Meanings of 夹
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About 夹
Podcast: 夹
Podcast: 夹
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AI Study Notes for 夹
夹 (jiā) vs 挤 (jǐ) — use 夹 for pressing or placing between two things, while 挤 emphasizes squeezing or forcing out liquid.
Be cautious of the different pronunciations of 夹 (jiā and jiá), as they can change the meaning in context. This character is often used in both formal and informal settings, but learners should note its frequent collocation with words like '书' (book) to mean a folder. The third tone can be tricky; ensure clarity to avoid confusion with similar-sounding words.
While 夹 is not specifically listed in HSK levels, it can be useful for learners at HSK 3 and above. Focus on its usage in everyday phrases and combine it with other vocabulary words related to placement or arrangement to enhance understanding.
Learners often confuse the pronunciation of 夹 (jiā) with similar-sounding characters. For example, some might say 'jiá' in contexts where 'jiā' is correct, leading to misunderstanding. Always check the context to ensure you're using the right tone.
Pronunciation of 夹
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Etymology of 夹
Simplified form of 夾. Pictograph of a person (大) being pushed by people on both sides.
A person 夫 stuck between two others 丷
Jason Etymology Detective
Case file: 夹
Simplified form of 夾. Pictograph of a person (大) being pushed by people on both sides.
- 1The giveawayA person 夫 stuck between two others 丷
- 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 夹? 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 夹?
Decomposition of 夹
Identify the Components
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How to say to press from either side in Chinese
“to press from either side” in Chinese is夹
The character 夹 (jiā) primarily means to press or squeeze something from both sides, as in placing an object between two things. It can also refer to carrying something under the armpit or mixing items together. This character is commonly used in contexts relating to placement or arrangement, such as in a folder or when discussing layered garments.
When to use 夹
Be cautious of the different pronunciations of 夹 (jiā and jiá), as they can change the meaning in context. This character is often used in both formal and informal settings, but learners should note its frequent collocation with words like '书' (book) to mean a folder. The third tone can be tricky; ensure clarity to avoid confusion with similar-sounding words.
夹 or something close to it
夹 (jiā) vs 挤 (jǐ) — use 夹 for pressing or placing between two things, while 挤 emphasizes squeezing or forcing out liquid.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse the pronunciation of 夹 (jiā) with similar-sounding characters. For example, some might say 'jiá' in contexts where 'jiā' is correct, leading to misunderstanding. Always check the context to ensure you're using the right tone.
Write 夹
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Practice writing 夹 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 夹
夹 functions as a noun — it names a person, place, thing, or concept. Place it as a subject before the verb (主+谓) or as an object after the verb (谓+宾). Most Chinese nouns require a measure word between the number and the noun (e.g. 一个/三本). It carries 19 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
他总是穿着一件从来不洗的脏兮兮的旧____克。
He never washed, and always wore a filthy old jacket.
Common Confusions with 夹
Similar pronunciation and part of speech but different meanings.
Similar pronunciation but different meanings.
Spot the Difference
Which character means "to press from either side"?
Example Sentences for 夹 (10)
Word Family of 夹
Compound Meaning
What does 侠 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 夹
You can say '把书夹在桌子上' (bǎ shū jiā zài zhuōzi shàng), meaning 'Put the book between the table.'
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