Core Meaning
The character 心 primarily means "heart," referring both to the physical organ and metaphorically to the center of emotions and thoughts. It is a fundamental concept in Chinese culture representing feelings, intentions, and the mind.
Common Uses
- Literal: Refers to the physical heart, e.g., 心跳 (heartbeat).
- Emotional center: Used to express feelings or attitudes, e.g., 善良的心 (kind heart).
- Attention or effort: In phrases like 用心 (to do something attentively or with care).
Collocations and Patterns
- 善良的心: kind heart, emphasizing compassion.
- 用心: to pay attention or put effort into something.
- 心跳: heartbeat, often used to describe nervousness or excitement.
Usage Notes
When using 心 to describe emotions or attitudes, it often pairs with adjectives or verbs to specify the feeling or mental state. In expressions like 用心, it conveys the idea of focusing one's mental energy. Avoid confusing 心 with 心情 (mood) or 心意 (intention), which are related but distinct concepts.