橋 (qiáo) - Bridge — a structure built over a river, & also used metaphorically for connection or transition.

橋Tone 2

qiáo ｜ 16 strokes ｜ radical:

器情

橋 · qiáo

Bridge — a structure built over a river, road, or valley to allow people or vehicles to cross;

also used metaphorically for connection or transition.

Bridge — a structure built over a river,also used metaphorically for connection or transition.

Usage highlights

Stone bridgeBridge constructionBridge engineerRailway bridgeSuspension bridgeCultural bridge

Synonyms

  • 桥梁— bridge (more formal term)

Antonyms

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • We crossed the stone bridge (石桥).
  • The bridge is under construction (桥梁 construction).
  • He works as a bridge engineer (桥梁工程师).
  • This program serves as a cultural bridge (文化桥梁).

Collocations

  • Stone bridge(石桥)
  • Bridge construction(桥梁建设)
  • Bridge engineer(桥梁工程师)
  • Railway bridge(铁路桥)
  • Suspension bridge(悬索桥)
  • Cultural bridge(文化桥梁)

Idioms

  • Burn the bridges behind you(过河拆桥)
  • Repair the bridge after crossing the river(过桥抽板)
  • A bridge of magpies(鹊桥)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • Bridges are symbols of connection, transition, and overcoming obstacles in Chinese culture.
  • The 'Bridge of Magpies' (鹊桥) is a famous mythological bridge formed by magpies, allowing the separated lovers Niulang and Zhinu to meet once a year during the Qixi Festival.
  • Historically, bridges were important feats of engineering and often became cultural landmarks.

FAQ