Definitions

zhēn (verb) to scout; to spy; to detect

Etymology phono-semantic

person

Semantic: Phonetic:

About

The character "侦", historically represented by its traditional form "偵", combines the human radical "人" with the component "貞", which carries connotations of divination and earnest inquiry, indicating an initial sense of probing or seeking knowledge through questioning. This composition points to an earlier usage centered on the act of investigation or information gathering, often through attentive observation. Over time, its application narrowed to specialize in denoting secretive or systematic examination, such as in espionage or detective work, emphasizing the covert acquisition of information. The modern simplified form "侦" maintains the human radical while incorporating a streamlined version of the original phonetic element, preserving the essential notion of detection that defines the character's function today.

Etymology Hide

Seal etymology image
Seal Shuowen (~100 AD)
Traditional Modern
Simplified Modern

Example Sentences Hide

探已经出发了。

Tàn zhēn yǐ jīng chū fā le。

The detective has already set off.

警方正在查这个案件。

Jǐng fāng zhèng zài zhēn chá zhè ge àn jiàn。

The police are investigating this case.

他使用了高科技听设备。

Tā shǐ yòng le gāo kē jì zhēn tīng shè bèi。

He used high-tech eavesdropping equipment.

卫星负责察敌方动向。

Wèi xīng fù zé zhēn chá dí fāng dòng xiàng。

The satellite is responsible for reconnaissance of enemy movements.

这个组织专门进行讯工作。

Zhè ge zǔ zhī zhuān mén jìn xíng zhēn xùn gōng zuò。

This organization specializes in interrogation work.

犯罪现场被仔细地勘过了。

Fàn zuì xiàn chǎng bèi zǐ xì de zhēn kān guò le。

The crime scene has been carefully surveyed.

他们试图破这个复杂的网络。

Tā men shì tú zhēn pò zhè ge fù zá de wǎng luò。

They tried to crack this complex network.

现代防技术能预防很多犯罪。

Xiàn dài zhēn fáng jì shù néng yù fáng hěn duō fàn zuì。

Modern detection and prevention technology can prevent many crimes.