Definition
扣 (kòu) is a versatile verb meaning 'to deduct, fasten, or confiscate'. For deducting money, 扣除 (kòu chú) is the more formal and specific compound, while 扣 alone is broader and can also mean to withhold. For detaining or confiscating, 扣押 (kòu yā) and 扣留 (kòu liú) are more precise legal terms; 扣 alone is less formal and can mean to detain or seize in everyday contexts.
verb
to deduct (money)to withholdto fastento button upto confiscateto detain
Easily confused
- 报bàolook-aliketo report, to announce
- 口kǒusound-alikemouth (body part)
- 扬yánglook-aliketo raise, to lift up
- 抠kōusound-alike(verb) to pick (with fingers), to dig out, to scratch
- 拣jiǎnlook-aliketo pick, to choose (from a group, often with care or by sorting)
- 搀chānlook-aliketo take by the arm and assist (e.g., an elderly or injured person)
- 抛pāolook-aliketo throw, to toss, to fling
Examples
- 扣。Gōngsī měi gè yuè kòu wǒ de shuì.The company deducts taxes from my salary each month.
- 扣。Qǐng bǎ yīfu kòu hǎo.Please button your clothes.
- 扣。Jǐngchá kòu le tā de hùzhào.The police confiscated his passport.
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