Definitions
(adverb)
suddenly; abruptly
(adverb)
at first
Etymology
Pictograph of a blade for cutting trees. Original form of 柞. The current meaning is a phonetic loan.
About
The character 乍 functions as a standalone ideographic component, without a clear separation into semantic and phonetic parts within its structure. Its core meaning conveys a sudden, abrupt, or unexpected action, often marking a rapid shift or fleeting moment. It also expresses the very first instance an event occurs, positioning it as a key adverbial modifier used to emphasize sudden onset, brief duration, or the initial stage of an action or sensation.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
我乍一看很惊讶。
他乍听到这件事很震惊。
天气乍变让人不适。
乍到新环境她有点紧张。
消息乍传大家都很惊讶。
他乍一见面就喜欢上了她。
乍听噩耗他晕倒了。
乍看简单的问题往往复杂。