verb HSK 4
to bow · to pay respects · to worship · to visit
Meaning
拜 is a formal verb expressing respect through physical gesture or social action. Originally it meant to bow deeply or kowtow in traditional Chinese culture. Today it's commonly used for visiting elders, paying respects at temples, or formally acknowledging someone.
Usage
Used in formal or traditional contexts when showing respect. Common in phrases like 拜年 (New Year visit), 拜访 (formal visit), and 崇拜 (to worship/admire). Can sound old-fashioned or ceremonial in casual conversation, though compound words using 拜 remain common in everyday speech.
Examples
- 01春节期间我们去拜访了爷爷奶奶。.During Spring Festival we went to visit Grandpa and Grandma.
- 02拜托你帮我一个忙好吗？?Could you please do me a favor?
Common collocations
- 拜年to pay New Year respects
- 拜访to pay a visit
- 拜师to acknowledge someone as teacher
- 拜托please (polite request)
Origin
The character shows two hands (手) below, originally depicting the gesture of placing hands together or on the ground in a respectful bow or kowtow.