Definitions
(noun)
list; form; bill
(adjective)
single; simple
(adverb)
alone; only
(adjective,noun)
odd (number); odd number
Etymology
Simplified form of 單. Pictograph of a hunting tool or weapon constructed from rocks tied to a tree branch. The current meaning is a phonetic loan.
About
The traditional character "單" structurally reflects an early association with hunting or defensive implements, which informed its initial meanings related to these objects. Over time, its semantic focus shifted to denote "single" or "alone", and it subsequently developed additional senses such as "weak" or "unlined", as in clothing. The character also functions in compounds like "菜单" to indicate a list or bill. The simplified form "单" retains the core graphical elements of the traditional character in a reduced composition.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
这是一个简单的任务。
他单独去了公园。
请给我看看菜单。
我的单位在市中心。
她现在是单身状态。
这个单子需要你签字。
商品的单价已经确定。
虽然这个任务看起来简单，但单独完成并不容易。