Usage of 担 (dān)
The character 担 primarily means "to bear" or "to carry" responsibility or physical load. It is often used in contexts where someone takes on duties, roles, or burdens.
Common contexts
- Taking responsibility: 担起责任 means to take on responsibility, often used in work or social contexts.
- Physical carrying: 担着 heavy objects, like bags or loads, is a common literal use.
- Assuming roles: 担任 refers to assuming a position or role, especially leadership or official duties.
Collocations and patterns
- 担起责任 (take on responsibility): used when someone accepts accountability.
- 担着书包 (carry a schoolbag): literal physical carrying.
- 担任领导 (assume leadership): formal contexts for roles.
Notes
担 is often confused with 担心 (to worry), but 担心 uses 担 as part of a compound meaning "to worry," not the standalone "to bear" meaning. When used alone or in 担任, 担 clearly relates to bearing or carrying something, whether physical or abstract.
The tone is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts depending on the phrase.