1.
the people, the populace, citizens, subjects
The common people of a country or territory, especially as seen from the perspective of a ruler or government. A literary and somewhat archaic term, still used in formal or historical contexts.
王は民のために尽くした。
The king devoted himself to the people.
民の声に耳を傾けるべきだ。
One should listen to the voice of the people.
古の時代から、良き指導者は民の暮らしを第一に考えてきた。
Since ancient times, good leaders have put the livelihood of the people first.
USAGE:
A literary and formal word with a somewhat archaic feel. Used in historical narratives, political rhetoric, and literary prose. In modern everyday Japanese, 国民 (citizens), 市民 (citizens), or 人々 (people) are used instead. 民 evokes a relationship between rulers and the ruled.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 民の声: the voice of the people
- 民を治める: to govern the people
- 民のために: for the people
- 民の暮らし: the people's livelihood
Related Words
Related:
民族 (ethnic group)