NANMAN Meaning and
Definition
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Nanman is a term that originates from ancient Chinese history and literature. It refers to non-Han ethnic groups that lived in the southern regions of China during ancient times, particularly during the Three Kingdoms period (220-280 AD).
The term "nanman" is composed of two Chinese characters: "nan" meaning "south" and "man" meaning "barbarian" or "savage." Together, it signifies southern barbarians. Nanman was primarily used by the Han Chinese to describe the various indigenous tribes residing in the southern provinces of China during that era.
The nanman were recognized as distinct from the Han Chinese due to their different customs, languages, and lifestyles. They often engaged in conflicts with the Han Chinese, and their portrayal in Chinese historical texts often emphasizes their exotic and wild characteristics.
However, it is important to note that the term "nanman" is now considered outdated and potentially derogatory due to its connotation of cultural superiority and colonial mentality. The modern understanding embraces the rich diversity of China's ethnic groups and promotes respect and equality among them.
In contemporary usage, the term nanman is rarely employed, as it reflects an outdated perspective on the ethnic groups inhabiting southern regions of China.
Etymology of NANMAN
The word "nanman" is of Chinese origin and has been borrowed into Japanese.
In Chinese, the term is written as "南蛮" (pronounced nán mán). The characters "南" (nán) and "蛮" (mán) can be translated as "southern" and "barbarians" respectively.
The term originally referred to the various ethnic groups or tribes living in the southern regions of China, as well as other southern regions that were considered distant or unfamiliar to the Chinese. These groups were seen as "barbarians" or "uncivilized" by the Chinese at the time.
During the Sino-Japanese War in the late 19th century, the term "nanman" was borrowed into Japanese in its Chinese reading. In Japanese, it is written as "南蛮" and pronounced "nanman" or "nanban".
