yì意si思(Mandarin)(Cantonese)
yì意
si思
(Mandarin)
(Cantonese)
HSK 2
Dictionary
idea/opinion/meaning/wish/desire/interest/fun/token of appreciation, affection etc
Measure word: 個|个[gè]/to give as a small token/to do sth as a gesture of goodwill etc
Examples
你这句话是什么意思?
Nǐ zhè jù huà shì shénme yìsi?
→ What do you mean by this sentence?
Did You Know?
Cultural Note
Word Formation
意 means 'meaning/intention' and 思 means 'thought/think'.
Usage Tips
意思 can mean a 'token gift' or 'gesture' in social contexts, like 小意思 (small token). It's also used in 不好意思 (embarrassed/sorry).