About
As a phono-semantic compound, 如 combines the semantic radical 女 (woman) on the left with the phonetic component 口 (mouth) on the right. Its original meaning conveyed a woman following instructions, implying obedience. This sense evolved into the abstract meaning of "to be like" or "to resemble", making it essential for similes and comparisons. It also developed into a common conjunction meaning "if" or "supposing" in conditional clauses.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
如果天气好，我们就出去玩。
我不知道如何回答这个问题。
我喜欢水果，例如苹果和香蕉。
这部电影不如那部好看。
这里的风景如此美丽。
正如我们所料，他成功了。
假如我有时间，我会帮助你。
她的笑容如阳光一般温暖。