About
The character "堪" is composed of the earth radical (土) on the left and the phonetic component "甚" on the right, a structure that has remained consistent in its traditional form. Its etymology connects to the idea of earth or ground, with an early meaning associated with bearing weight or withstanding pressure, as implied by the foundational earth component. Over time, this concrete notion of physical endurance or capacity expanded into more abstract senses, coming to denote the ability to bear or endure circumstances, and subsequently developing the additional, prevalent meaning of being worthy or fit for a task or honor. Thus, its semantic path moved from a literal sense of load-bearing ground to encompassing both resilience and suitability.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
这项任务不堪重负。
他的行为堪称模范。
此地风景堪称为一绝。
疲惫不堪的他倒头就睡。
这种混乱局面不堪设想。
其设计之精妙，堪与自然造物媲美。
这段历史不堪回首，却必须铭记。
在诸多挑战面前，他展现出了堪当大任的素质。