zi2 si6指事
Jyutpingzi2 si6
Yalejí sih
Definition
An ideogram; one of the six classifications of Chinese characters representing abstract concepts.
neutralschool
How it's used
Categorizing characters as 指事 is part of the traditional 六書 system of Chinese philology. It specifically refers to characters that use abstract symbols to indicate meaning, such as a line above or below a horizontal bar to represent position. Unlike 象形, which depicts physical objects, 指事 focuses on representing concepts that cannot be easily drawn.
Examples
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse 指事 with 象形, but remember that 象形 characters are pictorial representations of concrete objects, whereas 指事 characters are symbolic representations of abstract concepts.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
