Definition
改 (gǎi) is a versatile verb meaning 'to change' or 'to correct' (e.g., homework). It is more concrete and everyday than 改变 (gǎi biàn), which emphasizes a transformation or shift in state. For correcting errors, 改 is the standard word; 更正 (gēng zhèng) is more formal and used for written corrections.
verb
to changeto alterto correct (mistakes, homework, etc.)
Easily confused
- 该gāisound-alike(modal verb) should, ought to; used to indicate strong necessity or likelihood
- 该gāisound-alikeshould; ought to
- 盖gàisound-alike(noun) lid, cover, top
- 钙gàisound-alikecalcium
- 概gàisound-alike(bound form) general; approximate (used in 大概, 概况, etc.)
Examples
- 改。Lǎoshī zhèngzài gǎi zuòyè.The teacher is correcting homework.
- 改？Nǐ néng bu néng gǎi yí xià zhège shíjiān?Can you change this time a little?
- 。Nǐ bìxū gǎi diào zhège huài xíguàn.You must get rid of this bad habit.
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