Definitions
(verb)
to weigh; to name; to call; to praise; to say; to state
(adjective)
fitting; suitable; balanced
(noun)
steelyard (weighing scale)
About
The traditional character "稱" integrates the component "禾", denoting grain, with "爯", associated with lifting or weighing, directly pointing to its original sense of measuring grain by weight. This concrete act of measurement naturally extended to more abstract meanings of assessment and evaluation, which in turn gave rise to the verb senses of designating or calling by a name. From the idea of judging worth, the character also acquired the meaning of praising or commending. The simplified form "称" maintains the "禾" component but substitutes "爯" with "尔", primarily serving a phonetic role while the character's semantic range continues to revolve around concepts of measurement and nomination.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
我称他为朋友。
她称赞我聪明。
请称一下重量。
他声称自己无罪。
这幅画很对称。
我对工作很称心。
他获得了冠军称号。
这种植物俗称太阳花。