verb HSK 4
Traditional 導
to guide · to lead · to direct · to conduct
Meaning
导 means to guide, lead, or direct someone or something. It carries the sense of showing the way or providing direction. This character appears in many compound words related to guidance, leadership, and instruction.
Usage
导 is rarely used alone in modern Mandarin and typically appears in compound words like 领导 (leader), 导游 (tour guide), 指导 (to guide/instruct), or 导演 (director). When used independently in classical or formal contexts, it retains its core meaning of guiding or leading.
Examples
- 01这个决定导致了严重的后果。.This decision led to serious consequences.
- 02老师耐心地指导学生完成作业。.The teacher patiently guided the students to complete their homework.
Common collocations
- 导致to lead to; to cause
- 导演director (film/theater)
- 辅导to tutor; to coach
- 向导guide (person)
Antonyms
Origin
The traditional form 導 combines 道 (dào, path/way) with 寸 (cùn, hand), suggesting the idea of using one's hand to show someone the way or path.