入

• Pinyin: rù
• Hanzi breakdown: 入 = pictograph of an arrow entering a target or doorway

Meaning

To enter; to join; to put into. A formal verb indicating movement into a space, organization, or state.

A classical and literary variant of 进入. Frequently appears in compound words like 入口 (entrance), 入门 (introduction), 入睡 (to fall asleep), and 加入 (to join). Used more in written language and formal contexts than in casual conversation where 进 is preferred.

Examples

1. 他从侧门入场，没有引起太多注意。 He entered through the side door without attracting much attention.
2. 随着年龄增长，她入睡越来越困难。 As she gets older, falling asleep has become increasingly difficult.
3. 这本书是编程入门的好教材。 This book is a good textbook for getting started with programming.

Usage Guide

Context: written, compounds, literary

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 请从正门入场。(Please enter through the main entrance.)
• 他正式入职了。(He officially joined the company.)

Don't Say

• 口语中单独用'入'显得太文言 (Using 入 alone in conversation sounds too classical — say 进去 or 进入 instead)

Origin & History

Pictograph depicting a shape entering an opening or space. One of the oldest Chinese characters, dating back to oracle bone inscriptions.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal