to allow

HSK 7

漢字分解

Usage of

The character (xǔ) primarily means "to permit" or "to allow." It is often used in contexts where someone grants permission or agrees to something. For example, a teacher might students to submit homework late.

Another common use is in the phrase (xǔnuò), meaning "to promise." This shows a commitment or assurance, often in formal or serious contexts.

Additionally, can function as a quantifier meaning "many" or "a lot of," especially in literary or formal language, as in 许多 (xǔduō).

Common collocations

  • 许愿 (xǔyuàn): to make a wish
  • (xǔnuò): to promise
  • 许多 (xǔduō): many, a lot

Notes

When using to mean "permit," it often appears before verbs and is followed by the action allowed. When expressing "many," it usually precedes a noun.

Be careful not to confuse with similar-sounding words like (xū, "to need") or (xù, "to continue").

例文

老师许我们明天交作业。

Lǎoshī xǔ wǒmen míngtiān jiāo zuòyè.

The teacher allowed us to submit the homework tomorrow.

他许诺会按时完成任务。

Tā xǔnuò huì ànshí wánchéng rènwù.

He promised to complete the task on time.

许多游客喜欢这里的风景。

Xǔduō yóukè xǐhuān zhèlǐ de fēngjǐng.

Many tourists like the scenery here.