About
The character "令" originates from an early ideographic composition that depicted a kneeling figure beneath a roof or canopy, symbolizing the reception or issuance of commands, with its structure combining the element for a gathering or shelter with that of a kneeling person. Initially conveying the sense of "to command" or "decree", its meaning gradually extended to encompass causative functions such as "to make" or "to cause", and it later developed respectful applications as an honorific prefix in terms of address. Over time, these shifts have allowed the character to maintain its fundamental meanings while also being employed in contexts ranging from seasonal designations and legal ordinances to various formal expressions.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
这个消息令人高兴。
他下令开始行动。
老师的命令必须遵守。
这种天气令我不想出门。
公司颁布了新法令。
他的行为令人失望。
政府下令禁止聚集，以防止疫情扩散。
这项政策令经济发展迅速，但也令环境污染加剧。