问 (wèn) - to ask & to inquire

问Tone 4

wèn ｜ 6 strokes ｜ radical: 门

万响

问 · wèn

to ask;

to inquire;

to question;

to interrogate;

to hold responsible.

to askto inquireto question

Usage highlights

Ask a questionAsk for directionsInquire aboutInterrogateQuestionnaireAsk for help

Synonyms

  • 询问— to inquire; to ask about
  • 提问— to pose a question
  • 请教— to consult; to ask for advice

Antonyms

  • 答— to answer; to reply
  • 告诉— to tell; to inform

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • May I ask a question?(我可以问一个问题吗?)
  • He asked me for directions (他问我路).
  • The police are questioning the suspect (警察在问嫌疑人).
  • Don't ask about personal matters (不要问私人问题).

Collocations

  • Ask a question(问问题)
  • Ask for directions(问路)
  • Inquire about(询问)
  • Interrogate(审问)
  • Questionnaire(问卷)
  • Ask for help(问好)

Idioms

  • Ask the way by pointing at a carriage(问鼎中原)
  • Ask the way when already on the journey — ask for advice too late(问道于盲)
  • No one cares about right or wrong(不问是非)
  • Seek advice humbly(不耻下问)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • In Confucian tradition, asking questions is essential for learning and self-cultivation.
  • The character reflects the value placed on inquiry and dialogue in Chinese education.
  • The structure symbolizes a 'gate' (门) through which one seeks 'words' (口), representing the passage to knowledge.

FAQ