指 (zhǐ) - finger & to point

指Tone 3

zhǐ ｜ 9 strokes ｜ radical:

丈志

指 · zhǐ

finger;

to point;

to indicate;

to refer to;

to depend on;

to direct;

to mean

fingerto pointto indicate

Usage highlights

index fingerto point atinstructionsfingerprintcommandto accuse

Synonyms

Antonyms

  • 掌— palm (as opposed to fingers)
  • 拳— fist (closed hand versus pointing finger)

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • He pointed at the map (指地图).
  • Please follow the instructions (按照指示).
  • The index finger is called 食指.
  • The temperature is below zero (温度在零度以下).

Collocations

  • index finger(食指)
  • to point at(指向)
  • instructions(指示)
  • fingerprint(指纹)
  • command(指挥)
  • to accuse(指责)

Idioms

  • Pointing at a deer and calling it a horse(指鹿为马)
  • Countless(屈指可数)
  • Pointing to the mulberry and scolding the locust(指桑骂槐)
  • Unable to lift a finger(指不胜屈)
  • Pointing out the way(指路明灯)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • In Chinese culture, pointing with the index finger is considered impolite; gesturing with an open hand is preferred.
  • The character appears in many idioms about deception, accusation, and guidance.
  • Finger gestures carry specific meanings, such as the 'number eight' gesture representing wealth.

FAQ