Core Meaning
The character 结 (jié) primarily means "to tie" or "to knot," often used literally for tying things like shoelaces or ropes. It also extends metaphorically to "forming" or "establishing" relationships or agreements, such as marriage or partnerships.
Common Uses
- Literal tying: 结 can describe physically tying knots, e.g., 结鞋带 (tie shoelaces).
- Marriage: 结婚 means "to get married," a very common collocation.
- Results or conclusions: 结 can indicate producing outcomes or conclusions, e.g., 结出成果 (produce results).
Collocations and Patterns
- 结婚 (jié hūn): to marry; a fixed phrase.
- 结账 (jié zhàng): to settle a bill; common in restaurants or shops.
- 结局 (jié jú): ending or conclusion, often of stories or events.
- 结成 (jié chéng): to form (a group, alliance, etc.).
Usage Notes
When used in the context of marriage or agreements, 结 implies a formal or binding connection. In everyday speech, 结账 is very common when paying bills. Avoid confusing 结 with 解 (jiě), which means "to untie" or "to solve." The character 结 often appears in compound words related to binding or concluding.
Tone and Register
结 is neutral in tone and widely used in both formal and informal contexts. It is a versatile character essential for intermediate and advanced learners, especially in social and transactional situations.