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    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing 'to light' or 'to point' with 点 (diǎn)

    Actions & Events

    Structure

    点 + Object

    Explanation

    The verb 点 (diǎn) has multiple meanings including "to light," "to point at," "to order (food)," and "to nod." Its meaning depends on context: 点火 means "to light a fire," 点菜 means "to order dishes," and 点头 means "to nod." It is one of the most versatile characters in Chinese.

    Examples

    • 服务员，我们想点几个菜。

      fúwùyuán, wǒmen xiǎng diǎn jǐ gè cài.

      Waiter, we'd like to order some dishes.

    • 他点了点头，表示同意。

      tā diǎn le diǎn tóu, biǎoshì tóngyì.

      He nodded to show his agreement.

    • 天黑了，快把蜡烛点上吧。

      tiān hēi le, kuài bǎ làzhú diǎn shàng ba.

      It's getting dark. Hurry up and light the candle.

    Expressing 'to light' or 'to point' with 点 (diǎn) | Chinese Grammar