The Kanji: 準 (Jun)
The kanji 準 means "standard," "semi-," or "to prepare." It combines 氵(water) with 隹(bird), originally depicting water birds level with the water's surface - conveying concepts of balance and conformity to a standard.
Common Words & Example Sentences
1. 準備 (junbi) - Preparation
試験の準備をする。
"Prepare for an exam."
2. 基準 (kijun) - Standard/Criterion
評価の基準を満たす。
"Meet the evaluation standards."
3. 準決勝 (junkesshō) - Semifinal
チームが準決勝に進出した。
"The team advanced to the semifinals."
4. 水準 (suijun) - Level/Standard
生活水準が向上した。
"The standard of living has improved."
In summary, 準 represents conformity to standards (基準), preparatory actions (準備), intermediate levels (準決勝), and qualitative measurements (水準). It's essential for describing systematic processes and qualifications.