Usage and Meaning
The character "积" primarily means "to accumulate," "to amass," or "to store up." It is often used to describe the gradual gathering of tangible things like money or water, as well as intangible things like knowledge or experience.
Common Collocations
- 积累 (jīlěi): to accumulate (knowledge, experience)
- 积攒 (jīzǎn): to save up (money, resources)
- 积水 (jīshuǐ): accumulated water, puddle
Usage Notes
"积" often appears in contexts emphasizing gradual buildup over time. It can be used both transitively (to accumulate something) and intransitively (something accumulates). When combined with other verbs like "累" or "攒," it forms common compound verbs related to accumulation.
Common Confusions
Do not confuse "积" with "积"'s homophones or similar characters like "基" (foundation) or "绩" (achievement). "积" specifically relates to the act or result of accumulation.
Register and Tone
"积" is neutral in tone and appropriate in both formal and informal contexts. It is a common character in written and spoken Chinese, especially in educational, financial, and environmental contexts.