叩 (kòu) - To knock & to kowtow
叩 · kòu
To knock;
to kowtow;
to inquire;
to ask respectfully.
To knockto kowtowto inquire
Usage highlights
To knock on a doorTo kowtowTo inquire respectfullyTo knock and inquireTo prostrate oneself in worshipTo knock and enter
Usage & contexts
Examples
- Please knock before entering (叩门).
- He kowtowed to show respect (叩头).
- I would like to inquire about the matter (叩问).
Collocations
- To knock on a door(叩门)
- To kowtow(叩头)
- To inquire respectfully(叩问)
- To knock and inquire(叩询)
- To prostrate oneself in worship(叩拜)
- To knock and enter(叩入)
Idioms
- To knock one's head on the ground(叩首)
- To knock at the door and inquire(叩门而问)
- To knock on the door of learning(叩学之门)
Cultural background
FAQ- 叩头 (kowtow) was a traditional Chinese gesture of deep respect, involving kneeling and touching the head to the ground.
- The character reflects traditional Chinese etiquette where knocking before entering and respectful inquiry were important social norms.