按

• Pinyin: àn
• Hanzi breakdown: 按 = 扌(hand) + 安 (peaceful, phonetic component)

Meaning

To press; according to. Functions as both a verb meaning to push down and a preposition meaning in accordance with.

As a verb, 按 means to press or push down on something, such as pressing a button or applying pressure. As a preposition, it means 'according to' or 'in accordance with,' following rules, order, or a plan. Common in phrases like 按时 (on time) and 按照 (according to).

Examples

1. 请按一下这个按钮。 Please press this button.
2. 我们要按时完成这个任务。 We need to complete this task on time.
3. 你应该按照老师的要求写作业。 You should do your homework according to the teacher's requirements.

Usage Guide

Context: instructions, everyday, work

Tone: direct

Do Say

• 请按顺序排队。(Please line up in order.)
• 按这个键就可以开始了。(Press this key to start.)

Don't Say

• 我按了他的话做了。(Don't use 按 directly with 话 to mean 'following his words' — use 按照他说的 instead)

Origin & History

A pictophonetic character combining 扌 (hand radical) for meaning with 安 (peaceful) as the phonetic component. The original meaning was to press down with the hand.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal