The Kanji: 系 (Kei / -kei)
The kanji 系 means "system," "lineage," or "connection." It depicts threads (糸) connected to a common origin, representing interconnected systems and genealogical lines. This character describes relationships and classifications.
Common Words & Example Sentences
1. 系統 (keitō) - System
バスの系統を調べる。
"Check the bus route system."
2. 関係 (kankei) - Relationship
親子の関係が大切だ。
"The parent-child relationship is important."
3. 太陽系 (taiyōkei) - Solar system
太陽系には8つの惑星がある。
"There are eight planets in the solar system."
4. 系列 (keiretsu) - Affiliate
同じ系列の会社で働く。
"Work for a company in the same corporate group."
In summary, 系 describes connections and groupings - from family relationships (関係) and corporate structures (系列) to astronomical systems (太陽系) and organizational lines (系統). It's essential for discussing interconnected systems in Japanese.