Meaning
改 is a common verb meaning to change, modify, or correct something. It implies making adjustments or improvements to something that already exists, rather than creating something entirely new. The character shows a hand striking or tapping, suggesting the act of making corrections or alterations.
Usage
改 is frequently used in compounds and appears in many everyday contexts: correcting mistakes (改错), changing plans (改变), revising documents (修改), or switching careers (改行). It's neutral in register and can be used in both formal and casual speech. Often combined with other verbs to specify what kind of change is being made.
Examples
- 01老师正在改作业。.The teacher is correcting homework.
- 02我们改天再见面吧。.Let's meet another day.
Common collocations
- 改天another day, some other time
- 改错to correct errors
- 改口to change one's tune, retract what one said
- 改革reform
Antonyms
Origin
The character 改 consists of 己 (self) and 攵 (strike/tap), suggesting the idea of striking or correcting oneself, hence to change or correct.