drip, leak, vent

JLPT N5 8 strokes

Words with this Kanji

Usage and Nuances

The character (xiè) primarily means 'to leak,' 'to drip,' or 'to divulge.' It is often used in contexts involving liquids leaking from containers or pipes, as well as the figurative sense of information or emotions being revealed unintentionally.

Common Collocations

  • 泄露 (xièlòu): to leak (information or secrets)
  • 泄气 (xièqì): to lose confidence or to deflate (literally 'leak air')
  • (xièhóng): to release floodwaters

Register and Tone

is neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. When referring to leaking information, it often implies an accidental or unauthorized disclosure.

Common Confusions

Do not confuse with (shèn), which also means 'to seep' or 'to permeate' but usually refers to slow infiltration rather than active leaking. often implies a more noticeable or active leak.

Summary

Use when talking about liquids leaking out, secrets being revealed, or emotions being expressed. It is versatile and appears in many compound words related to leaking or venting.

Example Sentences

The water pipe broke, and water started leaking out.

He accidentally leaked the company's secrets.

His emotions finally came out; he couldn't help but cry.