verb HSK 4
to inhale · to breathe in · to absorb · to suck
Meaning
吸 is a common verb that describes drawing something in, whether air into the lungs, liquid through a straw, or abstract concepts like attention. It forms the basis of many compound words related to breathing, absorption, and attraction.
Usage
吸 appears frequently in compound verbs like 吸收 (to absorb), 吸引 (to attract), and 呼吸 (to breathe). When used alone, it often refers to physically inhaling or sucking something in. It's commonly used in both everyday conversation and scientific or medical contexts.
Examples
- 01深深地吸一口气，然后慢慢呼出来。, .Take a deep breath in, then slowly exhale.
- 02他用吸管吸果汁。.He drinks juice through a straw.
Common collocations
- 吸烟to smoke
- 吸毒to take drugs
- 吸气to inhale
- 吸管straw (for drinking)
Antonyms
Origin
The character combines 口 (mouth) with 及 (to reach), suggesting the action of the mouth reaching out to draw something in.