Definitions

cān (verb) to participate; to join; to attend
cān (verb) to counsel; to advise
shēn (noun) ginseng

Etymology

Simplified form of . Depicts three () stars () shining (). Originally represented the Three Stars constellation () in Chinese astronomy. The more common meaning "take part in" is a phonetic loan.

Phonetic:

About

The character "参", historically written in the traditional form as "參", etymologically stems from the concept of three, originally denoting a trio of stars in early astronomical contexts. Its structure in the traditional version incorporates components suggesting multiplicity, including a top element with triple accents and a lower part with flowing strokes, which together reinforce the idea of plurality. Over centuries, the character's semantic scope expanded beyond celestial references to encompass verbs such as to participate, to consult, and to refer, while also acquiring the meaning of ginseng, a plant whose root often divides into three sections. The simplified form "参" altered these structural components by condensing the upper part and integrating the lower strokes, yet it continues to carry the same range of meanings derived from its historical evolution.

Etymology Hide

Seal etymology image
Seal Shuowen (~100 AD)
Traditional Modern
Simplified Modern

Example Sentences Hide

加足球赛。

Wǒ cānjiā zúqiúsài.

I participate in a football match.

这本书考价值高。

Zhè běn shū cānkǎo jiàzhí gāo.

This book has high reference value.

考以下说明。

Qǐng cānkǎo yǐxià shuōmíng.

Please refer to the following instructions.

数设置很重要。

Cānshù shèzhì hěn zhòngyào.

Parameter settings are very important.

是一种珍贵药材。

Rénshēn shì yī zhǒng zhēnguì yàocái.

Ginseng is a precious medicinal herb.

我们观博物馆。

Wǒmen cānguān bówùguǎn.

We visit the museum.

他积极与社区活动。

Tā jījí cānyù shèqū huódòng.

He actively participates in community activities.

这项研究考了多项数。

Zhè xiàng yánjiū cānkǎo le duō xiàng cānshù.

This research referred to multiple parameters.