Definitions

fán (adjective) complicated; numerous; abundant

Etymology

Phonosemantic compound. represents the meaning and represents the sound. Simplified form of .

Semantic: Phonetic:

About

The character "繁" in its traditional form, which was not structurally simplified but had its orthography standardized from an earlier variant "緐", derives from a composition that visually suggests elaboration and multiplicity. Its core components intertwine the idea of silk threads (糸) with an element historically representing growth or abundance, originally depicting a hairpin adorned with many ornaments, leading to an intrinsic meaning of something profuse or intricate. Over time, its application moved from describing tangible adornment and abundance to encompassing abstract concepts of complexity, numerousness, and detailed elaboration, as seen in words for繁殖 (to multiply), 繁雜 (complicated), and 繁榮 (prosperous). This semantic expansion reflects a shift from a physical depiction of intertwined finery to a broad adjective for any condition characterized by manifold or intricate elements.

Etymology Hide

Bronze etymology image
Bronze Early Western Zhou (~1000 BC)
Bronze etymology image
Bronze Mid Western Zhou (~900 BC)
Seal etymology image
Seal Late Western Zhou (~800 BC)
Bronze etymology image
Bronze Mid Spring and Autumn (~600 BC)
Bronze etymology image
Bronze Mid Warring States (~300 BC)
Seal etymology image
Seal Chu (Warring States: 475-221 BC)
Seal etymology image
Seal Chu (Warring States: 475-221 BC)
Seal etymology image
Seal Shuowen (~100 AD)
Seal etymology image
Seal Shuowen (~100 AD)
Seal etymology image
Seal Western Han dynasty (202 BC-9 AD)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Eastern Han dynasty (25-220 AD)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Eastern Han dynasty (25-220 AD)
Traditional Modern
Simplified Modern

Example Sentences Hide

他的工作很忙。

Tā de gōngzuò hěn fánmáng.

His work is very busy.

这座城市十分华。

Zhè zuò chéngshì shífēn fánhuá.

This city is very bustling.

这些规定过于琐。

Zhèxiē guīdìng guòyú fánsuǒ.

These regulations are too cumbersome.

市场经济荣稳定。

Shìchǎng jīngjì fánróng wěndìng.

The market economy is prosperous and stable.

她每天面对重的家务。

Tā měitiān miànduì fánzhòng de jiāwù.

She faces heavy housework every day.

这种植物在温暖气候中衍。

Zhè zhǒng zhíwù zài wēnnuǎn qìhòu zhōng fányǎn.

This plant multiplies in warm climates.

这个程序的步骤非常复。

Zhège chéngxù de bùzhòu fēicháng fánfù.

The steps of this program are very complex.

在全球化背景下,文化交往日益频

Zài quánqiúhuà bèijǐng xià, wénhuà jiāowǎng rìyì pínfán.

Under the background of globalization, cultural exchanges are increasingly frequent.