偉

A phono-semantic compound:

人 (human) — semantic component, indicating a person

韋 (위) — phonetic component, supplying the sound (위 / wěi)

The character originally conveys the idea of a person of great stature or importance, which naturally developed into meanings such as great, grand, eminent.

Semantic development:

- physically or socially great — large stature or importance

- outstanding person — eminent individual

- great achievements — remarkable deeds or accomplishments

Common compounds:

위대 (偉大) — great; magnificent

위업 (偉業) — great achievement

위인 (偉人) — great person; hero

위공 (偉功) — outstanding merit

Compared with 大 (big, large), 偉 emphasizes human greatness and distinction, not mere size.

Related characters (greatness & excellence):

大 — big; great

宏 — vast; grand

傑 — outstanding; hero

雄 — heroic; mighty

卓 — outstanding; eminent

Among these, 偉 specifically highlights human greatness and celebrated achievement.

𬎉, 𬿭, 𫉔