About
The character "拘" is a phono-semantic compound formed by the hand radical "扌" and the component "句", which initially suggested a curved or hooking action, thereby lending the sense of seizing or detaining with the hand. Its early meanings centered on physical arrest or restraint, as seen in classical texts where it denoted capturing or confining someone. Over centuries, the meaning extended beyond literal imprisonment to encompass various forms of limitation, including psychological or behavioral constraints, such as in the terms "拘束" for restraint or "拘泥" for rigid adherence to conventions. This evolution reflects a shift from concrete action to abstract concept, while the character's structure has remained unchanged, consistently mirroring its core idea of holding or restricting.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
不要拘束自己。
他被警察拘留了。
她拘谨地笑了笑。
别拘泥于旧观念。
他的拘捕令已经签发。
在正式场合，他显得很拘束。
法律对拘留时间有严格规定。
由于证据不足，警方无法拘捕嫌疑人。