Learn a Chinese Character - 挤

1. Character Basics

Radical: 扌 (shǒu radical, "hand" radical)

Stroke Count: 9

Stroke Order:

2. Pronunciation

Pinyin: jǐ

3. Meaning

to squeeze, to press, to push, to crowd, to jostle

4. Common Words

• 拥挤 (yōng jǐ) - crowded, congested
• 挤压 (jǐ yā) - squeeze, press
• 挤进 (jǐ jìn) - squeeze in, push into
• 挤出 (jǐ chū) - squeeze out
• 挤占 (jǐ zhàn) - occupy by pushing others out
• 挤奶 (jǐ nǎi) - milk (a cow)

5. Grammar & Usage

1. Used as a transitive verb meaning "to squeeze" or "to press"

2. Often used with directional complements like 进 (in), 出 (out), 上 (up)

3. Can be used in both literal and figurative senses

4. When describing crowded places, often used in the adjective form 拥挤 (yōngjǐ)

6. Cultural Background

The character 挤 reflects the experience of living in densely populated areas, which has been common throughout Chinese history. In many Chinese cities, especially during rush hours, public transportation and public spaces can be very crowded, making this character an important part of daily vocabulary.

7. Example Sentence

8. Memory Tips

The character 挤 consists of 扌 (hand radical) on the left and 齐 (qí, meaning "整齐" or "same") on the right. Imagine using your hand (扌) to make things come together in a tight space or to make them the same (齐) by pressing. This visual association can help you remember its meaning of squeezing or pressing.