About
The character for "fine" or "thin", now written as "细" in its simplified form, originates from the traditional character "細", structurally composed of the silk radical "糸" on the left and the component "囟" on the right, the latter evoking the idea of a small opening or something minute. This combination initially conveyed the tangible quality of slender silk threads, grounding its early meaning in physical fineness and delicacy. Over time, the application of the character extended beyond material thinness to describe abstract qualities, such as intricate detail, minute examination, and thoroughness in actions or thought. The graphical evolution that resulted in the simplified form "细" replaced the original right-hand component with "田", a change in form that nonetheless preserved the conceptual association with minuteness inherent in its etymological foundation.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
细心做事很重要。
请仔细检查作业。
这些细小的错误要改正。
她的笔触非常细腻。
注意声音的细微变化。
河边有细长的柳枝。
科学家仔细研究了数据。
通过细致规划，项目顺利推进。