example, custom, usage, precedent
例 centers on a representative instance that serves as a model: an example, a precedent, or a customary usage that others follow.
例 combines 亻 (person) with 列 (line up, arrange), suggesting a person setting out an arrangement that serves as a model or precedent.
A person 亻 lines up 列 examples to show how something is done. The lined-up items become the custom or precedent.
For レイ, imagine a person laying out a row of example objects: lay -> レイ, and each object is a model to follow.
example; instance; illustration; case
for example; for instance; e.g.
example; precedent; case
exception
example
regulations; rules
proportion
established practice; custom
exceptional; unusual; extraordinary; unprecedented; singular
average (normal, ordinary) year
to compare (something) to; to liken; to speak figuratively; to use a simile; to use a metaphor
judicial precedent; leading case; prior case
precedent
special case; exception
example; illustration; precedent
regular; ordinary (e.g. session of parliament)
case
custom; practice; convention; precedent
example sentence; illustrative sentence; model sentence
custom; general rule; convention
precedent
example; illustration
monthly
example; exercise (for the reader)