si
(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).