noun
children; sons; younger family members
Refers to one's own children or younger brothers, often in a familial or hierarchical context. The literal gloss 'children and younger brothers' captures the compound's components.
彼は子弟の教育に熱心だ。
He is enthusiastic about the education of his children and younger brothers.
noun
A broader, somewhat formal usage referring to young people in general, not necessarily one's own family. Often used in educational or social contexts.
この学校は地域の子弟を受け入れている。
This school accepts young people from the local area.
Compound of 子 (child) and 弟 (younger brother), originally referring to one's children and younger brothers. The broader sense of 'young people' developed from this familial core.