(jiān) - Sharp point & awl

Tone 1

jiān | 25 strokes | radical:

· jiān

Sharp point;

awl;

to pierce;

to stab;

ancient variant of 尖 meaning sharp.

Sharp pointawlto pierce

Usage highlights

Sharp pointIron awlPiercing toolSharp weaponTo stab through

Synonyms

Antonyms

  • blunt; dull

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • The awl is used for piercing holes (鑯子).
  • This tool has a very sharp point (鑯利的工具).
  • He used an iron spike to pierce through (用鐵鑯刺穿).

Collocations

  • Sharp point(鑯利)
  • Iron awl(鐵鑯)
  • Piercing tool(鑯子)
  • Sharp weapon(鑯兵)
  • To stab through(鑯穿)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • This character appears in classical texts but is extremely rare in modern usage.
  • It was historically used for sharp tools and weapons, particularly awls and spikes.
  • Considered an ancient variant of the more common character 尖 (jiān) meaning sharp.

FAQ