verb HSK 5
Traditional 啟
to open · to start · to initiate · to enlighten
Meaning
启 means to open, start, or initiate something. It originally depicted hands opening a door or gate. The character appears in many compound words related to beginning, opening, or enlightenment. It's often used in formal or literary contexts.
Usage
启 is typically used in compound words rather than alone in modern Mandarin. It appears in formal expressions like 启动 (to start/launch), 启发 (to inspire/enlighten), and 开启 (to open/initiate). The character is more common in written Chinese and formal speech than in everyday conversation.
Examples
- 01这个项目将于下月正式启动。.This project will officially launch next month.
- 02老师的话启发了我对科学的兴趣。.The teacher's words inspired my interest in science.
Common collocations
- 启动仪式opening ceremony, launch ceremony
- 启蒙教育elementary education, enlightenment education
- 启示录Book of Revelation, revelations
Antonyms
Origin
The traditional form 啟 shows a hand (戶) opening a mouth (口), symbolizing opening or beginning. The simplified form 启 maintains the core meaning of opening or initiating.