float, extensive, non-specific

泛 is composed of 水 (water) and 乏 (lack). 水 is a pictograph of a river, while 乏 consists of a slanted stroke and 之 (go), meaning walking on an improper path. Thus, 泛 conveys the idea of river water overflowing beyond its banks. Originally used to describe water spreading or flooding, it later extended to mean floating, broad, or vague.