verb / noun HSK 4
to harm · to injure · to cause trouble · harm · evil
Meaning
害 means to harm, damage, or cause suffering to someone or something. It can be used as a verb meaning 'to injure' or 'to harm,' or as a noun meaning 'harm' or 'evil.' The character appears in many common expressions related to causing trouble, being afraid, or experiencing negative consequences.
Usage
This character is frequently used in compound words rather than alone. Common patterns include 害怕 (to be afraid), 害羞 (to be shy), and 伤害 (to injure). When used alone as a verb, it often appears in more formal or literary contexts. In casual speech, it's more natural to use compounds.
Examples
- 01吸烟不仅害己，还害别人。, .Smoking not only harms oneself, but also harms others.
- 02他害怕一个人在家。.He is afraid of being home alone.
Common collocations
- 害人to harm people
- 受害to be victimized, to be harmed
- 害虫pest, harmful insect
- 利害pros and cons, advantages and disadvantages
Antonyms
Origin
The character 害 originally depicted a person with an injury or obstruction in their mouth, representing the concept of harm or impediment.