knot, tie

JLPT N5 9 strokes

Words with this Kanji

Core Meaning

The character (jié) primarily means "to tie" or "to knot," often used literally for tying things like shoelaces or ropes. It also extends metaphorically to "forming" or "establishing" relationships or agreements, such as marriage or partnerships.

Common Uses

  1. Literal tying: can describe physically tying knots, e.g., (tie shoelaces).
  2. Marriage: 结婚 means "to get married," a very common collocation.
  3. Results or conclusions: can indicate producing outcomes or conclusions, e.g., 成果 (produce results).

Collocations and Patterns

  • 结婚 (jié hūn): to marry; a fixed phrase.
  • 结账 (jié zhàng): to settle a bill; common in restaurants or shops.
  • 结局 (jié jú): ending or conclusion, often of stories or events.
  • (jié chéng): to form (a group, alliance, etc.).

Usage Notes

When used in the context of marriage or agreements, implies a formal or binding connection. In everyday speech, 结账 is very common when paying bills. Avoid confusing with (jiě), which means "to untie" or "to solve." The character often appears in compound words related to binding or concluding.

Tone and Register

is neutral in tone and widely used in both formal and informal contexts. It is a versatile character essential for intermediate and advanced learners, especially in social and transactional situations.

Example Sentences

Please help me tie my shoelaces properly.

They got married and live happily.

This meeting produced many valuable results.