看望

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Character Breakdown

Usage and Nuances

The verb 看望 (kàn wàng) specifically means to visit someone, often with a caring or respectful tone. It is commonly used when visiting relatives, friends, or people who are sick or elderly. Unlike a casual visit, 看望 implies a purpose of showing concern or maintaining close relationships.

Common Collocations

  • 看望亲戚 (visit relatives): Used during holidays or family gatherings.
  • 看望 (visit the sick): Shows care and sympathy.
  • 看望 (go to visit): Indicates the action of going somewhere to see someone.

Register and Tone

看望 is polite and somewhat formal, suitable for family, elders, or people you respect. It is less casual than 见面 (to meet) or 拜访 (to pay a formal visit).

Common Confusion

Don't confuse 看望 with (to look) alone; 看望 always involves visiting a person. Also, it differs from 探望, which is more formal and often used in official or solemn contexts.

Example Sentences

I plan to visit my sick grandfather in the hospital this weekend.

During the Spring Festival, our whole family visits relatives.

He often visits his grandmother living in the nursing home.