辯 (biàn) - To debate, argue, dispute & to discuss

辯Tone 4

biàn ｜ 21 strokes ｜ radical:

傲不

辯 · biàn

To debate, argue, dispute;

to discuss;

to distinguish;

eloquent speech.

To debate, argue, disputeto discussto distinguish

Usage highlights

DebateDefend/pleadDistinguish/discriminateArgue/contendEloquenceSophistry/specious reasoning

Synonyms

  • 论— to discuss, discourse
  • 争— to contend, dispute
  • 说— to speak, explain

Antonyms

  • 默— silent, taciturn
  • 哑— mute, speechless

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • The lawyers debated fiercely in court (法庭辩论).
  • He is good at argumentation (他很会辩).
  • We need to distinguish right from wrong (辩明是非).
  • She defended herself eloquently (她为自己辩护).

Collocations

  • Debate(辩论)
  • Defend/plead(辩护)
  • Distinguish/discriminate(辩别)
  • Argue/contend(争辩)
  • Eloquence(辩才)
  • Sophistry/specious reasoning(诡辩)

Idioms

  • Able to argue skillfully and plausibly(能言善辩)
  • Sophistry that confuses right and wrong(辩口利舌)
  • Eloquence that can make the dead come alive(辩才无碍)
  • Unarguable facts(无可争辩)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • In ancient China, skilled debaters were highly valued in legal and philosophical contexts.
  • The character reflects the importance of rhetoric and logical argumentation in Chinese intellectual tradition.
  • Debate skills were considered essential for scholars and officials in imperial examinations.

FAQ