reach · and

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 及 means reaching or extending to a range; its kun-readings include およぶ and およぼす.
• Basic usage: 及ぶ describes the extent of an effect or duration, while 普及 describes a tool or method becoming widespread.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Extent in place and time
  • 三つの村に及ぶ means that damage or another effect extends to three villages.
  • 五時間に及ぶ describes a meeting or other event lasting five hours. Here the range is a duration rather than a place.