Meaning
利 is a fundamental character meaning benefit, profit, or advantage when used as a noun, and sharp or favorable when used as an adjective. It appears in countless compound words related to economics, advantages, and usefulness. The character originally depicted a sharp farming tool cutting grain, connecting the ideas of sharpness and productive benefit.
Usage
利 is extremely common in formal and business contexts when discussing profits, interests, or advantages. It appears in many set phrases and legal/economic terminology. Native speakers frequently use it in compounds like 利益 (benefit), 利润 (profit), and 胜利 (victory). As a standalone character, it's more literary; in conversation, it typically appears in compound words.
Examples
- 01这个决定对我们很有利。.This decision is very favorable for us.
- 02我们应该权衡利弊再做决定。.We should weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.
Common collocations
- 有利favorable, advantageous
- 不利unfavorable, disadvantageous
- 利弊pros and cons
- 互利mutually beneficial
Antonyms
Origin
The character 利 combines 禾 (grain) and 刀 (knife), depicting a sharp blade cutting grain efficiently. This original agricultural meaning extended metaphorically to represent any kind of benefit or advantage gained through effective action.