Definitions

suàn (verb) to calculate; to compute
suàn (verb) to regard as; to consider

Etymology

Depicts a tool () made from bamboo (⺮) for performing calculations, such as an abacus.

About

The character "算" derives its form from the historical use of bamboo counting rods in early Chinese mathematics, with its structure combining the bamboo radical "竹" atop the component "具" for tool, literally representing a bamboo calculating instrument. Initially referring specifically to arithmetic performed with physical rods, its meaning gradually extended to encompass broader notions of computation, including estimating, planning, and considering, thus reflecting a shift from concrete counting practices to more abstract numerical and strategic thinking.

Etymology Hide

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

Example Sentences Hide

这道题怎么

Zhè dào tí zěnme suàn?

How do you calculate this problem?

你打去哪里?

Nǐ dǎsuàn qù nǎlǐ?

Where do you plan to go?

是个好人。

Tā suànshì gè hǎo rén.

He can be considered a good person.

请计总金额。

Qǐng jìsuàn zǒng jīn'é.

Please calculate the total amount.

我打明天去北京。

Wǒ dǎsuàn míngtiān qù Běijīng.

I plan to go to Beijing tomorrow.

这笔账不清了。

Zhè bǐ zhàng suàn bù qīng le.

This account is too messy to settle.

根据计,结果正确。

Gēnjù jìsuàn, jiéguǒ zhèngquè.

According to the calculation, the result is correct.

即便上所有因素,我们也无法预测。

Jíbiàn suàn shàng suǒyǒu yīnsù, wǒmen yě wúfǎ yùcè.

Even after taking all factors into account, we still cannot predict.