Meaning
副 has three main uses: as a measure word for things that come in pairs or sets (like glasses, gloves), as a prefix meaning 'deputy' or 'vice-' (like 副总统 'vice president'), and as an adjective meaning 'secondary' or 'auxiliary'. The character originally depicted dividing something with a knife, suggesting the idea of 'paired' or 'secondary'.
Usage
As a measure word, 副 is used for pairs of items (一副眼镜 'a pair of glasses') and sets that work together (一副手套 'a pair of gloves', 一副扑克牌 'a deck of cards'). As a prefix, it creates titles for deputy positions in formal/official contexts. Native speakers use it naturally for both grammatical functions without thinking about the connection between them.
Examples
- 01他买了一副新眼镜。.He bought a new pair of glasses.
- 02她是公司的副总经理。.She is the deputy general manager of the company.
Common collocations
- 副总统vice president
- 副作用side effect
- 副业side business; sideline
- 一副眼镜a pair of glasses
Antonyms
Origin
The character combines 刂(knife radical) with 畐 (phonetic component meaning 'full'), originally suggesting cutting something in half to create a pair or secondary portion.