这

• Pinyin: zhè
• Hanzi breakdown: 这 = 辶 (movement radical) + 文 (writing/pattern) — simplified form of 這

Meaning

This. A demonstrative pronoun pointing to something nearby or currently being discussed.

One of the most fundamental words in Chinese. Used before a measure word and noun to indicate something close to the speaker or currently under discussion. For example: 这个人 (this person), 这本书 (this book). Can also be used alone as a pronoun meaning 'this' in response to questions.

Examples

1. 这是我的书。 This is my book.
2. 这个苹果很好吃。 This apple is very tasty.
3. 你看，这是我的家。 Look, this is my home.

Usage Guide

Context: everyday

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 这个多少钱？(How much is this one?)
• 这是我朋友。(This is my friend.)

Don't Say

• 这书很好。(Don't omit the measure word — say 这本书很好)

Origin & History

Simplified from the traditional form 這. The character evolved from earlier forms meaning 'to meet' or 'to go towards', eventually settling on its demonstrative meaning.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal