The Meaning of mohan [模範] In Japanese

模範
もはん
Romaji: mohan N4

What does 模範 mean?

Translation and Meaning

model, example, standard, exemplar, paragon

Definition

模範 means a model or example that others imitate, serving as a standard of excellence or behavior in various contexts such as education, work, and public discourse.

Type

noun (名詞)

Stroke Order

Meanings

  • Model or exemplar to imitate in behavior, work, or standards
  • A person who serves as a role model or standard-bearer
  • A model answer or example used for comparison in tests or assignments

Etymology

模 mo denotes imitation or model; 範 han denotes pattern or standard; together they form a Sino-Japanese compound read moh an, reflecting how kanji compounds convey combined meanings through their on’yomi readings.

Composition

  • 模: model, imitation
  • 範: pattern, standard; example
  • Together they express a standard to imitate; a model for others to follow

Usage

Used as a noun meaning a standard or exemplar in formal writing, educational contexts, and business; appears in fixed expressions such as 模範解答 and 模範生; the verb form 模範となる and the adjectival form 模範的 describe becoming a model or exhibiting exemplary qualities.
💡 Tips
Mnemonic: picture 模 as a mold to copy and 範 as a fixed template; seeing the two together evokes copying a perfect model, reinforcing mo-han as model/exemplar.

Variations

  • 見本 (みほん, mihon) mihon
  • 手本 (てほん, tehon) tehon
  • 標本 (ひょうほん, hyouhon) hyouhon

Example Phrases

  • 彼は 模範 となる 先輩 を 見習った。
    Kare wa mohan to naru senpai o minaratta.
    He imitated a senior who would become a model.
    Lista:
    • 彼は (Kare wa) – he
    • 模範 (mohan) – model
    • となる (to naru) – to become
    • 先輩 (senpai) – senior
    • を (o) – (object marker)
    • 見習った (minaratta) – imitated
    Core point: 「模範」 is a noun meaning ‘model/exemplar’ and here forms the phrase 「模範となる」 meaning ‘to become a model’.
模範