Core Meaning
The character 刺 primarily means 'thorn' or 'spine,' referring to sharp, pointed objects like those on plants or animals. It also functions as a verb meaning 'to stab' or 'to pierce.'
Figurative Use
Beyond the literal sense, 刺 is often used metaphorically to describe something painful or hurtful, such as words or feelings that 'sting' or 'prick' emotionally.
Common Collocations
- 刺痛 (cì tòng): sharp pain, a stabbing pain
- 刺激 (cì jī): to stimulate, to provoke
- 刺杀 (cì shā): to assassinate, to stab to death
Usage Notes
When used as a verb, 刺 often implies a quick, sharp action. It can describe physical stabbing or emotional provocation. Be careful not to confuse 刺 with 扎 (zhā), which also means 'to prick' but is more general and less intense.
Register and Tone
The word 刺 is neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It appears frequently in literary and everyday language, especially when describing pain or sharp objects.
Core Meaning
The character 刺 primarily means 'thorn' or 'spine,' referring to sharp, pointed objects like those on plants or animals. It also functions as a verb meaning 'to stab' or 'to pierce.'
Figurative Use
Beyond the literal sense, 刺 is often used metaphorically to describe something painful or hurtful, such as words or feelings that 'sting' or 'prick' emotionally.
Common Collocations
- 刺痛 (cì tòng): sharp pain, a stabbing pain
- 刺激 (cì jī): to stimulate, to provoke
- 刺杀 (cì shā): to assassinate, to stab to death
Usage Notes
When used as a verb, 刺 often implies a quick, sharp action. It can describe physical stabbing or emotional provocation. Be careful not to confuse 刺 with 扎 (zhā), which also means 'to prick' but is more general and less intense.
Register and Tone
The word 刺 is neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It appears frequently in literary and everyday language, especially when describing pain or sharp objects.
Core Meaning
The character 刺 primarily means 'thorn' or 'spine,' referring to sharp, pointed objects like those on plants or animals. It also functions as a verb meaning 'to stab' or 'to pierce.'
Figurative Use
Beyond the literal sense, 刺 is often used metaphorically to describe something painful or hurtful, such as words or feelings that 'sting' or 'prick' emotionally.
Common Collocations
- 刺痛 (cì tòng): sharp pain, a stabbing pain
- 刺激 (cì jī): to stimulate, to provoke
- 刺杀 (cì shā): to assassinate, to stab to death
Usage Notes
When used as a verb, 刺 often implies a quick, sharp action. It can describe physical stabbing or emotional provocation. Be careful not to confuse 刺 with 扎 (zhā), which also means 'to prick' but is more general and less intense.
Register and Tone
The word 刺 is neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It appears frequently in literary and everyday language, especially when describing pain or sharp objects.