揇 (nǎn) - To grasp, hold, or take with the hand & to measure with the hand (span).

揇Tone 3

nǎn ｜ 12 strokes ｜ radical:

楠念

揇 · nǎn

To grasp, hold, or take with the hand;

to measure with the hand (span).

To grasp, hold, or take with the handto measure with the hand (span).

Usage highlights

hand span measurementto grasp firmlycannot holdmeasure by handgrasp with both hands

Synonyms

  • 握— to hold, grasp
  • 抓— to grab, seize
  • 拿— to take, hold

Antonyms

  • 放— to release, let go
  • 松— to loosen, relax grip

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • He could barely grasp the large bowl (揇不住).
  • She measured the cloth by hand spans (一揇布).
  • The child tried to hold the ball with both hands (用手揇住).

Collocations

  • hand span measurement(一揇)
  • to grasp firmly(揇住)
  • cannot hold(揇不住)
  • measure by hand(手揇)
  • grasp with both hands(双手揇)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • Represents traditional manual measurement techniques using hand spans.
  • Reflects historical practices where standardized measuring tools were not always available.
  • Demonstrates the integration of body parts as measurement units in Chinese culture.

FAQ