About
As a phono-semantic compound, 新 (xīn) combines the semantic radical 斤 (jīn), meaning an axe, on the right with the phonetic component 亲 (qīn), which historically relates to hazel wood. The axe radical indicates the original sense of chopping wood. From this act of cutting fresh material, the meaning evolved from the physical action to the abstract concept of newness, freshness, or recentness.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
这是我的新书。
我买了新衣服。
她认识了新朋友。
新闻很有趣。
新老师教我们数学。
新技术发展很快。
我们需要学习新知识。
适应新环境需要时间。