Definitions

shī (verb) to implement; to carry out; to execute
shī (verb) to distribute; to bestow; to give
shī (verb) to apply (fertilizer, makeup etc)

Etymology

Phonosemantic compound. represents the meaning and represents the sound.

About

The character "施" structurally combines the component "方", implying direction or method, with "也", which functions phonetically while reinforcing ideas of extension, leading to an original sense of spreading or applying something outward. Its early meanings centered on acts like promulgating edicts or dispensing grace, which gradually broadened to encompass execution, implementation, and bestowal across various literary and administrative contexts. This semantic expansion allowed the character to adapt to both concrete and abstract uses, such as in terms denoting measures or charitable giving, with its consistent composition reflecting the enduring influence of its etymological roots on its developed meanings.

Etymology Hide

Seal etymology image
Seal Chu (Warring States: 475-221 BC)
Seal etymology image
Seal Shuowen (~100 AD)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Qin dynasty (221-206 BC)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Western Han dynasty (202 BC-9 AD)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Eastern Han dynasty (25-220 AD)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Eastern Han dynasty (25-220 AD)
Traditional Modern
Simplified Modern

Example Sentences Hide

农民在田里肥。

Nóngmín zài tián lǐ shīféi.

The farmer is fertilizing in the field.

政府实新政策。

Zhèngfǔ shíshī xīn zhèngcè.

The government implements new policies.

我们需要采取措

Wǒmen xūyào cǎiqǔ cuòshī.

We need to take measures.

工程师正在现场工。

Gōngchéngshī zhèngzài xiànchǎng shīgōng.

The engineer is working on site.

展才华获得成功。

Tā shīzhǎn cáihuá huòdé chénggōng.

He displayed his talent and achieved success.

公司对员工加了太大压力。

Gōngsī duì yuángōng shījiāle tài dà yālì.

The company exerted too much pressure on employees.

慈善机构经常向穷人舍食物。

Císhàn jīgòu jīngcháng xiàng qióngrén shīshě shíwù.

Charity organizations often give alms of food to the poor.

这项措的实需要全体员工的配合。

Zhè xiàng cuòshī de shíshī xūyào quántǐ yuángōng de pèihé.

The implementation of this measure requires the cooperation of all employees.