Core Meaning
The character 动 (dòng) primarily means "to move" or "to cause movement." It can refer to physical movement of objects or machines, as well as metaphorical movement such as emotions or events happening.
Usage in Sentences
动 is often used to describe physical actions, like moving objects or machines operating. It also appears in expressions about emotional impact, e.g., "动人" (moving, touching).
Common Collocations
- 动手 (dòng shǒu): to start work or to take action, often manual labor.
- 动心 (dòng xīn): to be moved emotionally or tempted.
- 动作 (dòngzuò): movement or action, often referring to body movements or gestures.
Nuances and Tips
动 can be both transitive and intransitive depending on context. For example, "动东西" means to move something, while "机器动了" means the machine is running or moving by itself.
Avoid confusing 动 with similar verbs like "走" (zǒu, to walk) which implies self-locomotion, whereas 动 is more general movement or causing movement.