Definitions
(verb)
to change into; to transform
(particle)
-ization; -ize (suffix indicating transformation)
About
The character "化", which remains identical in both its traditional and modern standardized forms, derives from a compositional idea of transformation through human action. Its structure is composed of two components: a person (亻) positioned beside another element often interpreted as a person turned upside down or altered, collectively conveying the concept of a change in state or form. Etymologically, it originally conveyed the concrete sense of change or transformation, a meaning that remains its core function as a verb. Over time, this fundamental notion of alteration expanded into more abstract and derived applications, giving rise to meanings such as to convert, to influence, to civilize, and to educate, which in turn led to its use in words pertaining to culture and chemical change. This semantic extension from physical metamorphosis to intellectual and societal influence demonstrates how its conceptual range broadened while retaining its essential thematic link to the process of change.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
环境变化很快。
中国文化很有意思。
化学是一门科学。
这座城市正在现代化。
雪在阳光下融化了。
我们需要简化工作流程。
这个系统能净化空气。
全球化带来了机遇与挑战。