子分（こぶん、kobun）
- follower

The Japanese word 子分 (こぶん) generally refers to a subordinate, follower, or underling. It denotes someone who is under the authority or influence of another person, often in a group or organization. The relationship implied is typically hierarchical, with the 子分 occupying a lower position. It can suggest a close relationship with a leader, a sense of loyalty, and a role in carrying out the leader's directives. It can also imply a role in a gang or group with some criminal activity.

⚫︎ 彼は社長の子分］です。 Translation: He is the president's subordinate. ⚫︎ あの子分］たちはボスに忠実だ。 Translation: Those underlings are loyal to the boss. ⚫︎ そのヤクザは自分の子分］たちを厳しく取り締まっている。 Translation: That yakuza strictly controls his followers.

This word is commonly used in contexts where there is a clear power dynamic or organizational structure, such as business, gangs, sports teams, or even among friends. It is often used to describe the relationship between a leader (e.g., boss, captain) and their followers. The term can be neutral, implying simply a hierarchical relationship, or it can carry negative connotations, especially when associated with criminal activity or a lack of autonomy. It is important to consider the context to determine the exact nuance.

The word 子分 is written in kanji as 子分 and read こぶん in hiragana. There is no other way to write this word. The okurigana is standard.

⚫︎ 部下 (ぶか): subordinate, underling ⚫︎ 従者 (じゅうしゃ): follower ⚫︎ 手下 (てした): henchman, underling (often used for gangs) ⚫︎ メンバー (メンバー): member

⚫︎ 親分 (おやぶん): leader, boss ⚫︎ 上司 (じょうし): supervisor, superior ⚫︎ リーダー (リーダー): leader

彼は会社の子分］たちをまとめ、プロジェクトを成功させた。 ・Translation: He united the subordinates of the company and made the project a success. ・Explanation: This sentence shows the positive side of being a 子分, which is to follow the superior. It implies someone who works under someone.

そのギャングは子分］に命令し、犯罪を犯させた。 ・Translation: The gang ordered the underlings to commit a crime. ・Explanation: This sentence illustrates the negative connotation of 子分, highlighting its association with gangs and illegal activities.

The word 子分 is formed from the kanji 子 (こ), meaning "child" or "follower", and 分 (ぶん), meaning "share" or "part". It suggests a relationship where the subordinate is a "part" of or "belongs to" the leader, a relationship of dependency or belonging.