noun, noun, used as a suffix
group; body; party; company; troupe; gang; corps; ring
Refers to an organized group of people, such as a delegation, team, troupe, or association. Often used as a suffix in compounds like 旅行団 (tour group) or 消防団 (fire brigade).
彼は代表団の一員として会議に出席した。
He attended the conference as a member of the delegation.
The fire brigade protects the safety of the community.
グループ is a general loanword for any group or set, while 団 implies a more formal, organized body with a specific purpose.
隊 is used for military or disciplined units (e.g., 部隊, 消防隊), whereas 団 is broader and can refer to civilian organizations, troupes, or delegations.
The kanji 団 originally meant 'round' or 'circle', and by extension came to represent a gathered group or organization. The reading だん is the on'yomi.