鎖 (suǒ) - Lock — a device for fastening or securing & to lock up

鎖Tone 3

suǒ ｜ 18 strokes ｜ radical:

树檀

鎖 · suǒ

Lock — a device for fastening or securing something, typically operated by a key;

to lock up;

also refers to chains or fetters.

Lock — a device for fastening or securingto lock upalso refers to chains or fetters.

Usage highlights

LockTo lockKey and lockLock upChain lockLockpick

Synonyms

Antonyms

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • I need to lock the door (锁门).
  • The key is in the lock (钥匙在锁里).
  • He bought a new bicycle lock (自行车锁).
  • The treasure chest was secured with a heavy lock (用重锁锁住).

Collocations

  • Lock(锁)
  • To lock(锁上)
  • Key and lock(钥匙和锁)
  • Lock up(锁住)
  • Chain lock(链锁)
  • Lockpick(开锁工具)

Idioms

  • Locking the country and closing the borders(锁国闭关)
  • A golden chain and embroidered padlock(金锁绣袱)
  • Locking the clouds and containing the rain(锁云含雨)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • Locks symbolize security, protection, and confinement in Chinese culture.
  • Historically used in metaphors for isolation policies, such as during the Qing dynasty's 'Closed Country' period.
  • In naming, it can convey a sense of steadfastness or protection, but may also imply restriction.

FAQ