1.
bunch; group; gang; crowd
An informal, slightly dismissive way to refer to a group of people. Can be neutral or carry a mildly negative or contemptuous nuance depending on context.
あの連中は信用できない。
That bunch can't be trusted.
いつもの連中で飲みに行った。
I went out drinking with the usual crowd.
あの連中と付き合っていると、ろくなことがないよ。
Nothing good will come from hanging around with that crowd.
USAGE NOTES:
連中 is informal and can range from casually neutral to dismissive or contemptuous depending on tone and context. It is not used in polite or formal speech.
When used about one's own group of friends, it is casual and friendly. When used about others, it often carries a negative or distancing nuance.
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 仲間 — companions, friends (positive, warm)
- 一味 — gang, accomplices (negative, criminal association)
- 連中 — sits between these: informal, potentially dismissive
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- あの連中 (that bunch/crowd)
- いつもの連中 (the usual crowd)
- 役所の連中 (the bureaucrats, those office people)