Meanings of 比
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About 比
Podcast: 比
Podcast: 比
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AI Study Notes for 比
更 (gèng, more) — use 比 (bǐ) when making direct comparisons between two entities, while 更 (gèng) indicates an increase in degree without direct comparison.
Imagine two people, each holding a sign that says '比' (bǐ) while they compare their heights. The character looks like two sticks (人) standing side by side, ready to measure who is taller, reinforcing the meaning of comparison and the pronunciation 'bǐ'.
Be careful to use the correct structure when using 比 in comparisons, often following the format: 'A比B + adjective'. Common mistakes include omitting the adjective or using it incorrectly. In formal writing, ensure that comparisons are clear and precise.
As an HSK Level 2 word, 比 connects with other comparative forms and adjectives you will learn. Focus on practicing how to use it in sentences to compare different objects or qualities, which will help reinforce your understanding of basic sentence structures.
In Chinese culture, comparisons are often used in various contexts, such as education and business, to emphasize performance and results. The use of 比 can reflect the competitive nature of society, where individuals often measure their success against others.
Learners often forget to include the adjective when using 比, such as saying '我比你' instead of '我比你高'. Another common mistake is using the wrong tone, pronouncing it as 'bi' instead of 'bǐ'.
Pronunciation of 比
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Etymology of 比
Pictograph of two people side-by-side, conveying the meaning "to put together", "match", or "compare".
Two spoons 匕 side-by-side; 匕 also provides the pronunciation
Character Formation Type
What type of character formation is 比?
Decomposition of 比
Identify the Components
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Write 比
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Practice writing 比 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 比
比 functions as a preposition (often called a "coverb" in Chinese). It introduces a phrase that comes BEFORE the main verb (我在家吃饭, 给妈妈打电话), unlike English which puts prepositions after the verb. It carries 13 related meanings, each with its own usage notes below. The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.
Complete the Sentence
今天____较冷，多穿点。
It's fairly cold today — wear more layers.
Example Sentences for 比 (14)
Reorder the Sentence
This piece of clothing is more expensive than that one.
Cultural Notes for 比
In Chinese culture, comparisons are often used in various contexts, such as education and business, to emphasize performance and results. The use of 比 can reflect the competitive nature of society, where individuals often measure their success against others.
Word Family of 比
Compound Meaning
What does 屁 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 比
You can use 比 by saying 'A 比 B + adjective', for example, '我比你高' (I am taller than you).