to wrap, to entangle

JLPT N5 13 strokes

Words with this Kanji

Usage and Nuances

The verb (chán) primarily means "to wrap" or "to entangle." It often describes physically wrapping something tightly, such as rope around a package, or an animal coiling around prey. Beyond the literal sense, also conveys a figurative meaning of persistent or annoying attachment, like someone pestering or clinging to another.

Common Collocations

  • (chán zhù): to entangle or wrap tightly, often used for animals or objects.
  • 缠绕 (chán rào): to wind around, emphasizing twisting or spiraling.
  • (chán zhe): to cling to or pester persistently, often used in social contexts.

Register and Tone

is neutral in tone but can imply annoyance when used in social contexts (e.g., someone ). It is more formal than colloquial verbs like "纠缠" but less literary than classical terms.

Common Confusion

Don't confuse with (pán), which also means to coil or wind but is often used for objects like wires or threads in a more neutral or mechanical sense. emphasizes the wrapping or clinging aspect, sometimes with a sense of difficulty to escape.

Example Sentences

She wrapped the package tightly with a rope.

The snake coiled around its prey, unable to escape.

He always pesters me to help him with homework; it's really annoying.