連中
also: れんじゅう · れんぢゅう
Meanings
1
Familiar or derogatory term for a group of people, often implying the speaker is not part of the group or looks down on them. Can be used casually among friends.
That bunch is always late.
The guys next door are so noisy I can't sleep.
2
troupe; company (of performers)
Only with reading れんじゅう / れんぢゅう
Used for a group of performers, especially musicians or actors. Often read れんじゅう in this sense, though れんちゅう is also possible.
A traveling troupe came to town.
Usage patterns
- 連中とつるむto hang around with a bunch/gang of people
You'd better stop hanging around with that bunch.
- 連中を率いるto lead a troupe (of performers)
The troupe leader led the group on a tour around the country.
- 〈事〉をする連中the bunch of people who do (something)
It's better not to get close to people who do bad things.
- 連中に加わるto join a troupe/group
He joined the troupe at a young age.