Translation and Meaning of: 農民 - noumin

The Japanese word 「農民」 (noumin) refers to a "farmer" or "peasant." This term is directly related to the agricultural context of Japan, a country with a rich history in farming practices, especially in significant crops like rice. 「農民」 is composed of two kanji: 「農」 (nou) which means "agriculture" and 「民」 (min) which means "people" or "citizen." Thus, a 「農民」 is literally a "people of agriculture," meaning those who work the land and cultivate it.

The kanji 「農」 is part of various words related to agriculture, reflecting the importance of this activity in Japanese society over the centuries. For example, 「農業」 (nougyou) means "agriculture," and 「農村」 (nouson) means "agricultural village." The kanji 「民」 also appears in words related to people or groups, such as 「市民」 (shimin), which means "citizen" or "resident." Interestingly, the kanji 「民」 is present in various words that define social classes, such as 「庶民」 (shomin), which means "common people."

Historically, the figure of the 「農民」 in feudal Japan was of extreme relevance. Farmers were the economic and social backbone of rural communities, supplying society with essential food and agricultural products. In past eras, the occupation of farmer was considered one of the main classes within the social class system (ippon no shakai) in feudal Japan, just below the samurai. Today, agriculture remains a vital part of Japanese culture and economy, albeit with modernized and mechanized methods.

With technological development and increasing urbanization, modern 「農民」 face new challenges, such as sustainable land management and adaptation to climate change. However, the dedication and tradition of this group remain central to agricultural production in Japan. Furthermore, the use of the term 「農民」 highlights the deep respect and recognition for the historical and cultural importance of farmers in the social fabric of Japan. It is always interesting to observe how different cultures value and integrate their agricultural practices, showcasing the universality of agriculture as a fundamental pillar of any society.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 農家 (Nouka) - Family or residence of farmers; farm owners.
• 農夫 (Noufu) - Farmer; rural worker, usually refers to a man who works in agriculture.
• 農業従事者 (Nougyou Juuji-sha) - People who dedicate themselves to agriculture; agricultural workers in general.
• 農作業者 (Nousakugyou-sha) - Worker who performs specific agricultural activities; can refer to laborers in various activities in agriculture.
• 農村民 (Nousonmin) - Inhabitants of rural areas who dedicate themselves to country life and agricultural activities.
• 農民層 (Nouminsou) - Class or social class of peasants; refers to the group of farmers within society.

農民

Romaji: noumin
Kana: のうみん
Type: Noun
L: jlpt-n3

Translation / Meaning: Farmers; peasants

Meaning in English: farmers;peasants

Definition: A person who plows the fields and produces the harvest.