to kidnap, to abduct

JLPT N5 8 strokes

Words with this Kanji

Meanings and Usage

The character (guǎi) primarily has two common meanings: to 'kidnap' or 'abduct' someone, and to 'turn' or 'make a turn' when giving directions.

Usage in Kidnapping Context

When used in the context of crime, means to abduct or kidnap someone, often implying illegal or forceful taking away. This usage is serious and common in news or police reports.

Usage in Directions

In everyday conversation, is frequently used to instruct someone to turn at a corner or intersection, often combined with directions like (turn left) or (turn right).

Figurative Use

can also appear in phrases like (guǎipiàn), meaning to trick or deceive someone, often by persuasion or manipulation rather than force.

Common Collocations

  • / : turn left / turn right, used in giving directions.
  • : to kidnap or abduct someone.
  • : to deceive or trick someone.

Notes

Be careful not to confuse (to turn) with (to kidnap) in context. The tone and surrounding words usually clarify the meaning. In polite or formal speech, kidnapping is often expressed with more specific terms like (yòuguǎi).

Example Sentences

That child was kidnapped by bad people, everyone is very worried.

Turn left at the intersection ahead, then go straight to reach the school.

He used sweet words to trick many people into investing in his project.