to alter, to change, to improve, to remodel

JLPT N3 7 strokes

Words with this Kanji

Usage of (gǎi)

The character primarily means "to change," "to alter," or "to correct." It is commonly used when referring to modifying plans, correcting mistakes, or changing professions.

Common contexts

  • Changing plans or schedules: often used with words like 计划 (plan).
  • Correcting or revising written work: frequently paired with words like 文章 (article), 错误 (mistakes).
  • Changing careers or habits: used with (profession) or 习惯 (habit).

Collocations and patterns

  • 计划 (change the plan): used when adjusting arrangements.
  • (correct mistakes): used in educational or proofreading contexts.
  • (change profession): indicates switching careers.

Notes

When using , the focus is on making a deliberate change or correction. It differs from (huàn), which often means to exchange or replace one thing with another. For example, 计划 means to modify the plan, while 计划 would imply replacing the plan entirely.

Avoid confusing with (xiū), which often means to repair or fix physical objects, whereas is more about changes in abstract or procedural contexts.

Example Sentences

I need to change the plan because the weather forecast says it will rain.

This article has many mistakes; the teacher asked me to revise it before

He decided to change his profession, from a doctor to a writer.