Structure Analysis: 形声字，从殳（武器），耑声（duān，表音）。本义指分段（如"段落"），现指工作阶段（如"工段"）(Phonetic-semantic character: "殳" (weapon) + "耑" (phonetic). Originally meant "segment", now means "work phase".)
2. Pronunciation
Pinyin: Duàn (Fourth tone)
3. Meaning
Segment; section; part; paragraph; phase; period; measure word for length of cloth; means; method; way.
4. Common Words
段落 (duàn luò) Paragraph
阶段 (jiē duàn) Phase
手段 (shǒu duàn) Method
工段 (gōng duàn) Workshop section
5. Grammar & Usage
The character 段 (duàn) is primarily used as a noun, but also as a measure word:
As a noun: Refers to segments, sections, or parts of something. Example: 段落 (duàn luò) - paragraph
As a measure word: Used for length of cloth or similar materials. Example: 一段布 (yī duàn bù) - a length of cloth
In compound words: Often combined with other characters to form words related to segments or phases. Example: 阶段 (jiē duàn) - phase
To mean "means" or "method": When used in certain contexts. Example: 手段 (shǒu duàn) - means/method
6. Cultural Background
The character 段 (duàn) has various cultural significance:
In traditional Chinese literature, texts are often divided into 段落 (paragraphs) based on meaning and structure, which differs somewhat from Western paragraph divisions.
In Chinese martial arts, movements are often taught in segments (段落), with each segment focusing on specific techniques.
The concept of 阶段 (phases/stages) is important in traditional Chinese philosophy, particularly in understanding the natural cycle of things.
In Chinese opera, performances are divided into segments, each with its own musical and dramatic characteristics.
The use of 段 as a measure word for cloth reflects traditional Chinese textile measurement practices.
7. Example Sentence
Each paragraph needs a topic sentence. 每个段落都要有主题句。
Construction phases require strict supervision. 施工阶段需要严格监督。