About
The character "副" combines the phonetic element "畐" with the knife radical "刂", a structure that initially denoted the act of cutting or splitting. This original sense of division provided a conceptual basis for the term's later meanings, shifting from physical separation to describe something secondary or auxiliary, such as a deputy role that derives from a primary authority. Over time, its semantic scope widened to include adjectival uses for subordinate positions and nominal functions as a measure word for paired or matched items, extending the idea of duality inherent in its etymological roots. Thus, while its form has remained stable, the character's applications have broadened from concrete action to abstract classification, mirroring changes in linguistic and social contexts.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
他是我们的副班长。
这种药有副作用。
请给我一份副本。
他担任副经理一职。
农业有很多副产品。
这幅画是副本，不是原作。
副总统将出席这次会议。
除了正职，他还有一份副业。