Definitions

jiā (adjective) excellent; fine; praiseworthy
jiā (verb) to praise; to commend

Etymology

Phonosemantic compound. represents the meaning and represents the sound.

Semantic: Phonetic:

About

The character "嘉" is structurally composed of the semantic component "壴", which denotes a drum used in ceremonial settings, and the phonetic component "加", which also contributes a sense of addition or enhancement. This formation reflects an original meaning tied to ritual praise and excellence, etymologically conveying ideas of goodness and auspiciousness. Over time, its application broadened from describing virtuous conduct and favorable events to being employed in numerous compound words, such as "嘉奖" for awards and "嘉宾" for honored guests, while maintaining its core positive connotations associated with commendation and quality.

Etymology Hide

Bronze etymology image
Bronze Early Spring and Autumn (~700 BC)
Bronze etymology image
Bronze Early Spring and Autumn (~700 BC)
Bronze etymology image
Bronze Late Spring and Autumn (~500 BC)
Bronze etymology image
Bronze Late Spring and Autumn (~500 BC)
Bronze etymology image
Bronze Late Spring and Autumn (~500 BC)
Bronze etymology image
Bronze Late Warring States (~250 BC)
Seal etymology image
Seal Chu (Warring States: 475-221 BC)
Seal etymology image
Seal Shuowen (~100 AD)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Western Han dynasty (202 BC-9 AD)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Eastern Han dynasty (25-220 AD)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Eastern Han dynasty (25-220 AD)
Traditional Modern
Simplified Modern

Example Sentences Hide

这个周末有年华活动。

Zhège zhōumò yǒu jiāniánhuá huódòng.

There is a carnival activity this weekend.

学校奖了优秀的学生。

Xuéxiào jiājiǎngle yōuxiù de xuéshēng.

The school commended the outstanding students.

宾们陆续走进了会场。

Jiābīnmen lùxù zǒu jìnle huìchǎng.

The guests entered the venue one after another.

他的善举得到了众人的许。

Tā de shàn jǔ dédàole zhòngrén de jiāxǔ.

His good deed received praise from everyone.

这份贺礼承载着美好的愿。

Zhè fèn hèlǐ chéngzàizhe měihǎo de jiā yuàn.

This congratulatory gift carries beautiful and auspicious wishes.

评审团对他的设计给予了评。

Pǐnshěntuán duì tā de shèjì jǐyǔle jiā píng.

The judging panel gave favorable comments on his design.

这座建筑是古代艺术的构。

Zhè zuò jiànzhù shì gǔdài yìshù de jiā gòu.

This building is a superb example of ancient art.

言懿行的品格令人敬仰。

Tā jiā yán yì xíng de pǐngé lìng rén jìngyǎng.

Her virtuous words and admirable conduct command respect.