About
The character "指" is structured with the hand radical (扌) on the left, signaling its association with manual actions, and the component "旨" on the right, which historically functioned as a phonetic indicator while contributing a sense of direction or purpose. Originally referring to the physical finger, its meaning extended to the act of pointing with that finger, and subsequently expanded to encompass more abstract notions such as indicating, directing, or referring to something. This semantic shift from concrete object to action and then to metaphorical reference is mirrored in the character's consistent composition, where the hand radical anchors it to physical gesture while "旨" supports its sound and nuanced meanings.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
他的手指很长。
请按照指示操作。
老师指导我们学习。
他指出了我的错误。
会议指定在明天举行。
他不应该指责别人。
将军指挥士兵们战斗。
公司完成了年度经济指标。