sound, noise

JLPT N3 7 strokes

Words with this Kanji

Understanding (shēng)

The character primarily means "sound" or "voice." It is used to refer to any audible noise, including human voices, animal sounds, or other noises. When talking about someone's voice, often conveys qualities like tone, pitch, or emotional expression.

Common Uses

  • 声音 (shēng yīn): sound or voice, a very common compound.
  • (xiǎo shēng): speaking quietly or in a low voice.
  • (dà shēng): speaking loudly.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 声音 (loud sound): used to describe volume.
  • 说话声音 (speaking voice): refers to the voice used when talking.
  • 声音 (hear a sound): common phrase to indicate perceiving sound.

Usage Notes

When using , it often appears in contexts related to hearing or speaking. It can describe both the physical sound and the quality of a voice. Unlike some synonyms that focus only on human voice (like 语音), is broader and can refer to any sound.

Be careful not to confuse with 声调 (tone in language) or 声明 (statement), which are compound words with different meanings.

Tone and Register

is neutral and common in both spoken and written Chinese. It is appropriate in formal and informal contexts.

This character is essential for discussing sounds, voices, and related auditory experiences in everyday conversation.

Example Sentences

I heard a sound coming from far away.

His voice is very magnetic; everyone likes to listen.

Please speak more quietly, don’t disturb others.