しも

under, below, beneath

JLPT N3

Character Breakdown

Core Meanings and Uses

The character "" primarily means "down" or "below" and is used to indicate physical position or direction. It also frequently means "next" when referring to time or sequence, such as "" (the next stop) or "" (next time). Additionally, it functions as a verb meaning "to get off" or "to descend," as in "" (get off the vehicle) or "" (go downstairs).

Common Collocations and Patterns

  • (xià chē): to get off a vehicle
  • (xià cì): next time
  • (xià miàn): below, underneath
  • (xià yí zhàn): the next stop

These collocations are very common in daily conversation and help specify direction, sequence, or action.

Usage Notes

When "" is used to indicate sequence (like "next time"), it often precedes a noun indicating the event or time. When used as a verb, it usually follows the subject and precedes the object or location. Avoid confusing "" with "" (shàng), which means "up" or "above."

Example Sentences

Please sit down below.

He got off the car.

The next stop is Beijing.

Please come earlier next time.

He went downstairs to buy something.