Definitions

kuī to peep; to pry into
kuī variant of 窺|窥[kuī]

Etymology

Phonosemantic compound. represents the meaning and represents the sound. Simplified form of .

Semantic: Phonetic:

About

The character "窥", meaning to peep or spy, derives from the concept of observing through a small opening, as seen in its composition with the "穴" radical representing a hole or cavity. Its traditional form "窺" incorporates the component "規", which historically served a phonetic role while also implying measured or careful examination, thus enriching the character's association with vigilant looking. Over time, the meaning shifted from the literal act of gazing through a physical gap to broader connotations of covert observation or prying into hidden matters. The simplified form "窥" replaces "規" with "见", meaning to see, which both streamlines the character and reinforces its fundamental connection to visual perception.

Etymology Hide

Seal etymology image
Seal Shuowen (~100 AD)
Traditional Modern
Simplified Modern

Example Sentences Hide

视着窗外。

Tā kuīshì zhe chuāng wài.

He is peeking out the window.

小猫在视小鸟。

Xiǎo māo zài kuīshì xiǎo niǎo.

The kitten is peeking at the little bird.

不要探别人的隐私。

Bù yào kuītàn biérén de yǐnsī.

Do not pry into others' privacy.

她透过窗帘视外面。

Tā tòu guò chuānglián kuīshì wàimiàn.

She peeks outside through the curtains.

见真相需要耐心。

Kuījiàn zhēnxiàng xūyào nàixīn.

Catching a glimpse of the truth requires patience.

如果你伺机会,就能成功。

Rúguǒ nǐ kuīsì jīhuì, jiù néng chénggōng.

If you watch for opportunities, you can succeed.

科学家通过显微镜视微观世界。

Kēxuéjiā tōngguò xiǎnwēijìng kuīshì wēiguān shìjiè.

Scientists use microscopes to observe the microscopic world.

探宇宙的奥秘是人类永恒的追求。

Kuītàn yǔzhòu de àomì shì rénlèi yǒnghéng de zhuīqiú.

Probing the mysteries of the universe is humanity's eternal pursuit.