About
The character 副 is a phono-semantic compound. Its right side features the knife radical 刂, indicating the original meaning of splitting or dividing with a blade. The left component 畐 serves as the phonetic element. Historically, the sense evolved from this act of cleaving to represent something secondary or subordinate, like a deputy or vice position. It is also used as a measure word for paired items such as gloves or for sets of expressions like a smile.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
他是我们的副班长。
这种药有副作用。
请给我一份副本。
他担任副经理一职。
农业有很多副产品。
这幅画是副本，不是原作。
副总统将出席这次会议。
除了正职，他还有一份副业。