Definitions
Etymology
Pictograph of a tongue extending from an open mouth. Visually similar to 舌 (tongue).
About
The character 告 combines the upper component 牛 (cow or ox) and the lower component 口 (mouth or speech). This structure originally depicted the ritual of sacrificing a bovine while reciting prayers to spirits or ancestors. Since this ceremony involved solemn announcements, the meaning gradually shifted toward the secular act of telling, informing, or broadcasting to other people. In modern usage, it primarily refers to reporting, notifying, warning, or formally accusing in legal contexts, having moved entirely beyond its initial sacrificial and religious sense.
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。