Core Meaning
The character 飞 (fēi) primarily means "to fly" or "to move swiftly through the air." It is used literally for birds, planes, and other flying objects.
Extended and Figurative Uses
Besides the literal sense, 飞 is often used metaphorically to describe something moving very fast or time passing quickly, as in 时间飞 (time flies).
Common Collocations
- 飞机 (fēijī): airplane, a very common compound.
- 飞快 (fēikuài): very fast, often describing speed.
- 飞翔 (fēixiáng): to soar or hover in the air, more poetic.
Usage Notes
飞 is a verb and usually appears before the object or as part of a compound. When used figuratively (like time flying), it conveys a sense of rapid passage or movement. Avoid confusing 飞 with 跳 (tiào, to jump) or 走 (zǒu, to walk), which describe different types of movement.
Summary
飞 is a versatile verb essential for talking about flying and fast movement, both literal and figurative, making it a high-frequency word in everyday and descriptive contexts.