About
The character 索, whose traditional form is identical to its modern standard one, originally depicted a large rope, a meaning clearly indicated by its primary component, the silk radical (糸), which is combined with elements in the upper part representing a twisting or braiding action. From this concrete noun for a coarse cord or cable, its meaning extended into the verbal domain, encompassing the actions associated with such an object: to follow along its length, to tighten it, or to use it for binding. This natural progression led to the abstract senses of "to search" or "to demand", as one might carefully follow a line of inquiry or press for something required, with the physical object receding as the metaphorical applications became primary and enduring in the language.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
我在搜索答案。
他索取了一些资料。
这本书有详细索引。
警察找到了重要线索。
他思索着人生的问题。
索性我们明天再去吧。
公司向保险公司索赔。
登山者乘坐索道上山。