伝
Meanings
Refers to stories, teachings, or customs passed down through generations. Often used in compounds like 伝説 (legend) or 伝統 (tradition).
An old legend remains in this village.
biography; life story
Used for written accounts of a person's life, especially in historical or literary contexts. Common in compounds like 自伝 (autobiography) or 伝記 (biography).
I was moved after reading his biography.
Refers to a traditional or established way of doing something, often in arts, crafts, or martial arts. Appears in compounds like 秘伝 (secret method) or 口伝 (oral instruction).
The methods of this school are kept secret from outsiders.
ancient relay system
Historical term for the horseback communication and transportation system used in ancient Japan. Rarely used outside historical contexts.
The ancient relay system is considered the origin of the ekiden (long-distance relay race).
Usage patterns
- 〈人〉伝a biography of (a person), used as a book title suffix
He read a biography of Oda Nobunaga.
Expressions
- 伝統あるlong-established; traditional
- 伝持の八祖the eight doctrinal patriarchs (Shingon Buddhism)
- 遺伝子組み換えでないnon-genetically modified; non-GMO