to bury

JLPT N3 10 strokes

Words with this Kanji

Meaning and Usage

The verb "" (mái) primarily means "to bury" something physically underground, such as a pet, cables, or objects. It is often used in contexts involving burial or concealment beneath the surface.

Besides the literal meaning, "" can also be used metaphorically to describe hiding or suppressing something intangible, like a secret or feelings, "心里" (buried in the heart).

Common Collocations

  • 埋葬 (mái zàng): to bury a dead body, used in formal or solemn contexts.
  • 秘密 (mái mìmì): to keep a secret hidden.
  • (mái diànlǎn): to bury cables underground, common in construction or engineering.

Usage Notes

"" is a transitive verb and usually requires an object that is buried. When used metaphorically, it often appears with abstract nouns like "秘密" (secret) or "" (heart).

Avoid confusing "" with "埋伏" (ambush) or "" (to pay the bill), which are different words despite sharing the character.

The tone is neutral and appropriate in both formal and informal contexts depending on the collocation.

Example Sentences

They decided to bury the pet in the backyard.

He buried the secret in his heart and told no one.

The workers are burying the cables.