邁

A phono-semantic compound consisting of:

辵 (walking) — semantic component, indicates movement or travel;

萬 — phonetic component supplying the sound (매 / mài).

The character conveys the idea of moving forward over a long distance.

Semantic development:

- to walk or go forward;

- to go far;

- to advance or progress;

- to become advanced in age (metaphorical extension).

The idea of “going forward” developed into meanings of progress or maturity.

매진 (邁進) — to advance vigorously; to push forward

노매 (老邁) — aged; advanced in years

These expressions often appear in formal or literary language.

邁 emphasizes strong forward movement or progress. Appears in expressions describing progress, development, or age.

Related characters:

進 — to advance

行 — to go

歩 — to step

遠 — far