About
The character "耍" is constructed from the components "而" placed above "女", a structure preserved in its traditional form, with the top element often interpreted as representing a facial feature or, alternatively, serving a phonetic function. Its original meanings revolved around notions of play, amusement, or leisurely conduct, sometimes with a connotation of teasing or jesting. Over centuries, its semantic field expanded and shifted from primarily describing lighthearted, often physical, play or entertainment to encompassing more abstract and sometimes negative applications, such as to wield or manipulate skillfully, as in "耍刀" (to play with a sword), or to exhibit in a showy manner, and further to imply deceit or the act of making a fool of someone, as seen in "耍花招" (to play tricks). This progression reflects a movement from concrete action towards broader metaphorical uses related to performance, skillful control, and cunning behavior.
Example Sentences Hide
孩子们在公园玩耍。
他喜欢耍小聪明。
你别想耍花招。
他在舞台上耍刀。
那个魔术师耍了一套戏法。
他经常耍赖，不承认错误。
政治家在演讲中耍手段。
他为了达到目的，不惜耍阴谋诡计。