Meaning
示 is a formal verb meaning to show, reveal, or indicate something to others. It appears frequently in compound words and formal contexts. As a standalone character, it's less common in daily speech but widely used in written and official language.
Usage
示 is typically found in formal or written contexts rather than casual conversation. It commonly appears in compounds like 表示 (to express), 显示 (to display), 指示 (to instruct), and 提示 (to prompt). When used alone, it carries a more literary or official tone.
Examples
- 01老师给学生示范了正确的写字姿势。.The teacher demonstrated the correct writing posture to the students.
- 02他向我示意不要说话。.He signaled to me not to speak.
Common collocations
- 示意to hint, to signal
- 示范to demonstrate, demonstration
- 示威to demonstrate (protest)
- 告示notice, announcement
Antonyms
Origin
示 is an ancient pictograph originally depicting an altar or sacred table where messages from spirits were revealed. The top portion (二) represents the altar surface, and the bottom strokes represent the supporting legs. This origin explains why 示 often appears as a radical in characters related to spirits, gods, and rituals (like 神, 祖, 祭).