(kāi) — to open (a door, window, etc.); to drive (a vehicle), to operate (a machine), to turn on; to boil (water)

Definition

Basic everyday verb meaning 'to open' or 'to turn on', used for doors, windows, devices, and also 'to drive' a vehicle. Pairs with 打开 for opening physical things, while 关闭 is the formal opposite 'to close / shut down'.

verb
to open (a door, window, etc.)to drive (a vehicle)to operate (a machine)to turn onto boil (water)

Examples

  • Nǐ kāi mén ma?
    Do you open the door?
  • Tā kāi chē qù shāng diàn.
    He drives to the store.
  • Shuǐ kāi le ma?
    Has the water boiled?

Grammar

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