About
The character "调", in its traditional form "調", is constructed from the semantic component "言" (speech, words) and the phonetic component "周" (circumference, cycle), a combination which originally suggested the idea of bringing things into accord through verbal means or measured adjustment. Its early meanings centered on notions of harmony and proper proportion, leading to its application in music to denote the tuning of instruments and, by extension, musical modes or melodies. From this foundational sense of achieving correct pitch and balance, the character's semantic field broadened considerably to encompass a wide range of adjustments and blends, such as mixing flavors, regulating temperature, or transferring personnel, while still retaining its core concept of modifying elements to create a suitable or harmonious condition.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
空调的温度太低了。
我们需要调整一下计划。
他唱歌总是跑调。
公司正在调查这件事。
老师强调了考试的重要性。
这家餐厅的格调很高雅。
两国同意通过谈判来调停争端。
他巧妙地调用了多种修辞手法。