to change, to convert, to reform

JLPT N3 4 strokes

Words with this Kanji

Meaning and Usage

The character (huà) primarily means "to change," "to transform," or "to convert." It is often used as a suffix to indicate the process of becoming or turning into something else, such as in globalization (全球) or modernization (现代化).

Common Collocations

  • 全球 (quánqiú huà): globalization, indicating worldwide integration.
  • 变化 (biànhuà): change, transformation.
  • 美化 (měihuà): beautify, to make something more beautiful.

Usage Notes

is frequently used in both verbs and nouns to express transformation or change. When used as a verb, it often implies a process rather than an instantaneous change. It can also appear in compound words to denote the concept of "-ization" or "-ification" in English.

Common Confusions

Don't confuse with (biàn), which also means "change" but often refers to a more immediate or visible change. tends to emphasize the process or result of transformation, especially in abstract or formal contexts.

Example Sentences

Society is constantly changing.

He transformed the waste materials into artworks.

Globalization has brought cultural exchange.