to chop

JLPT N5 9 strokes

Words with this Kanji

Usage of

The verb primarily means "to chop" or "to cut down" with a sharp tool like an axe. It is often used literally when talking about chopping wood or trees. However, also has figurative uses, especially in business or daily life, where it means "to cut" or "reduce," such as cutting budgets or prices.

Common Collocations

  • (kǎn shù): to chop down a tree
  • (kǎn jià): to bargain or negotiate a lower price
  • (kǎn diào): to cut off or reduce something (budget, expenses)

Notes

When used in bargaining contexts, implies active negotiation to lower a price, which is common in markets or informal sales. In formal contexts, is less common for price reduction; words like 减少 or are preferred. Avoid confusing with (gē), which also means "to cut" but is more often used for slicing or cutting with a knife rather than chopping.

is a versatile verb that can be literal or metaphorical depending on context, so pay attention to the objects it takes and the setting.

Example Sentences

He chopped down a big tree with an axe.

The boss decided to cut the budget for this project.

He bargained at the market, trying to buy something cheaper.