About
The character 材 is structurally composed of the semantic radical 木, denoting wood, and the phonetic component 才. Its etymology traces back to meanings specifically associated with timber or processed wood suitable for building purposes. From this concrete origin, the term's application expanded to refer more generally to any raw material or substance utilized in fabrication. Subsequently, the meaning underwent a further abstraction, applying to the inherent capabilities or natural endowments of an individual, much like raw material that can be cultivated, with the phonetic element 才 also contributing conceptually due to its own semantic field concerning ability and talent.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
这种材料很结实。
这些木材质量很好。
新鲜的食材非常重要。
这本教材对学生很有帮助。
这些建材是从外地运来的。
建筑需要大量的钢材。
父母都希望子女早日成材。
这部小说的题材很新颖。