Learn a Chinese Character - 禁

1. Character Basics

Radical: 示/礻 (shì radical)

Stroke Count: 13

Stroke Order:

2. Pronunciation

Pinyin: jìn (fourth tone) / jīn (first tone)

3. Meaning

jìn: To prohibit, to forbid, to ban, to restrict

jīn: To endure, to bear, to be able to stand

4. Common Words

• 禁止 (jìn zhǐ) - to prohibit, to forbid
• 禁令 (jìn lìng) - ban, prohibition order
• 禁区 (jìn qū) - restricted area, forbidden zone
• 情不自禁 (qíng bù zì jīn) - unable to contain one's emotions, can't help doing something
• 禁烟 (jìn yān) - no smoking, smoking ban
• 禁得住 (jīn de zhù) - to be able to endure, to stand up to

5. Grammar & Usage

Part of Speech: Can be used as a verb, noun, or adjective

Pronunciation Notes:

• 读"jìn"时，多表示"禁止、限制"的意思
• 读"jīn"时，多表示"经受、忍耐"的意思

Usage Patterns:

• 禁止 + Verb: 禁止吸烟 (jìn zhǐ xī yān) - No smoking
• 情不自禁 + Verb: 情不自禁地笑了 (qíng bù zì jīn de xiào le) - Couldn't help laughing
• 禁 + 不住 + Verb: 禁不住诱惑 (jīn bu zhù yòu huò) - Can't resist temptation

Idioms:

• 令行禁止 (lìng xíng jìn zhǐ) - Orders are carried out and prohibitions are observed (strict discipline)
• 入境问禁 (rù jìng wèn jìn) - Inquire about local prohibitions when entering a new place

6. Cultural Background

Traditional Concepts: In traditional Chinese culture, there were many taboos and prohibitions related to religion, ethics, and social order, which were often enforced through rituals and social norms.

Legal System: The concept of prohibition has been an important part of Chinese legal systems throughout history, from ancient laws to modern regulations.

Social Etiquette: Many social norms in Chinese culture involve implicit prohibitions on certain behaviors considered impolite or inappropriate.

Literary Expression: The word "禁" is often used in literature to describe moral constraints, self-discipline, or the struggle between desire and restraint.

7. Example Sentence

8. Memory Tips

Character Breakdown: "禁" is composed of "示" (shì, to show, divine) at the bottom and "林" (lín, forest) at the top with a horizontal stroke above it.

Visual Association: The character can be visualized as a place (示) where trees (林) are protected or restricted. This connects to the meaning of prohibition or restriction.

Mnemonic Device: Think of a "禁止入内" (No Entry) sign in a forest - the combination of trees (林) and a sign (示) represents restriction or prohibition.

Pronunciation Help: For "jìn", think of the similar-sounding word "近" (jìn), but with a different meaning. For "jīn", remember that it's used in words related to endurance or self-control.