位 (wèi) - position & location
位 · wèi
position;
location;
seat;
place;
status;
rank;
(measure word for people, showing respect)
positionlocationseat
Usage highlights
position/locationjob positionstatus/rankseatunit/bitdigit place
Usage & contexts
Examples
- Please take a seat (请坐位).
- What is your position in the company?(你的职位是什么?)
- This is a good location (这是个好位置).
- Three guests (三位客人).
Collocations
- position/location(位置)
- job position(职位)
- status/rank(地位)
- seat(座位)
- unit/bit(单位)
- digit place(数位)
Idioms
- Each performs their own duties(各就各位)
- Three pillars of the state(三公之位)
- Not in the proper position(不在其位，不谋其政)
Cultural background
FAQ- Originally depicted a person standing in position, emphasizing proper placement and social order.
- Used as a respectful measure word for people, reflecting Confucian emphasis on proper social relationships.
- In traditional Chinese society, one's '位' (position/status) was closely tied to social hierarchy and responsibilities.