to pierce, to penetrate, to pass through

JLPT N5 10 strokes

Words with this Kanji

Usage of (tòu)

The character primarily means 'to pass through' or 'to penetrate.' It is often used to describe light or objects passing through something transparent or semi-transparent, such as sunlight透过窗户 (passing through the window). It can also express the idea of something being revealed or shown clearly, like emotions (revealing) from someone's eyes.

Common Collocations

Nuances

often implies a physical or metaphorical penetration or clarity. When used with light or fabric, it emphasizes transparency or thinness. When used with emotions or expressions, it highlights subtle revelation.

Avoid Confusion

Do not confuse with 穿 (chuān), which also means 'to wear' or 'to pierce,' but 穿 focuses more on the action of going through, while emphasizes the effect of passing through or revealing.

Example Sentences

Sunlight passes through the window and shines into the room.

His eyes reveal a trace of worry.

The fabric of this clothing is very thin, almost see-through.