Definitions
(particle)
by means of; to use; according to
(particle)
in order to; because of
(particle)
at; from (time or place)
Etymology
Depicts a person (人) carrying something.
About
The character "以" originated from an early ideograph conveying the concept of employing an object, which established its core meaning related to use or means. In its contemporary structure, it is an indivisible character formed by four strokes without separable components in modern analysis. Initially denoting instrumental action, its semantic functions broadened to serve as a preposition indicating cause, manner, or standard, and it further grammaticalized into a classical conjunction, integral to compounds like "以爲" where it contributes to expressions of consideration or assumption.
Example Sentences Hide
他以跑步健身。
她以中文写信。
我们以唱歌为乐。
请以认真态度学习。
他们以和平方式解决冲突。
公司以客户为中心。
我们必须以法律为准绳。
他以毕生精力致力于科研。