身分

• Reading: みぶん
• Romaji: mibun
• Kanji breakdown: 身 (mi) — body, self; 分 (bun) — part, status
• Pronunciation: /mi.bɯ.n/

Meaning

Social standing; status; position; rank in society.

A noun that historically referred to one's class in the feudal system and now describes social or official status. Often used in compounds like 身分証明書 (identification document). Can also express the idea of living beyond one's means in expressions like 身分不相応.

Examples

1. 身分証明書を持ってきてください。 Please bring your identification document.
2. 昔は身分によって住む場所が決まっていた。 In the old days, where you lived was determined by your social class.
3. 学生の身分でそんな高い物は買えない。 As a student, I can't afford something that expensive.

Usage Guide

Context: official documents, history, daily life

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Composed of 身 (body, self) and 分 (part, portion, status). Originally described one's allotted position in the social hierarchy, tied to one's very being.

Cultural Context

Era: Feudal

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal