兼 (jiān) - To combine, to double, to hold two or & simultaneously

兼Tone 1

jiān ｜ 10 strokes ｜ radical:

嘉健

兼 · jiān

To combine, to double, to hold two or more positions concurrently;

simultaneously;

both;

to unite.

To combine, to double, to hold two orsimultaneouslyboth

Usage highlights

Concurrently hold a positionTake into consideration both aspectsPartCombine multiple functionsDualSimultaneous advancement

Synonyms

  • 并— combine, merge
  • 合— join, unite
  • 双— double, both

Antonyms

  • 单— single, alone
  • 独— sole, only
  • 专— specialized, focused

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • He holds two positions concurrently (兼任).
  • This device combines multiple functions (兼有多种功能).
  • We need to consider both aspects (兼顾两个方面).
  • He works and studies at the same time (兼职学习).

Collocations

  • Concurrently hold a position(兼任)
  • Take into consideration both aspects(兼顾)
  • Part-time job(兼职)
  • Combine multiple functions(兼有)
  • Dual-purpose(兼用)
  • Simultaneous advancement(兼进)

Idioms

  • To kill two birds with one stone(一举两得)
  • Both talent and virtue(德才兼备)
  • To attend to both the root and the branch(标本兼治)
  • Hardness and softness combined(软硬兼施)
  • Both public and private interests(公私兼顾)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • Originally depicted holding two stalks of grain, representing the concept of combining or doubling.
  • Reflects the Confucian ideal of balanced development in multiple areas of life and learning.
  • Commonly used in administrative contexts to describe officials holding multiple responsibilities.

FAQ