Definitions

chǎng (adjective) spacious; open wide
chǎng (verb) to open up; to disclose

Etymology

Phonosemantic compound. represents the meaning and represents the sound.

Semantic: Phonetic:

About

The character "敞" combines the phonetic element "尚" with the radical "攵", which conveys a sense of action, together indicating the act of opening or making spacious. Its early usage referred primarily to physical environments such as high halls or unobstructed areas, emphasizing a literal sense of exposure and breadth. Over time, while the core notion of openness persisted, the meaning expanded to encompass metaphorical dimensions like candidness or unrestricted access, allowing it to describe both concrete and abstract forms of clearance. The structure has remained consistent throughout its history, with the components maintaining their positions and continuing to reflect the character's fundamental association with the concept of removing barriers.

Etymology Hide

Seal etymology image
Seal Shuowen (~100 AD)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Eastern Han dynasty (25-220 AD)
Traditional Modern
Simplified Modern

Example Sentences Hide

这个房间很宽

Zhège fángjiān hěn kuānchǎng.

This room is very spacious.

开心扉说话。

Tā chǎngkāi xīnfēi shuōhuà.

He speaks with an open heart.

开窗户让空气流通。

Chǎngkāi chuānghù ràng kōngqì liútōng.

Open the window to let air circulate.

的客厅让人舒适。

Kuānchǎng de kètīng ràng rén shūshì.

The spacious living room makes people comfortable.

他把问题开了谈。

Tā bǎ wèntí chǎngkāile tán.

He discussed the issue openly.

在宽的院子里孩子们玩耍。

Zài kuānchǎng de yuànzi lǐ háizimen wánshuǎ.

Children play in the spacious yard.

亮的工作环境能提高效率。

Chǎngliàng de gōngzuò huánjìng néng tígāo xiàolǜ.

A bright and open work environment can improve efficiency.

他毫不犹豫地开了所有秘密。

Tā háobù yóuyù de chǎngkāile suǒyǒu mìmì.

He opened up all secrets without hesitation.