旗手

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 旗手(きしゅ) is a noun for a standard-bearer in a procession or a pioneer leading a movement.
• Basic usage: A procession's flag bearer is 行進の旗手, while a leader of an art movement is 芸術運動の旗手.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Literal flag and figurative leader
  • Context distinguishes someone physically carrying a flag at the front from someone representing and leading a new movement.
• Expressing affiliation
  • The forms 行進の旗手 and 芸術運動の旗手 use の to show the procession or movement represented.