to drape over one's shoulders

JLPT N5 8 strokes

Words with this Kanji

Usage of

The character primarily means "to drape over one's shoulders" or "to put on loosely," often used with clothing items like shawls, coats, or scarves. It conveys the action of covering oneself in a casual or partial manner rather than fully wearing something tightly.

Common Collocations

  • (pījiān): shawl, a common item draped over shoulders.
  • (pī shàng): to put on (a coat or garment loosely).
  • (pīlù): to reveal or disclose, often used in formal contexts like unveiling plans or information.

Nuances and Usage Notes

While is often physical, as in draping clothing, it also appears in more abstract or formal contexts such as , meaning "to reveal" or "to disclose." This usage is quite common in news or official announcements.

Be careful not to confuse with 穿 (chuān), which means "to wear" in a more general and tighter sense. implies a looser, more casual covering.

Register and Tone

The physical use of is neutral and common in daily conversation. The form is more formal and often seen in written or formal spoken Chinese.

Example Sentences

She is draping a red shawl over her shoulders.

He put on his coat and got ready to go out.

Revealing the new plan requires everyone's support.