Definitions
(adjective)
simple; uncomplicated
(noun)
letter
(verb)
to choose; to select
About
The character 简, whose traditional form is 簡, etymologically originates from its components of ⺮ (bamboo) and 間 (space between), initially referring specifically to narrow bamboo slips used for writing in ancient China. This concrete object, central to recording and transmitting texts, naturally gave rise to associated meanings pertaining to documents, letters, and books themselves. Over time, the conceptual connection between the physical medium and the nature of its content evolved, with the character acquiring abstract connotations of simplicity and brevity, likely influenced by the practical constraints and unadorned nature of writing on bamboo. Thus, its semantic range shifted from denoting a particular writing material to encompassing ideas of something being uncomplicated, concise, or making something simpler, while still retaining its historical link to documents and writings in certain compound words.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
这本书很简单。
他的回答很简短。
请简单介绍一下。
她写了一份简历。
这个设计简洁大方。
我们需要简化流程。
简要说明你的观点。
简化字便于学习汉字。