About
The character '补' finds its origin in the traditional form '補', which is etymologically composed of the clothing radical '衤' alongside the component '甫', a structure that directly points to its initial meaning of repairing or patching garments. This concrete sense of mending fabric gradually extended to a more abstract conceptual range, encompassing the act of making up for any deficiency or providing what is lacking, whether in physical objects, systems, or even abstract qualities. Over time, this semantic broadening allowed the character to be employed in diverse fields such as traditional medicine, where it conveys the idea of strengthening or nourishing the body, and in academic contexts, where it refers to supplementary learning or correction. The modern form '补' maintains the clothing radical but incorporates a simplified right-hand element, thereby retaining a visual and conceptual link to its historical roots in the idea of restoration and addition.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
我今天要补课。
我需要补办护照。
医生建议我补钙。
因为生病，他需要补考。
这个补丁打得很好。
公司会补偿你的损失。
为了补充维生素，他多吃水果。
经过补充调查，证据更加充分。