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The modern simplified character 监 (jiān) derives from the traditional 監. In its traditional structure, the semantic radical 皿 (a shallow vessel or plate) sits at the bottom, with 人 (person) and 臣 (looking) above, together depicting someone bending over a water-filled basin to catch their own reflection, an early mirror. This act of careful inspection gave rise to the concepts of supervising, monitoring, and keeping a close watch. From the idea of strict oversight, the meaning also extended to a place of constant surveillance: a prison or jail.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
这个监狱有高墙。
超市里有很多监控摄像头。
老师监督学生做作业。
父母是孩子的监护人。
医生监测病人的心跳。
考试时，老师必须监考。
他是公司的技术总监。
这部电影由著名导演监制。
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