variant of 最

JLPT N5 12 strokes

Words with this Kanji

Usage of

The adverb (zuì) is used to indicate the superlative degree, meaning "most" or "-est" in English. It is placed before adjectives or verbs to express the highest degree of a quality or preference.

Common contexts

  • Before adjectives to form superlatives: (the highest), 最好 (the best), (the hottest).
  • Before verbs to indicate the most frequent or preferred action: 喜欢 (like the most).

Collocations and patterns

Nuances

Using emphasizes the absolute top degree among a group or range. It is very common in everyday speech and writing. Avoid confusing with 比较 (comparative "more") or ("very"), as always indicates the highest degree.

Common confusion

Learners sometimes confuse with or 比较. Remember, always marks the superlative, not just a high degree. For example, means "very tall," but means "the tallest."

Example Sentences

He is the tallest student in our class.

Which kind of fruit do you like the most?

Now is the hottest time of the day.

This dish is the most delicious I have ever eaten.

His favorite sport is basketball.