凡

An pictographic character.

It is said to be modeled after a framework or enclosure (토담틀), symbolizing something general or encompassing.

The shape suggests a structure or boundary, representing something broad or inclusive.

Semantic development:

- general; all;

- in summary; broadly speaking;

- common or ordinary;

- mediocre (later evaluative nuance).

The shift from “all” to “ordinary” reflects contrast with exceptional or sacred.

In Korean, 凡 often conveys the idea of “ordinary” or “general.”

범례 (凡例) — general rule; preface explanation

범인 (凡人) — ordinary person

평범 (平凡) — ordinary; commonplace

범상 (凡常) — usual; ordinary

凡 often appears in formal or explanatory contexts, especially in prefaces (凡例).

Common in classical texts as an introductory word meaning “generally speaking.”

Related characters:

平 — level; ordinary

常 — usual

庸 — mediocre

例 — example

凢 / 凣 — variants with a dot above 几

In Taiwanese orthographic tradition, some characters containing the 凡 component (e.g., 恐, 築) are written with alternating stroke patterns for distinction.