companion, comrade, partner

JLPT N1 7 strokes

Words with this Kanji

Meaning and Usage

The character (bàn) primarily means 'companion' or 'partner.' It refers to a person who accompanies or joins another, often implying closeness or cooperation.

Common Contexts

You will often see used to describe friends, partners, or colleagues who accompany someone in activities like travel, work, or social events. It can also imply a supportive role, such as someone who follows or assists.

Collocations and Patterns

  • (zuò bàn): to accompany, to keep company
  • 伴随 (bànsuí): to accompany, to follow
  • 伴侣 (bànlǚ): partner, spouse

These collocations highlight the idea of companionship and joint participation.

Nuances

Using emphasizes the presence of someone alongside another, often with a positive or cooperative tone. It differs from simply 'with' () by stressing the role of the companion. Avoid confusing with 伴奏 (bànzòu), which specifically means 'to accompany musically.'

Example Sentences

He is my best companion.

Traveling is more fun with friends as companions.

This task requires two people cooperating, one leading and one accompanying.