tiān

to add, to append, to increase, to replenish

HSK 6 11 strokes
Stroke order animation for 添

Words with this Character

Usage of

The character (tiān) primarily means "to add" or "to append" something, often implying adding a small amount or supplementing what already exists. It is commonly used when talking about adding liquids, details, or items to something.

Common Collocations

  • (tiān shuǐ): to add water, often used when refilling a container.
  • 衣服 (tiān yīfu): to add clothing, usually to keep warm.
  • 细节 (tiān xìjié): to add details, often in writing or speech.

Notes

is more formal and specific than (jiā), which is a more general "to add." often implies a careful or considerate addition rather than a large or rough increase. It is frequently used in contexts involving care or refinement, such as adding details to a report or adding a little water to tea.

Avoid confusing with (tián), which means "to fill" (like filling a form or a hole).

Example Sentences

请你帮我添点水。

Qǐng nǐ bāng wǒ tiān diǎn shuǐ.

Please help me add some water.

他在报告里添了很多细节。

Tā zài bàogào lǐ tiān le hěn duō xìjié.

He added many details in the report.

天气冷了,妈妈给我添了件衣服。

Tiānqì lěng le, māma gěi wǒ tiān le jiàn yīfu.

The weather got cold, mom added a piece of clothing for me.