horizontal

JLPT N3 15 strokes

Words with this Kanji

Meaning and Usage

The character (héng) primarily means "horizontal" or "across." It is commonly used to describe orientation, such as placing objects or lines horizontally. Beyond the literal spatial meaning, can also describe behavior that is domineering, rude, or acting without regard for rules or others.

Common Collocations

  • (héngzhe zǒu): to walk recklessly or cross the street without following rules.
  • (héngzhe fàng): to place something horizontally.
  • 性格 (xìnggé hěn héng): describing someone as domineering or aggressive.

Usage Notes

When used to describe objects or directions, is neutral and simply indicates orientation. However, when describing a person's behavior or attitude, carries a negative connotation implying rudeness or arrogance. It is important not to confuse (héng) with (shù), which means "vertical."

Common Confusion

Learners sometimes confuse (héng) with other directional words like (cè, side) or (xié, slanting). specifically means perfectly horizontal or across. Also, the adjective use describing personality is informal and often used in spoken Chinese to criticize someone's attitude.

Example Sentences

Please place this paper horizontally.

He crossed the street recklessly without looking at the traffic lights.

He has a domineering personality and often loses his temper with others.