Usage and Meaning
The character 截 (jié) primarily means "to cut off," "to intercept," or "to stop abruptly." It is often used in contexts involving physically cutting something, such as ropes or wires, or metaphorically stopping or interrupting a process or flow.
Common Collocations
- 截断 (jiéduàn): to cut off, to sever; used for physical or abstract interruptions.
- 截获 (jiéhuò): to intercept or seize, often used in law enforcement or military contexts.
- 截止 (jiézhǐ): to stop or close (e.g., a deadline).
Usage Notes
When using 截, the focus is on the action of cutting or stopping something completely. It often implies a decisive or forceful interruption. It is different from 断 (duàn), which also means "to break" or "to cut," but 截 often carries a nuance of interception or blocking.
Common Confusion
Do not confuse 截 with 切 (qiē), which also means "to cut" but usually refers to slicing or cutting into pieces rather than cutting off or intercepting.
Register and Tone
This character is neutral and commonly used in both spoken and written Chinese, especially in formal or technical contexts such as law enforcement, engineering, or official announcements.