Definitions

zhù (verb) to help; to assist

Etymology

Phonosemantic compound. represents the meaning and represents the sound.

Semantic: Phonetic:

About

The character "助" is etymologically a phono-semantic construct where the semantic component 力, representing strength or exertion, combines with the phonetic component 且, which initially guided its pronunciation, to convey the idea of providing aid through applied effort. Its fundamental meaning of to help or assist has remained central throughout its historical usage, with the character's form experiencing no major structural changes over time. While sound shifts have obscured the original phonetic relationship with 且, the conceptual link between force and assistance persists, and the character has seamlessly adapted to form numerous compound words that elaborate on nuances of support, from general help to specific auxiliary roles.

Etymology Hide

Seal etymology image
Seal Shuowen (~100 AD)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Qin dynasty (221-206 BC)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Western Han dynasty (202 BC-9 AD)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Western Han dynasty (202 BC-9 AD)
Seal etymology image
Seal Western Han dynasty (202 BC-9 AD)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Eastern Han dynasty (25-220 AD)
Traditional Modern
Simplified Modern

Example Sentences Hide

他经常帮我。

Tā jīngcháng bāngzhù wǒ.

He often helps me.

我们需要互

Wǒmen xūyào hùzhù.

We need to help each other.

她是一名理。

Tā shì yī míng zhùlǐ.

She is an assistant.

这个工具很有

Zhège gōngjù hěn yǒuzhù.

This tool is very helpful.

教正在批改作业。

Zhùjiào zhèngzài pīgǎi zuòyè.

The teaching assistant is grading homework.

他们的支持长了我们的信心。

Tāmen de zhīchí zhùzhǎngle wǒmen de xìnxīn.

Their support boosted our confidence.

在比赛中,观众们大声威。

Zài bǐsài zhōng, guānzhòngmen dàshēng zhùwēi.

During the match, the audience cheered loudly.

政府提供了经济援

Zhèngfǔ tígōngle jīngjì yuánzhù.

The government provided economic assistance.