1.
zone; sphere; area; region
A defined area or sphere of influence, activity, or characteristics. Most commonly used as a suffix attached to another word to indicate a zone or region defined by that word.
圏 is most commonly used as a suffix meaning '-sphere,' '-zone,' or '-speaking area.' It defines a region characterized by a particular quality, language, or phenomenon. It is a productive suffix that combines with many different words.
Compounds
- 首都圏 (capital region, greater metropolitan area)
- 英語圏 (English-speaking world)
- 通勤圏 (commuting zone)
- 暴風圏 (storm zone)
- 成層圏 (stratosphere)
- 大気圏 (atmosphere)
- 勢力圏 (sphere of influence)
- 生活圏 (living area, daily activity zone)
Usage
圏 is primarily used as a suffix and rarely stands alone. It attaches to nouns to create compound words describing zones, regions, or spheres. The reading けん is used in most compounds; the alternative reading かん appears in a few words like 語圏.