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Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

The character "" (zhèn) primarily refers to a military formation or disposition of troops. However, it is also commonly used as a measure word to describe a short period or a burst of an action or phenomenon, such as a gust of wind or a bout of coughing.

Common Collocations

  • 战斗 (zhàndòu zhènxíng): battle formation, used in military contexts.
  • (yí zhèn fēng): a gust of wind, describing a brief natural phenomenon.
  • (yí zhèn xiàoshēng): a burst of laughter, indicating a short duration of sound or action.

Usage Notes

When used to describe time or duration, "" often follows the numeral "" (one) to indicate a short, often sudden, period. It conveys a sense of temporariness and is frequently used in spoken Chinese. In military contexts, it is more formal and refers to the arrangement of troops.

Common Confusions

"" can be confused with "" (duàn), which also relates to segments or periods but usually refers to longer or more defined sections. "" emphasizes short bursts or formations, while "" is more about divisions or stages.

Example Sentences

The soldiers quickly formed a battle formation.

He coughed for a while, then got better.

This gust of wind is strong, making the leaves rustle.