clear, evident

JLPT N5 9 strokes

Words with this Kanji

Usage of

The character (xiǎn) primarily means 'clear' or 'evident.' It is often used to describe something that is obvious or clearly visible, whether it is a physical appearance, a fact, or an abstract concept like effort or emotion.

Common Contexts

  1. Describing something clearly visible or obvious: 显而易见 (xiǎn ér yì jiàn) means 'obvious' or 'evident.'
  2. Expressing that something appears or seems a certain way: 显得 (xiǎn de) is a common pattern meaning 'to appear' or 'to seem.'
  3. Revealing or showing something hidden: 显露 (xiǎn lù) means 'to reveal' or 'to show.'

Collocations and Patterns

  • 显而易见: obviously clear, used to emphasize something is evident.
  • 显得 + adjective: to appear or seem a certain way.
  • 显露 + noun: to reveal or show something.

Nuances

When using , speakers imply that the subject is unmistakably clear or noticeable. It is more formal and precise than just saying '' (can see). It often appears in written or formal spoken Chinese.

Common Confusion

Don't confuse with (xiàn), which means 'present' or 'current.' They sound similar but have different meanings and characters.

Using correctly helps learners express clarity and obviousness in various contexts, from describing visible facts to abstract impressions.

Example Sentences

His efforts are clearly visible, everyone admires him.

This problem appears very complicated and requires careful analysis.

His words reveal his true thoughts.