boundary, limit, line

JLPT N1 8 strokes

Words with this Kanji

Usage of

The character (xiàn) primarily means "to limit" or "to restrict." It is often used in contexts involving boundaries, restrictions, or caps on quantities, time, or space.

Common Collocations

  • (xiàn gāo): height limit, often seen on roads or tunnels.
  • (xiàn é): quota or limit on an amount, such as money or resources.
  • 时间有限 (shíjiān yǒu xiàn): limited time, emphasizing urgency.

Usage Notes

When using , the focus is on setting a clear boundary or maximum. It is frequently paired with measurable quantities like height, money, or time. Unlike some synonyms that imply a vague restriction, usually indicates a definite, enforceable limit.

Common Confusion

Don't confuse with 限制 (xiànzhì), which means "to restrict" or "to control" and often implies active enforcement or regulation. alone is more about the limit itself rather than the act of restricting.

Example Sentences

This road has a height limit of 3 meters; large vehicles cannot pass.

The company limits each person's monthly reimbursement to no more than 1,000

Time is limited; we must complete the task quickly.