聯 (lián) - To connect, link, join, unite & an alliance, union

聯Tone 2

lián ｜ 17 strokes ｜ radical:

俊梁

聯 · lián

To connect, link, join, unite;

an alliance, union;

couplet, antithetical phrase;

used in words related to connection and association.

To connect, link, join, unitean alliance, unioncouplet, antithetical phrase

Usage highlights

AllianceConnectionUnited NationsCoupletAssociateFederation

Synonyms

  • 连— to connect, link
  • 结— to tie, join
  • 合— to combine, unite

Antonyms

  • 断— to break, sever
  • 分— to separate, divide
  • 离— to leave, separate

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • The two companies formed an alliance (联盟).
  • I need to connect the wires (连接电线).
  • They wrote a poetic couplet (对联).
  • The United Nations (联合国) promotes peace.

Collocations

  • Alliance(联盟)
  • Connection(连接)
  • United Nations(联合国)
  • Couplet(对联)
  • Associate(联合)
  • Federation(联邦)

Idioms

  • Pearls joined together, excellent literary composition(珠联璧合)
  • Three families connected by marriage(三联姻)
  • Federally united(联邦制)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • Historically important in Chinese poetry as part of antithetical couplets (对联) displayed during festivals.
  • Represents concepts of unity and alliance in political and social contexts.
  • The character structure with 耳 (ear) suggests connection through hearing or communication.

FAQ