Meanings of 引
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About 引
Podcast: 引
Podcast: 引
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AI Study Notes for 引
引 (yǐn) vs 拉 (lā) — use 引 when emphasizing drawing or guiding, while 拉 typically implies pulling with force.
Learners often confuse 引 with similar verbs like 拉 (lā, to pull) or 带 (dài, to bring). It is generally used in both formal and informal contexts, but pay attention to its collocations, such as 引导 (yǐndǎo, to guide) and 引起 (yǐnqǐ, to cause). Be mindful of the third tone 'yǐn' to avoid mispronunciations.
While 引 is not explicitly listed in HSK levels, it connects with many verbs used in daily conversation. Students should focus on its various meanings and practice using it in different sentence structures to enhance their fluency.
Learners often misuse 引 when they should use 拉 (lā). For example, saying '引门' (yǐn mén, to pull the door) instead of '拉门' (lā mén) is incorrect. Make sure to choose the right verb based on context.
Pronunciation of 引
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Jason Explains 引 to You
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Etymology of 引
Pictograph of a bowstring being pulled back.
To pull back a bow's 弓 drawstring 丨
Origin
What kind of character is 引?
Decomposition of 引
Parts
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How to say to draw (e.g. a bow) in Chinese
“to draw (e.g. a bow)” in Chinese is引
The character 引 (yǐn) primarily means 'to draw' or 'to pull.' It is commonly used in various contexts, such as drawing a bow, guiding someone, or attracting attention. Additionally, it can imply involving someone in a situation or providing justification, making it quite versatile in usage.
When to use 引
Learners often confuse 引 with similar verbs like 拉 (lā, to pull) or 带 (dài, to bring). It is generally used in both formal and informal contexts, but pay attention to its collocations, such as 引导 (yǐndǎo, to guide) and 引起 (yǐnqǐ, to cause). Be mindful of the third tone 'yǐn' to avoid mispronunciations.
引 or something close to it
引 (yǐn) vs 拉 (lā) — use 引 when emphasizing drawing or guiding, while 拉 typically implies pulling with force.
What learners get wrong
Learners often misuse 引 when they should use 拉 (lā). For example, saying '引门' (yǐn mén, to pull the door) instead of '拉门' (lā mén) is incorrect. Make sure to choose the right verb based on context.
Write 引
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Practice writing 引 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 引
引 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 14 related meanings, each with its own usage notes below. The patterns below break down its most common sentence frames, with example sentences and practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) for each one.
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这是我引的弓。
This is the bow that I drew.
Fill the gap
Type the missing word. Pinyin works; then pick the character.
我们应该不断地____导他，好让他对自己有信心。
We should constantly guide him so that he has confidence in himself.
Common Confusions with 引
Similar in appearance but different meaning.
Which one
Which one means “to draw (e.g. a bow)”?
Usage Notes for 引
Learners often confuse 引 with similar verbs like 拉 (pull) or 拖 (drag). Use 引 specifically when you mean to draw or attract.
我想引你来参加活动。
I want to attract you to participate in the event.
Get it right
Type the missing word. Pinyin works; then pick the character.
我想____你来参加活动。
I want to attract you to participate in the event.
Example Sentences for 引 (15)
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Cultural Notes for 引
The character 引 is often associated with pulling or drawing. In Chinese archery, drawing the bowstring is crucial for precision and accuracy, reflecting the importance of focus and control in Chinese culture.
In many cultures, the concept of 'drawing' or 'pulling' extends beyond physical actions to include emotional and social aspects, such as attracting friends or leading a group. This highlights the universal nature of communication and connection.
Word Family of 引
Characters with 引
What does 蚓 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 引
Common phrases that include 引 are 引导 (yǐndǎo), meaning 'to guide,' and 引起 (yǐnqǐ), meaning 'to cause or provoke.' These phrases showcase the versatility of the character in different contexts.
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