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    Chinese Grammar

    Using 十字 (shízì) to express "cross"

    Description & Modification
    Topic & Focus

    Structure

    十字 + Noun

    Explanation

    The noun 十字 (shízì) literally means "cross" and refers to the cross shape formed by the character 十. It appears most commonly in compound words like 红十字会 (Red Cross Society) and 十字路口 (crossroads/intersection). On its own, it describes the shape or symbol of a cross.

    Examples

    • 我们在十字路口左转就到了。

      wǒmen zài shízì lùkǒu zuǒ zhuǎn jiù dào le.

      We just need to turn left at the intersection and we'll be there.

    • 那件衣服上有一个红色的十字图案。

      nà jiàn yīfu shàng yǒu yí ge hóngsè de shízì tú'àn.

      There is a red cross pattern on that piece of clothing.

    • 这个十字形的项链是她妈妈留给她的。

      zhège shízì xíng de xiàngliàn shì tā māma liú gěi tā de.

      This cross-shaped necklace was left to her by her mother.

    Using 十字 (shízì) to express "cross" | Chinese Grammar