徒
Mnemonic
Every morning, the postman runs his delivery route through winding streets. Behind him trots a loyal follower — an apprentice mimicking his every turn, desperate to learn the neighborhood. The postman doesn't mind; he was once a follower too, shadowing his own mentor step for step.
Additional thoughts
Picture the apprentice literally jogging behind the postman, copying his stride and route. The running motion reinforces 'walking together on foot,' core to this kanji's meaning.Quick recall
An apprentice follower trails the postman as he runs his route, copying every step.Details
The keyword for 徒 is follower. This kanji refers to a person who follows a teacher, leader, or doctrine, such as a disciple or apprentice. It can also denote a group of people who walk together on foot, emphasizing the idea of going along with others. Additionally, it carries a sense of something being in vain or futile, as in effort without meaningful result.
- On'yomi
- と
- Kun'yomi
- いたずら、あだ