Definitions
(verb)
to tell; to inform; to announce
(verb)
to report; to file a complaint
Etymology
Pictograph of a tongue extending from an open mouth. Visually similar to 舌 (tongue).
About
The character "告" is structurally composed of "牛" meaning cow and "口" meaning mouth, a configuration that etymologically indicates a formal pronouncement, historically associated with ritual declarations involving cattle. Its earliest recorded meanings involved reporting or informing in an official or solemn context. Over time, its semantic field expanded to include related concepts such as accusing someone in a legal setting and issuing a warning. In contemporary use, the character primarily conveys the act of telling or notifying, serving as a key component in words like 告诉 (to tell) and 广告 (advertisement).
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
妈妈告诉我答案。
我们要告别朋友。
电视上有广告。
他被告知了消息。
公司发布了新广告。
政府警告市民小心。
他控告对方违约。
这本书告一段落了。