通 — meaning in English: through

tōng · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for pass

成本

chéngběn

玫瑰

méiguī

角色

juésè

通

tōng

个人

gèrén

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neutral common

Usage

Native speakers use the word 通 (tōng) when discussing travel or communication, such as saying '通行无阻' (tōng xíng wú zǔ), meaning 'to go through without obstruction.' It's common in everyday conversations about transportation or when explaining how information flows between individuals or systems.

Synonyms & nuances

通 (tōng) is often used in contexts involving actual passage, while 经过 (jīng guò) emphasizes the process of going through something. You'd choose 通 when you want to highlight the idea of connectivity or flow, like discussing a network, while 经过 might be more appropriate for narrating experiences or journeys.

Culture

The character 通 has a rich history, originating from a pictogram representing a pathway. Interestingly, it also carries connotations in Chinese culture related to accessibility and understanding, as in '通情达理' (tōng qíng dá lǐ), meaning someone who is reasonable and empathetic. This underscores the importance of communication and connection in Chinese society.

FAQ

Q.What does the word 通 mean in Mandarin?

通 (tōng) means 'through' in Mandarin. It's used to indicate passage or flow, whether literally or metaphorically.

Q.How do you use 通 in a sentence?

You can use 通 in sentences like '这条路通往学校' (zhè tiáo lù tōng wǎng xuéxiào), which means 'This road leads to the school.'

Q.Are there common mistakes when using 通?

A common mistake is to confuse 通 with similar words like 经过 (jīng guò). Remember, 通 emphasizes connection and flow, while 经过 focuses on the act of passing through.

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