搬

• Pinyin: bān
• Hanzi breakdown: 搬 = 扌(hand) + 般 (general, phonetic component)

Meaning

To move; to carry; to transport. Refers to moving objects from one place to another, often heavy items.

Used for physically moving objects, especially heavy or bulky ones. Also used in compounds like 搬家 (to move house) and 搬运 (to transport). Implies some effort in the moving process.

Examples

1. 请帮我搬一下这个箱子。 Please help me move this box.
2. 工人们正在搬桌子和椅子。 The workers are moving tables and chairs.
3. 这个柜子太重了，一个人搬不动。 This cabinet is too heavy; one person can't move it.

Usage Guide

Context: moving, physical work, everyday

Tone: casual

Do Say

• 你能帮我搬一下这些东西吗？(Can you help me move these things?)
• 他把行李搬到了车上。(He moved the luggage into the car.)

Don't Say

• 搬一杯水 (Don't use 搬 for light objects like a cup of water — use 拿 or 端 instead; 搬 implies heavy or bulky items)

Origin & History

Originally written with a meaning related to transporting heavy items. The character combines 扌(hand) with a phonetic component.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal