Chinese Character: 临
1. Character Basics
Radical: 丨 (shù, vertical stroke radical)
Stroke Count: 9
Stroke Order:
2. Pronunciation
Pinyin: lín (Second tone)
3. Meaning
To approach; arrive; come; near; face; be about to; visit; encounter; meet; confront;临摹 (copy a model);临帖 (copy from a calligraphy model)
4. Common Words
- 临近 (línjìn) - be close to; approach
- 临时 (línshí) - temporary; provisional
- 面临 (miànlín) - face; confront
- 光临 (guānglín) - honor with a visit (polite expression)
- 临场 (línchǎng) - on the spot; in the presence of an audience
- 来临 (láilín) - come; arrive
- 临幸 (línxìng) - imperial visit
- 临摹 (línmó) - copy a model (calligraphy or painting)
5. Grammar & Usage
"临" is primarily used as a verb meaning "to approach" or "to be about to". It can also mean "to face" or "to visit".
In compound words, it often conveys the meaning of something that is happening soon or something that is present in a certain situation.
When used with the suffix "时" (shí), it forms "临时" (temporary), which is commonly used in daily conversation.
6. Cultural Background
The character "临" has important cultural significance, particularly in Chinese calligraphy and art. The term "临摹" (línmó) refers to the practice of copying models of calligraphy or painting, which is a fundamental learning method in traditional Chinese art education.
In Chinese philosophy, "临危不乱" (remain calm in the face of danger) is a valued virtue, reflecting the character's connotation of facing challenges with composure.
Historically, the character was also used in official contexts, such as "临朝" (to be in power as a regent) and "临幸" (an imperial visit), demonstrating its connection to governance and authority.
7. Example Sentence
Chinese: 期末考试临近了，我需要更加努力学习。
Pinyin: Qīmò kǎoshì línjìn le, wǒ xūyào gèngjiā nǔlì xuéxí.
English: The final exam is approaching, I need to study harder.
8. Memory Tips
The character "临" consists of several components: the radical "丨" (shù, vertical stroke), and other parts that represent a person standing near water or a cliff.
You can remember it as "a person approaching something" or visualize someone standing at the edge of a cliff, which connects to the meaning of approaching or being near.
The stroke order is important: start with the vertical stroke on the left, then complete the other strokes in a counter-clockwise direction around it.