Chinese Character: 兼
1. Character Basics
Radical: 丷/bā radical (two dots)
Stroke Count: 10
Stroke Order:
2. Pronunciation
Pinyin: jiān
Pronunciation Note: Pronounced with a high and level tone (first tone).
3. Meaning
hold two or more jobs, concurrently, simultaneously, combine, both, double
4. Common Words
- 兼职 (jiānzhí) - part-time job, concurrent post - A job held in addition to a main job
- 兼顾 (jiāngù) - give consideration to both, take into account - To consider multiple things simultaneously
- 兼容 (jiānróng) - compatible, compatible with - Capable of working together without conflict
- 兼任 (jiānrèn) - hold a concurrent post, double as - To hold multiple positions at the same time
- 兼备 (jiānbèi) - have both, possess both - To have both qualities or characteristics
- 兼并 (jiānbìng) - merge, annex - To combine or take over another company or entity
5. Grammar & Usage
1. As a verb: "兼" is used as a verb meaning to hold two or more positions or jobs.
2. As an adjective: It can function as an adjective meaning both or double, as in "兼容" (compatible).
3. In compounds: It is often found in compound words that describe the concept of combining or doing multiple things.
4. In formal contexts: It is commonly used in business, academic, and official contexts to describe concurrent responsibilities.
6. Cultural Background
The character "兼" has significant cultural implications in Chinese society. Traditionally, the ability to "兼" (do multiple things or hold multiple roles) has been valued as a sign of competence and versatility. In modern times, the concept of "兼职" (part-time work) has become increasingly common as people seek to diversify their skills and income. The character also appears in philosophical contexts, where the idea of balancing or combining different aspects of life or knowledge is emphasized.
7. Example Sentence
他在大学兼职当英语老师。
Pinyin: Tā zài dàxué jiānzhí dāng yīngyǔ lǎoshī.
Translation: He works part-time as an English teacher at the university.
8. Memory Tips
The character "兼" is composed of the radical "丷" (two dots) and the components "隹" (bird) and "彐" (hand). You can remember it by thinking of a hand (彐) holding two birds (隹), symbolizing the idea of holding or managing multiple things at once. The character has 10 strokes, so practice writing it carefully to master the stroke order.