1.
companion, comrade, fellow
People who belong to the same group, share the same interests, or work together. Implies a sense of camaraderie and belonging.
彼は信頼できる仲間だ。
He is a trustworthy companion.
仲間と一緒に旅行に行った。
I went on a trip with my friends/companions.
仲間を裏切ることはできない。
I can't betray my companions.
仲間と協力して問題を解決した。
I solved the problem by cooperating with my teammates.
仲間外れにされて悲しかった。
I was sad to be left out of the group.
新しい仲間がチーム}に{加わった。
A new member joined the team.
2.
member of a group, category
Things that belong to the same category or type. Used for classification.
イルカは鯨の仲間です。
Dolphins are in the whale family (same category as whales).
〜の仲間 = belonging to the same category
トマトは野菜の仲間だ。
Tomatoes belong to the vegetable category.
この植物はバラの仲間です。
This plant belongs to the rose family.
ペンギンは鳥の仲間だ。
Penguins belong to the bird family.
クジラは魚ではなく、哺乳類の仲間です。
Whales are not fish; they belong to the mammal group.
USAGE: 仲間 implies a stronger bond than just 'friend'. It suggests people who share experiences, goals, or a sense of belonging together.
NUANCES:
- Implies solidarity and loyalty
- Often used for teammates, colleagues, or fellow group members
- Can indicate being 'one of us'
COMMON PATTERNS:
- 仲間に入る (to join a group)
- 仲間に入れる (to include in the group)
- 仲間外れ (being left out, ostracism)
- 仲間意識 (sense of belonging)
- 〜の仲間 (belonging to the ~ category/group)
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 友達 - friend (general)
- 同僚 - colleague (work)
- 仲良し - close friend
- 同士 - fellow (suffix)