Usage of 系 (xì)
The character 系 has two main uses in modern Mandarin. First, it means "to connect" or "to tie," often used literally as in tying or fastening something. For example, "系绳子" means "to tie a rope."
Second, 系 is a common noun meaning "department" or "faculty" in an academic context, such as 数学系 (mathematics department). This usage is very common in educational settings.
Common Collocations
- 系绳 (to tie a rope): literal tying or fastening
- 数学系, 物理系 (math department, physics department): academic departments
- 系在一起 (connected together): figurative or literal connection
Notes
When used as a verb meaning "to connect," 系 often appears with objects like ropes, belts, or figurative connections between concepts. As a noun for academic departments, it is always followed by the field of study.
Avoid confusing 系 with 继 (jì, to continue) or 细 (xì, fine), which sound similar but have different meanings and uses.