(lín) - to face & to overlook

Tone 2

lín | 9 strokes | radical: 丨

· lín

to face;

to overlook;

to approach;

to arrive;

to copy (a model of calligraphy or painting);

on the point of;

just before;

about to

to faceto overlookto approach

Usage highlights

faceoverlookapproacharrivecopytemporary

Synonyms

Antonyms

  • to turn away from
  • to leave, depart

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • The hotel overlooks the sea (临海).
  • He is about to graduate (临毕业).
  • She is copying a famous painting (临摹名画).
  • We face many challenges (面临挑战).

Collocations

  • face(面临)
  • overlook(临海)
  • approach(临近)
  • arrive(来临)
  • copy(临摹)
  • temporary(临时)

Idioms

  • Face danger with courage(临危不惧)
  • Make a plan only when the time comes(临渴掘井)
  • Temporary expedient(临阵磨枪)
  • Ascend a height and face the deep(临深履薄)
  • Change of command on the eve of battle(临阵易将)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • In calligraphy and painting, '临' refers to the practice of copying masterworks as a fundamental learning method.
  • Used in military contexts to describe being on the brink of battle or sudden command changes.
  • Appears in philosophical contexts about facing challenges and maintaining composure in difficult situations.

FAQ