Usage of 整 (zhěng)
The character 整 is commonly used to express the idea of making something neat, orderly, or complete. It can describe physical tidying, such as cleaning a room, or abstract organization, like system reforms.
Common meanings
- To tidy or arrange neatly
- Whole or entire (often emphasizing completeness)
- To reorganize or rectify
Typical collocations
- 整理 (zhěnglǐ): to organize or tidy up
- 整顿 (zhěngdùn): to rectify or reorganize
- 整整 (zhěngzhěng): an adverb meaning "whole" or "full" (used for emphasis on duration or quantity)
Notes
When used as an adjective or adverb, 整 emphasizes completeness or neatness. For example, 整整一个小时 means a full hour, stressing the entire duration. In contrast to similar words like 彻底 (chèdǐ, thorough), 整 often focuses on order and completeness rather than depth.
Avoid confusing 整 with 正 (zhèng), which means "correct" or "just"; they have different meanings and uses despite similar pronunciation.