About
The character for iron, historically represented by the traditional form 鐵 which incorporates the metal radical 金 alongside a phonetic element, saw its structure modified in the simplified version 铁 where the right component was exchanged for 失, reflecting contemporary pronunciation. Its primary meaning as a hard, malleable metal broadened over centuries to encompass metaphorical uses denoting firmness or certainty, as in expressions referring to steadfast determination or irrefutable proof. This semantic extension occurred while the written form underwent stylistic changes, yet the character's fundamental link to the properties of iron remained consistent throughout its development.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
这扇铁门很重。
这条铁路通向北方。
工人们正在铺设新的铁轨。
他有一个铁制的文具盒。
他的意志像钢铁一样坚强。
在铁器时代，人类学会了冶铁。
这份合同是双方合作的铁证。
铁元素是人体必需的微量元素之一。