Meaning
戒 primarily means to quit or abstain from something, especially bad habits like smoking or drinking. It also means to guard against or be vigilant about something. As a noun, it can refer to a ring worn on the finger, or to Buddhist/religious precepts and commandments.
Usage
Most commonly used in compound words related to quitting addictions (戒烟, 戒酒) or warnings (警戒). When referring to rings, it's typically part of compounds like 戒指. The Buddhist precept meaning appears in religious contexts. Native speakers strongly associate this character with breaking bad habits.
Examples
- 01他下定决心戒烟了。.He's determined to quit smoking.
- 02医生建议他戒酒，对身体有好处。, .The doctor advised him to give up alcohol, as it would be good for his health.
Measure words
- 枚一枚戒指
Common collocations
- 戒烟quit smoking
- 戒酒quit drinking
- 戒毒quit drugs, drug rehabilitation
- 戒备to be on guard
Antonyms
Origin
The character combines 廾 (two hands) holding 戈 (a halberd/weapon), originally meaning to be on guard or vigilant. This evolved to mean restraining oneself or abstaining from something.