Definitions

zhā (verb) to prick; to pierce; to stick (needle etc) into
zhá (adjective,verb) penetrating (as of cold); to struggle
(verb) to tie; to bind
zhā (noun) jug

Etymology

A hand  tying a bundle with string 

About

The character 扎, whose structure combines the hand radical (扌) with the phonetic component 乚, has maintained a consistent form throughout its history, with no distinction between traditional and simplified versions. Its core etymology relates to actions performed with the hand, originally conveying the sense of piercing or thrusting, an idea reinforced by one interpretation of its phonetic component as depicting a bent needle. From this foundational notion of penetration, its meanings expanded in practical directions, encompassing the act of tying or binding something securely, as if by piercing and fastening it, and further extending to signify the idea of stationing or setting down roots, as in establishing a military outpost. This semantic range, moving from a physical piercing action to more abstract concepts of securing and settling, illustrates a logical progression in the character's application over time.

Example Sentences Hide

他工作实实。

Tā gōngzuò zhāzhāshíshí.

He works solidly and steadily.

这根针得很深。

Zhè gēn zhēn zhā de hěn shēn.

This needle is stuck in very deep.

她把手进了口袋。

Tā bǎ shǒu zhā jìnle kǒudài.

She thrust her hands into her pockets.

登山队在河边营。

Dēngshān duì zài hé biān zhā yíng.

The mountaineering team set up camp by the river.

这种植物在沙漠根很深。

Zhè zhǒng zhíwù zài shāmò zhāgēn hěn shēn.

This type of plant takes very deep root in the desert.

新政策要根于社会实践。

Xīn zhèngcè yào zhāgēn yú shèhuì shíjiàn.

New policies must be rooted in social practice.

他被对手的言论中了痛处。

Tā bèi duìshǒu de yánlùn zhā zhòngle tòngchù.

He was hit where it hurts by his opponent's remarks.

复杂的情感像一根刺在他心里。

Fùzá de qínggǎn xiàng yī gēn cì zhā zài tā xīnlǐ.

Complicated emotions were like a thorn stuck in his heart.