noun HSK 1
Traditional 書
book · writing · script
Meaning
书 is one of the most fundamental words in Chinese, meaning 'book'. It can refer to any bound volume of writing, from novels to textbooks. The character originally depicted a hand holding a writing brush, reflecting the act of writing or recording information.
Usage
This is an extremely common everyday word used by all speakers. It appears in countless compound words related to reading, writing, and education. When counting books, the measure word 本 (běn) is almost always used. In classical contexts, 书 can also mean 'letter' or 'document'.
Examples
- 01我每天晚上都看书。.I read books every evening.
- 02这本书很有意思。.This book is very interesting.
Measure words
- 本一本书
- 册三册书
Common collocations
- 看书to read a book
- 买书to buy books
- 书店bookstore
- 一本书a book
Origin
The traditional form 書 shows a hand holding a brush over a surface, representing the act of writing. The simplified form 书 retains this basic concept in a more streamlined design.