About
The character "狱" in its modern simplified form, which originated from its more complex traditional counterpart "獄", has a history centered around conflict and confinement. Its traditional structure is etymologically composed of two elements: the "犭" or "quǎn" component, representing dogs or animals, and the character "言" (yán), meaning speech or words, positioned on either side of a central element; this graphic composition originally depicted a verbal dispute or lawsuit, with the animals symbolizing a fierce, adversarial argument. Over time, the meaning shifted from the act of contention itself to its consequence, specifically the place of detention for those adjudged guilty, leading to its primary modern definition as a prison or jail. The simplified form "狱" maintains the canine radical but streamlines the right side, preserving the core concept while altering the specific pictorial allusion to the original quarrel.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
他在监狱里工作。
生活有时像地狱一样艰难。
这个冤狱终于被平反了。
狱卒负责看守犯人。
他因受贿罪而入狱。
那名犯人企图越狱但失败了。
经过十年狱中生活，他彻底改造了自己。
那次审判避免了冤狱，维护了司法公正。