(kāi) - to open & to start

Tone 1

kāi | 4 strokes | radical: 廾

· kāi

to open;

to start;

to operate;

to drive;

to boil;

to write out (a list, receipt, etc.

);

unit for percentage (e.

g.

, 三七开 means 30-70 split).

to opento startto operate

Usage highlights

to opento driveto start/beginto developto be happyto hold a meeting

Synonyms

  • to open; to start
  • to begin; to start
  • to open; to spread

Antonyms

  • to close; to shut
  • to close; to shut
  • to close; to join
  • to end; to finish

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • Please open the door (开门).
  • The store opens at 9 AM (商店九点开).
  • Water boils at 100 degrees Celsius (水在100度开).
  • He drives a car (他开车).

Collocations

  • to open(开门)
  • to drive(开车)
  • to start/begin(开始)
  • to develop(开发)
  • to be happy(开心)
  • to hold a meeting(开会)

Idioms

  • To break new ground for future generations(开天辟地)
  • To see the world(开眼界)
  • To make a convenient exception(开绿灯)
  • To speak frankly(开诚布公)
  • To start a school(开馆授徒)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • Represents positive concepts of beginning, development, and expansion in Chinese culture.
  • Used in business names to signify grand opening and prosperity.
  • Associated with innovation and pioneering spirit.

FAQ