to shine, to reflect, to illuminate

JLPT N3 13 strokes

Words with this Kanji

Usage of

The character (zhào) primarily means "to shine" or "to illuminate," often used when describing light or sunlight shining on something. For example, 阳光花朵 describes sunlight shining on flowers.

It also functions as a verb meaning "to follow" or "according to," used when instructing someone to act based on a rule, method, or example, as in 方法.

Additionally, can be used in a continuous aspect with (zhào zhe) to indicate an action done by following or referencing something, such as 地图餐厅.

Common Collocations

  • + noun (e.g., 地图): to do something according to or by referencing something.
  • 照顾 (zhàogù): to take care of, a common compound verb.
  • 照相 (zhàoxiàng): to take a photo.

Notes

When used to mean "to follow" or "according to," often implies careful adherence to a standard or example. It is different from (gēn) which can mean "to follow" in a more physical or casual sense. is more formal and often used in instructions or official contexts.

Example Sentences

The sunlight shines on the flowers, making them look especially beautiful.

Please do it according to my method, don’t change it arbitrarily.

He found that restaurant by following the map.