Definitions
(verb)
to make an appointment; to agree
(noun)
treaty; agreement; contract
(adverb)
approximately; about
About
The character "约" derives from its traditional form "約", structured with the silk radical "糸" indicating connection and the component "勺" serving a phonetic role, originally representing the act of tying or binding with silk cords. From this concrete beginning, its semantic range broadened to include the notion of agreements or appointments, where the binding concept metaphorically applies to mutual obligations. Subsequent evolution saw it adopt meanings related to approximation, as in setting loose bounds around a number, and to economizing, reflecting a constraint on resources. This progression from physical restraint to abstract limitations marks the character's historical development within the language.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
我们约好明天见。
大约有五个人来了。
他约定时间见面。
节约用水很重要。
他们签了一份合约。
老师约见了学生家长。
我们必须约束自己的行为。
根据约定，双方都应遵守规则。