声

• Pinyin: shēng
• Hanzi breakdown: 声 = simplified from 聲, which contains 耳 (ear) indicating hearing

Meaning

Sound; voice; tone; measure word for sounds.

As a noun, refers to any sound or voice. As a measure word, counts individual sounds or utterances (一声枪响 - a gunshot). Appears in many compounds: 声音 (sound), 声明 (statement), 名声 (reputation). The simplified form of 聲.

Examples

1. 远处传来一声巨响，吓了大家一跳。 A loud bang came from the distance, startling everyone.
2. 她不声不响地走了，谁都没告诉。 She left without a word, not telling anyone.
3. 请大声点说，后面的人听不见。 Please speak louder — the people in the back can't hear.

Usage Guide

Context: everyday, description

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 一声不吭。(Without a sound.)
• 你刚才叫了我一声吗？(Did you just call me?)

Don't Say

• 有很多声 — as a measure word, 声 needs a numeral; use 很多声音 for 'many sounds'

Origin & History

The traditional character 聲 contains 耳 (ear) and 殸 (chime), representing sound reaching the ear.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal