Definitions

zhì (verb) to control; to regulate
zhì (noun) system
zhì (verb) to manufacture; to make

Etymology

Depicts cutting down a tree () with a knife (). Based on the original meaning "break". The meaning later shifted to "control".

Semantic: Phonetic:

About

The character "制" structurally combines "未" and "刂" (knife), reflecting its early etymological association with cutting or shaping, which led to meanings such as regulating or controlling. Over centuries, its semantic range expanded from concrete actions to abstract concepts like establishing systems, laws, or methods. The traditional form "製" incorporates "制" as a phonetic element alongside "衣" (clothing), specifying the act of manufacturing, particularly garments, while "制" continued to denote broader regulatory functions. This differentiation allowed "制" to encompass meanings related to institutional control and design, whereas "製" became specialized for production, though both characters evolved from a common root centered on imposition and creation.

Example Sentences Hide

作了一个蛋糕。

Wǒ zhìzuò le yīgè dàngāo.

I made a cake.

学校有严格的度。

Xuéxiào yǒu yángé de zhìdù.

The school has strict rules.

法律限汽车的速度。

Fǎlǜ xiànzhì qìchē de sùdù.

The law limits the speed of cars.

他控不住自己的情绪。

Tā kòngzhì bù zhù zìjǐ de qíngxù.

He cannot control his emotions.

这家工厂造电子产品。

Zhè jiā gōngchǎng zhìzào diànzǐ chǎnpǐn.

This factory manufactures electronic products.

政府定了一项新政策。

Zhèngfǔ zhìdìng le yī xiàng xīn zhèngcè.

The government formulated a new policy.

医生给他开了抑疼痛的药。

Yīshēng gěi tā kāi le yìzhì téngtòng de yào.

The doctor prescribed him medicine to suppress the pain.

经济因素约了公司的发展。

Jīngjì yīnsù zhìyuē le gōngsī de fāzhǎn.

Economic factors restricted the company's development.