Core Meaning
The character 列 primarily means a 'line' or 'row' of things arranged in order. It can refer to physical rows, such as people standing in a line, or abstract rows, like columns in a table.
Usage in Context
列 is often used to describe spatial arrangements, such as 排成一列 (to line up in a row) or 表的列 (columns of a table). It can also indicate sequence or order, for example, 第一列 (the first row).
Common Collocations
- 排成一列: to line up in a row, used when organizing people or objects.
- 表的列: columns in a table, common in data or spreadsheet contexts.
- 第一列: the first row, indicating position or order.
Nuances
When using 列, the focus is on the linear arrangement or sequence. It differs from 行 (háng), which usually means 'row' horizontally, while 列 often implies vertical columns or a line. Be careful not to confuse 列 with 行 in contexts like tables.
Summary
Use 列 when talking about lines or columns of objects or people arranged in order. It is a versatile word for describing spatial or sequential arrangements in both everyday and formal contexts.