Definitions
(noun)
matter; affair
(noun)
work; task
(noun)
thing; item
Etymology
The characters 史 (history), 吏 (government official), 使 (cause; use; instruct), and 事 (matter; work; affair) are all etymologically related and all derive from the same ancient character, depicting a hand (又) holding a container for writing utensils. 事 and 史 were originally written the same, but later an extra mark was added to distinguish them.
About
The character "事" originated from notions of service and management, with its contemporary structure featuring elements such as "一", "口", and "⺕" that collectively suggest coordinated activity. Its early meaning centered on the execution of duties or servitude, but over centuries it broadened to refer to events, incidents, and affairs of all kinds, thereby losing its specific verbal force in favor of a more nominal sense.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
这件事很容易做。
我有一个好消息要告诉你。
妈妈在厨房里忙事情。
他喜欢听有趣的故事。
今天的会议讨论了三件重要的事。
那件事的发生完全是个意外。
无论遇到什么事，都要保持冷静。
他对这件事的处理方式令人十分钦佩。