to disperse, to let go, to relax

JLPT N3 15 strokes

Words with this Kanji

Usage and Nuances of (sǎ)

The character primarily means "to scatter" or "to sprinkle," often used when talking about spreading seeds, salt, or other small particles. It can also mean "to let go" or "to relax," especially in colloquial expressions where someone releases tension or behaves freely.

Common Collocations

  • (sǎ zhǒng): to sow seeds, used in agricultural contexts.
  • (sā huānr): to romp or frolic happily, often describing children or animals.
  • 撒谎 (sā huǎng): to tell a lie, a fixed phrase where means "to spread" lies.

Register and Tone

is a neutral verb, suitable for both formal and informal contexts depending on collocation. When used in idiomatic expressions like 撒谎, it is very common in daily speech.

Common Confusion

Don't confuse with (sǎ), which also means "to sprinkle" but is more often used with liquids. is more about scattering solids or figurative release.

Understanding helps learners describe actions involving scattering or releasing, and recognize idiomatic uses in everyday conversation.

Example Sentences

He scattered some seeds in the garden.

The children are running around happily on the playground.

He finally let go of the burden in his heart.