Meanings and Usage
The character "派" (pài) primarily means a faction, group, or clique, often used to describe social, political, or artistic groups. It also functions as a verb meaning "to send" or "to dispatch" someone somewhere.
Common Collocations
- 文学派 (wénxué pài): literary faction or school
- 派出 (pài chū): to send out, dispatch
- 派人 (pài rén): to send someone
Usage Notes
When used as a noun, "派" refers to a group with shared characteristics or beliefs, such as a political faction or artistic school. As a verb, it is often followed by the object indicating who is sent and the destination or purpose.
Be careful not to confuse "派" with "排" (pái), which means to arrange or line up. Although they sound similar, their meanings and uses differ significantly.
Register and Tone
"派" is a neutral term used in both formal and informal contexts. It appears frequently in news, academic discussions, and everyday conversation when talking about groups or sending people.