near

JLPT N4 7 strokes

Words with this Kanji

Meaning and Usage

The word "" (jìn) primarily means "near" or "close" in terms of physical distance. It is commonly used to describe proximity between places or objects, such as "学校" (My home is very close to the school).

Besides physical closeness, "" is also used in temporal contexts to mean "recent" or "near in time," as in "最近" (recently). This temporal use is very common in everyday conversation and writing.

Common Collocations

  • + (e.g., 学校): indicates physical closeness to a place.
  • 最近 (zuìjìn): means "recently" or "lately," used to talk about recent events or changes.
  • : a polite request to sit closer, showing how "" can be used in interpersonal contexts.

Usage Notes

When using "" to describe distance, it often appears with verbs like (lí, "to be from") or (zuò, "to sit"). In temporal expressions, it usually combines with (zuì) to form 最近. Avoid confusing "" with "" (jìn, "to enter"), which sounds the same but has a different meaning.

Register and Tone

"" is neutral and widely used in both spoken and written Mandarin. It is appropriate in formal and informal contexts.

Summary

"" is a versatile word that helps express closeness in space and time. Mastering its use will improve your ability to describe locations and recent events naturally.

Example Sentences

My home is very close to the school.

Recently, the weather has been getting hotter and hotter.

Could you please sit a bit closer?

This shop is very close to the subway station; it only takes five minutes on

In recent years, technology has developed very quickly.