連盟

• Reading: れんめい
• Romaji: renmei
• Kanji breakdown: 連 (ren) — connect, link; 盟 (mei) — oath, alliance
• Pronunciation: /ɾeɴ.meː/

Meaning

League; federation; union. An organised association of groups or nations.

A noun for formal associations bound by shared rules or goals. Prominent in sports (日本サッカー連盟 — Japan Football Association), international bodies (国際連盟 — League of Nations), and professional organisations. More structured than 連合 (coalition), implying a permanent organisation with bylaws.

Examples

1. 国際柔道連盟がルールの変更を発表した。 The International Judo Federation announced a rule change.
2. 各国の連盟代表者が会議に出席した。 Representatives from each country's federation attended the meeting.
3. 地域の商店連盟が夏祭りを企画している。 The local merchants' association is planning a summer festival.

Usage Guide

Context: sports, international organisations, politics, professional associations

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

From Sino-Japanese 連 (ren, to connect/link) + 盟 (mei, oath/alliance). Literally 'linked by an oath,' reflecting the formal, pledge-based nature of leagues and federations.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal