Definitions

(verb) to anticipate; to look forward to
(verb) to plan; to scheme
(verb) to stand on tiptoe

Etymology

Depicts a person () standing on their feet ().

About

The character "企" structurally integrates the component for "person" (人) with that for "foot" (止), creating an ideograph that visually suggests a figure poised on tiptoe. This composition directly informed its original semantic value of physically elevating oneself, often to peer into the distance, which subsequently generated an abstract sense of anticipation or eager expectation. The conceptual shift from literal elevation to metaphorical aspiration allowed the character to later symbolize ventures characterized by forward-looking ambition, ultimately leading to its modern application in terms such as "企业" (enterprise), where it encapsulates the idea of an undertaking oriented toward future goals and endeavors.

Etymology Hide

Oracle etymology image
Oracle (~1250-1000 BC)
Bronze etymology image
Bronze Late Shang dynasty (~1100 BC)
Seal etymology image
Seal Shuowen (~100 AD)
Seal etymology image
Seal Shuowen (~100 AD)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Eastern Han dynasty (25-220 AD)
Traditional Modern
Simplified Modern

Example Sentences Hide

我喜欢看鹅。

Wǒ xǐhuān kàn qǐ'é.

I like to watch penguins.

这家业很成功。

Zhè jiā qǐyè hěn chénggōng.

This enterprise is very successful.

图逃跑。

Tā qǐtú táopǎo.

He attempted to escape.

我们盼明天。

Wǒmen qǐpàn míngtiān.

We look forward to tomorrow.

划会议开始了。

Qǐhuà huìyì kāishǐ le.

The planning meeting has started.

求更多帮助。

Tā qǐqiú gèng duō bāngzhù.

He seeks more help.

市场稳回升。

Shìchǎng qǐwěn huíshēng.

The market stabilized and recovered.

这个目标难以及。

Zhège mùbiāo nányǐ qǐjí.

This goal is difficult to attain.