verb / noun HSK 4
Traditional 錄
to record · to copy · to employ · record
Meaning
录 means to record, register, or transcribe something. It originally referred to copying text or taking down information, but in modern usage commonly means audio/video recording. It can also mean to hire or employ someone (录取/录用).
Usage
录 is frequently used in compounds related to recording media (录音, 录像) and admission processes (录取). As a standalone verb, it's less common than its compound forms. Native speakers use it in both formal contexts (employment, admissions) and casual contexts (making recordings).
Examples
- 01我把会议内容录下来了。.I recorded the meeting content.
- 02她被北京大学录取了。.She was admitted to Peking University.
Common collocations
- 录音to record audio; recording
- 录像to record video; video recording
- 录取to admit; to enroll
- 记录to record; record
Antonyms
Origin
The traditional form 錄 combines 金 (metal) and 彔 (to carve/engrave), referring to inscribing records on metal or other durable materials.