The nine major philosophical schools of the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods, such as 儒家 rú​jiā, 道家 dào​jiā, and 墨家 mò​jiā; also used generally for all academic or social groups.

The many branches or tributaries of a large river.

The various social groups or professions in traditional Chinese society, often categorized into upper, middle, and lower levels; usually used in the context of the various trades and professions