noun, noun, used as a suffix
Refers to an exclusive group bound by shared interests, background, or loyalty, often within politics, business, or institutions. Frequently used as a suffix in compounds like 学閥 (academic clique) or 派閥 (faction).
彼は党内の有力な閥に属している。
He belongs to a powerful faction within the party.
あの会社には学閥がある。
That company has an academic clique.