Structure Analysis: 会意字，从又（手），从寸（法度）。本义指核对（如"对照"），现指正确（如"正确"）(Ideogrammic compound: "又" (hand) + "寸" (measure). Originally meant "verify", now means "correct".)
2. Pronunciation
Pinyin: Duì (Fourth tone)
3. Meaning
Correct; right; proper; pair; couple; to face; to oppose; to treat; to answer; to match; to check; opposite; to; for.
4. Common Words
对话 (duì huà) Dialogue
对比 (duì bǐ) Contrast
对手 (duì shǒu) Opponent
对错 (duì cuò) Right or wrong
5. Grammar & Usage
The character 对 (duì) has multiple uses in Chinese grammar:
As an adjective: Meaning "correct" or "right". Example: 对的 (duì de) - correct
As a noun: Referring to a pair or couple. Example: 一对夫妻 (yī duì fū qī) - a couple
As a verb: To face, oppose, or treat. Example: 面对困难 (miàn duì kùn nán) - face difficulties
As a preposition: Indicating direction or relation. Example: 对我来说 (duì wǒ lái shuō) - for me
In set phrases: Many common expressions use 对. Example: 对牛弹琴 (duì niú tán qín) - to play the lute to a cow (to speak to someone who doesn't understand)
Measure word: For pairs of certain items. Example: 一对耳环 (yī duì ěr huán) - a pair of earrings
6. Cultural Background
The character 对 (duì) holds significant cultural meaning in China:
In Chinese philosophy, the concept of 对 (balance or opposition) relates to the yin-yang (阴阳) principles of complementary forces.
Traditional Chinese medicine emphasizes maintaining 对 (balance) in the body's energy systems.
Chinese poetry often uses 对仗 (duì zhàng) - parallelism - as a key structural element.
Chinese weddings traditionally include 对戒 (duì jiè) - paired rings - as symbols of commitment.
The concept of 对 (correctness) is deeply rooted in Confucian teachings about proper behavior and relationships.
In modern Chinese society, 对 (right) vs 错 (wrong) continues to be an important moral framework.
7. Example Sentence
Cross-check the documents. 对照检查文件。
Find correct answers. 找出正确答案。
8. Memory Tips
Combine "又" (hand) + "寸" (inch) → Measuring with hands for accuracy. 组合“又”+“寸”→ 用手测量确保精确。