noun / verb / adjective HSK 4
happy · joy · to like · to be fond of · happiness
Meaning
喜 is a fundamental character expressing joy, happiness, and liking. It appears in many common compounds related to positive emotions and celebrations. As a standalone character, it often refers to joyful events, especially weddings and births.
Usage
While 喜 can be used alone in classical or formal contexts, modern spoken Mandarin typically uses it in compounds like 喜欢 (to like) or 欢喜 (happy). The character appears prominently in wedding decorations and announcements. It's more literary than casual when used alone.
Examples
- 01家里有喜事，大家都很高兴。, .There's a happy occasion in the family, everyone is very happy.
- 02这真是可喜可贺的消息！!This is truly gratifying and congratulatory news!
Common collocations
- 喜事happy occasion (especially weddings)
- 可喜gratifying, heartening
- 喜讯good news
- 喜气joyful atmosphere
Antonyms
Origin
The character 喜 combines 壴 (a drum) with 口 (mouth), originally depicting the joy of singing and drumming during celebrations. This reflects ancient Chinese ceremonial music and festivity.