masses

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 衆 is read しゅう, has 12 strokes, and relates to crowds or the public.
• Basic usage: 公衆 is read こうしゅう, and 群衆 is read ぐんしゅう.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• 公衆 and 群衆
  • 公衆 means public or general population.
  • 公衆の場では周囲に配慮して話す必要がある。 means “In public places, you need to be considerate of others when you speak.”
  • 群衆 means crowd.
  • 広場に集まった群衆が拍手を送った。 means “The crowd gathered in the plaza applauded.”