加入

• Pinyin: jiā rù
• Hanzi breakdown: 加 = 力 (strength) + 口 (mouth) — to add; 入 = a pictograph of entering — to go in

Meaning

To join; to add into. Describes becoming a member of a group or adding something into a mixture.

Has two main uses: (1) joining an organization, team, or group — 加入公司 (join a company), 加入俱乐部 (join a club); (2) adding an ingredient or element into something — 加入一点盐 (add a little salt). More formal than 参加 (to participate/attend), as 加入 implies becoming a member rather than just attending.

Examples

1. 他去年加入了我们的篮球队。 He joined our basketball team last year.
2. 做汤的时候可以加入一些姜片。 You can add some ginger slices when making soup.
3. 欢迎你加入我们的团队！ Welcome to join our team!

Usage Guide

Context: social, workplace, cooking

Tone: positive

Do Say

• 我想加入这个社团。(I want to join this club.)
• 请在汤里加入少量盐。(Please add a small amount of salt to the soup.)

Don't Say

• 我加入了昨天的会议 (Don't use 加入 for attending a meeting — use 参加 for attending events; 加入 means becoming a member)

Origin & History

A compound of 加 (to add/increase) and 入 (to enter), together meaning to add oneself into or enter into a group.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal