Usage of 分 (fēn)
The character 分 is very versatile in Mandarin. Its core meaning is "to divide" or "to separate," which applies to physical objects, abstract concepts like responsibility, or portions of something.
It is also a common unit of measurement:
- Time: 分 means "minute," as in 一分钟 (one minute).
- Currency: 分 is a subunit of the Chinese yuan, similar to cents.
Common Collocations
- 分成 + number + 份: to divide into a certain number of parts (e.g., 分成八份).
- 分清楚 + noun: to clearly distinguish or separate something (e.g., 分清楚责任).
- 分开 + object: to separate or split something physically or figuratively.
Notes
When used as a time unit, 分 is always combined with 钟 (fēnzhōng) to mean "minute." Alone, 分 can also mean "point" or "score" in contexts like exams, but that usage is less common at HSK 3 level.
Avoid confusing 分 with similar-sounding words like 份 (fèn), which means "portion" or "share" but is a different character. However, 分 can be part of phrases involving 份, as in 分成八份.
Understanding the multiple uses of 分 will help you interpret time, money, and division contexts naturally.