charitable donation; contribution; alms
Refers to monetary or material aid given out of a sense of duty or compassion, often for disaster relief or social welfare. 義援金 is a very common compound.
We sent a charitable donation to the disaster area.
They appeal for donations on the street.
Common modern spelling for charitable donations, especially in disaster relief contexts.
Older spelling using 捐 (contribute). Still seen but less common than 義援.
Originally written 義捐, from 義 “public-spirited, charitable” and 捐 “donate.” 義援 is a later substitute spelling retaining the same pronunciation and meaning.