Definitions

abruptly; suddenly; unexpectedly

Etymology

Phonosemantic compound. represents the meaning and represents the sound.

Semantic: Phonetic:

About

Composed of the animal radical 犭 and the phonetic component 卒, the character "猝" originally conveyed the specific idea of a dog rushing forth abruptly, with its structure reflecting this zoological association. Over time, its meaning expanded beyond canine behavior to describe any sudden or unexpected occurrence, a semantic shift that allowed it to function as a general adjective for immediacy. The phonetic element 卒, which carries connotations of haste or quick completion, likely supported this evolution by reinforcing the sense of abruptness inherent in the character. In modern usage, "猝" is primarily found in compounds like "猝死" or "猝然", where it continues to denote events that happen without warning, maintaining its core significance while applying to a broader range of unforeseen circumstances.

Etymology Hide

Seal etymology image
Seal Shuowen (~100 AD)
Traditional Modern
Simplified Modern

Example Sentences Hide

死在家中。

Tā cùsǐ zài jiā zhōng.

He died suddenly at home.

他的去世非常然。

Tā de qùshì fēicháng cùrán.

His death was very sudden.

死的事件时有发生。

Cùsǐ de shìjiàn shí yǒu fāshēng.

Sudden death incidents occur from time to time.

她听到消息后然晕倒。

Tā tīng dào xiāoxi hòu cùrán yūndǎo.

She suddenly fainted after hearing the news.

我们必须预防发疾病。

Wǒmen bìxū yùfáng cùfā jíbìng.

We must prevent sudden illnesses.

变的天气影响了出行。

Cùbiàn de tiānqì yǐngxiǎng le chūxíng.

The sudden change in weather affected travel.

他的逝让家人悲痛。

Tā de cùshì ràng jiārén bēitòng.

His sudden death made his family grieve.

发的火灾造成了损失。

Cùfā de huǒzāi zàochéng le sǔnshī.

The sudden fire caused losses.