Meanings of 合
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About 合
Podcast: 合
Podcast: 合
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AI Study Notes for 合
Imagine two hands coming together to form a '合' shape, as they join forces to close a deal. The top part looks like a roof (symbolizing protection), while the bottom part represents the ground (symbolizing stability). Together, they signify unity and closure.
Common mistakes include confusing 合 (gě) with 盒 (hé), which means box. Ensure you use the correct tone for the intended meaning, as mispronouncing it can lead to misunderstandings. This character is often found in phrases like 合作 (hézuò, collaboration) and 合适 (héshì, suitable).
While 合 is not part of the official HSK levels, it connects well with HSK vocabulary related to cooperation and fitting in, such as 适合 (shìhé, to be suitable). Students should focus on its various contexts and how it forms compound words.
In traditional Chinese culture, the concept of joining or uniting is significant, especially in contexts like family gatherings or business partnerships, symbolizing harmony and collaboration.
Learners often confuse 合 (gě) with 盒 (hé) due to similar pronunciation. For example, saying 合子 (gězi) instead of 盒子 (hézi) for 'box' is a common mistake.
Pronunciation of 合
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Etymology of 合
Pictograph of two mouths facing each other.
Character Formation Type
What type of character formation is 合?
Decomposition of 合
Identify the Components
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Write 合
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Practice writing 合 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 合
合 functions as a verb — the action or state of the sentence. The Chinese order is Subject + Verb + Object (我吃饭). Negate it with 不 (habitual / future) or 没(有) (completed action). Add aspect markers like 了, 过, 着 directly after the verb. It carries 15 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
这件衣服不大不小，正____适。
This piece of clothing is neither too big nor too small — it fits perfectly.
Common Confusions with 合
Similar phonetic but different meanings and usage.
Spot the Difference
Which character means "100 ml"?
Example Sentences for 合 (10)
Cultural Notes for 合
In Chinese culture, the character '合' symbolizes harmony and unity. It is often used in phrases that represent togetherness, such as '合作' (cooperate) and '合并' (merge).
In traditional Chinese culture, the concept of joining or uniting is significant, especially in contexts like family gatherings or business partnerships, symbolizing harmony and collaboration.
Word Family of 合
Compound Meaning
What does 给 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 合
Some common phrases that include 合 are '合适' (héshì), meaning 'suitable,' and '合并' (hébìng), meaning 'to merge.' These phrases demonstrate the versatility of the character in different contexts.