範

fàn

pattern, model, rule, law

Meaning

Concrete: A mold, cast, or frame; specifically a tool into which material is poured or pressed.
Abstract: A pattern, model, paradigm, or exemplar to be emulated.
Administrative/Legal: A rule, regulation, or prescribed boundary/limit.

Grammar and usage

Noun: The most common usage (the mold, the standard).
Modifier: Used to describe something as "standard," "exemplary," or "formal."
Verb: To mold, standardize, or fit into a pattern.

Distinctions

vs. 型 (xíng): While both involve shape, 型 typically refers to a type, form, or category; 範 implies a normative standard that should be followed.
vs. 式 (shì): 式 generally denotes a specific formula, style, or ritual procedure; 範 is the overarching paradigm from which such styles are derived.
vs. 律 (lǜ): 律 refers to codified law or strict statutes; 範 refers to the pattern of conduct or the "frame" of propriety.

History and forms

Relationship with 范: 范 is the older, more general form. The bamboo radical was added in 範 to specify the meaning of "mold" or "standard." In early texts, these two forms are often interchangeable.

Graphical notes

Originates from a physical tool: a mold or cast, originally bamboo-framed, used to give shape to material.

Translator notes

If both 範 and 范 appear in a single passage, consider whether the author is distinguishing between the technical tool (範) and a more general category or name (范), but do not assume a strict semantic divide unless the context strongly supports it.

Decontextualized translator aid. This page describes plausible lexical range; it does not choose what the glyph means in a particular passage.