Basic Meanings
The character 叫 (jiào) primarily means "to call" or "to shout." It is used both for calling someone's name and for shouting loudly in various situations.
Common Uses and Collocations
- 叫 + name: to say one's name or to call someone by name (e.g., 我叫李华 - My name is Li Hua).
- 叫 + object (like 救命): to shout or call out loudly (e.g., 叫救命 - shout for help).
- 叫 can describe both intentional calling and loud vocal expressions, often conveying urgency or emotion.
Usage Notes
叫 is very common in daily conversation. When introducing yourself, use 叫 with your name. When describing shouting or calling out, 叫 emphasizes the vocal action. It differs from 喊 (hǎn), which often implies a louder or more forceful shout. Avoid confusing 叫 with 问 (wèn, to ask) or 说 (shuō, to speak), as 叫 focuses on the act of calling or shouting.
Common Collocations
These collocations help learners understand when to use 叫 appropriately in speech and writing.