Meaning
合 is a versatile character meaning 'to close,' 'to join,' or 'to combine.' It can describe physical closing (like closing a book), joining things together, or fitting/suiting a purpose. As an adjective it means 'in accordance with' or 'suitable.' It's also used as a measure word for rounds or bouts.
Usage
合 appears in many compound words related to combining, cooperation, and suitability. When pronounced as 'gě,' it's a traditional unit of volume (about 0.1 liter). Commonly seen in words like 合作 (cooperate), 合适 (suitable), and 结合 (combine). Native speakers use it to express things coming together, matching, or being appropriate.
Examples
- 01请把书合上。.Please close the book.
- 02这件衣服很合身。.This piece of clothing fits very well.
Common collocations
- 合上to close (a book, lid, etc.)
- 合影to take a group photo
- 合理reasonable
- 符合to conform to
Antonyms
Origin
The character 合 is a pictograph showing a lid (亼) closing over a vessel (口), representing the concept of closing or coming together.