Usage of 求
The character 求 primarily means "to seek" or "to request." It is often used when asking for help, favors, or something desired. For example, 求帮助 means "to ask for help."
Common contexts
- Seeking something abstract like peace (求和平).
- Requesting assistance or a favor (求帮助).
- Proposing marriage (求婚).
Collocations and patterns
- 求助 (to seek help): used when asking for assistance.
- 求职 (to seek a job): common in job hunting contexts.
- 求爱 (to court or woo): used in romantic contexts.
Nuances
求 is more formal and direct than some other verbs for "ask" or "seek." It often implies a strong desire or urgent request. It can be used both in spoken and written Chinese but is more common in formal or literary contexts.
Common confusion
Don't confuse 求 with 请 (qǐng), which is more polite and used for invitations or requests in everyday speech. 求 often implies a stronger or more earnest request.