Meanings of 比
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 比
Podcast: 比
Podcast: 比
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
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.
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.
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
Drill the tone of 比 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
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
Jason Etymology Detective
Case file: 比
Pictograph of two people side-by-side, conveying the meaning "to put together", "match", or "compare".
- 1The giveawayTwo spoons 匕 side-by-side; 匕 also provides the pronunciation
- 2On the record asideographic — someone drew an idea rather than an object.
Every clue here comes from the character's recorded structure — nothing is guessed.
Want the full history of 比? Jason searches the paleographic record, weighs the competing accounts and judges the popular story.
Charged once for this character — everyone reads it afterwards.Character Formation Type
What type of character formation is 比?
Decomposition of 比
Identify the Components
Which of these is a component of 比?
How to say to compare in Chinese
“to compare” in Chinese is比
The character 比 (bǐ) primarily functions as a comparative particle in Mandarin, used to indicate that one thing is greater or lesser than another. It is commonly used in sentences to compare qualities, quantities, or states, such as 'A is better than B'. Additionally, it can denote a ratio or association with another element.
When to use 比
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.
比 or something close to it
更 (gèng, more) — use 比 (bǐ) when making direct comparisons between two entities, while 更 (gèng) indicates an increase in degree without direct comparison.
What learners get wrong
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'.
Write 比
New here? to save your writing progress and earn XP.
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 12 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
姐姐____我大两岁。
My older sister is two years older than me.
Example Sentences for 比 (14)
Reorder the Sentence
This piece of clothing is more expensive than that one.
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).
Jason Recommends
Not sure what to learn after 比?
Jason picks three words from your level and explains why each one is worth your time next. It takes a free account so he knows what you already know.