Meaning and Usage
The character 坠 (zhuì) primarily means "to fall" or "to drop," often used in contexts involving falling from a height or crashing. It can describe accidents like falling down stairs or an airplane crash. Additionally, 坠 is used as a noun meaning "pendant" or "drop-shaped ornament," commonly seen in jewelry.
Common Collocations
- 坠落 (zhuìluò): to fall or crash down, often used for accidents.
- 坠子 (zhuìzi): pendant or ornament hanging from a necklace or clothing.
Usage Notes
When used as a verb, 坠 often implies a sudden or accidental fall, usually from a significant height. It is more formal and literary compared to the more common verb 掉 (diào) for "fall." As a noun, 坠 refers to decorative objects, especially in jewelry. Avoid confusing 坠 (fall) with 掉, which is more general and colloquial for falling or dropping small objects.