About
胁 is the simplified version of the traditional character 脅. It is a phono-semantic compound: the left side is the flesh radical ⺼ (written as 月, meaning 'meat'), indicating that the character relates to a body part. In the traditional form, the right side was 劦 (xié), serving as the phonetic component. When characters were simplified, 劦 was replaced with 办 (bàn), which now provides the sound. Originally, 胁/脅 denoted the lateral region of the upper body, the sides of the chest, the flanks, and the ribcage. Because this area is especially vulnerable, seizing someone by the flanks could force compliance. This physical act of pressure gave rise to the extended meanings 'to coerce' or 'to intimidate,' capturing the idea of compelling someone against their will through threats or force.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
威胁他人是违法的行为。
不要胁迫别人做不愿意的事。
他是在胁从下参与犯罪的。
他因胁持人质被警方逮捕。
那个证人在受到威胁后保持了沉默。
犯罪分子以曝光隐私相胁逼。
他用胁肩谄笑的方式讨好上司。
这种胁肋部的疼痛需要详细检查。
Report an issue
Flag incorrect definitions, examples, etymology, etc.