Usage of 捐
The character 捐 primarily means "to donate" or "to give away" something voluntarily, often money or goods, to help others or support a cause. It is commonly used in contexts involving charity, aid, or contributions.
Besides donation, 捐 can also mean "to abandon" or "to relinquish" something, such as giving up a stable life or position for a higher goal. This usage is less frequent but important to recognize.
Common Collocations
- 捐款 (juān kuǎn): to donate money, often used in fundraising.
- 捐赠 (juān zèng): to donate goods or money, formal and common in official contexts.
- 捐弃 (juān qì): to abandon or give up, often used in literary or formal speech.
Notes
When using 捐, the context usually clarifies whether it means donating or abandoning. It is polite and formal, often seen in news reports, charity campaigns, and formal writing. Avoid confusing 捐 with similar verbs like 送 (to send) or 给 (to give), which are more general and less formal.
Understanding 捐 helps learners express generosity and sacrifice in Mandarin effectively.