fork

JLPT N5 3 strokes

Words with this Kanji

Basic Meaning

The character (chā) primarily means 'fork' as a utensil used for eating. It also refers to a fork-like shape or a point where something splits into two branches, such as a fork in the road.

Usage in Daily Life

You will often see used when talking about eating utensils, especially forks. For example, 叉子 (chāzi) means 'fork'. It is common in dining contexts.

Figurative and Spatial Use

Besides the literal fork, is used to describe places where paths or roads split, like (fork in the road). This usage helps describe directions or locations.

Common Collocations

  • 叉子 (fork): the eating utensil
  • (fork in the road): a place where a road divides
  • 叉子 (use a fork): describing the action of eating with a fork

Tips

Be careful not to confuse (chā) with other similar-sounding words. When used alone, it usually refers to the utensil or a branching point. In compound words, context clarifies the meaning. It is a neutral word suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

Example Sentences

Please give me a fork, I want to eat salad.

This road splits into two forks ahead.

He used a fork to pick up the food and eat.