) - Many people; most people.
• 大勢の人々 (Oozei no Hitobito) - A large number of people; a crowd of people.
• 大衆の人々 (Taishuu no Hitobito) - Common people; the masses; the general public.
• 多くの人々 (Ōku no Hitobito) - A large number of people; many people; community.
• 人々の集まり (Hitobito no Atsumari) - Meeting of people; a gathering of individuals.
• 人々の群れ (Hitobito no Mure) - Crowd of people; a group of individuals together.
• 人々の大群 (Hitobito no Daigun) - A large crowd of people; a large gathering of individuals.