指着

• Pinyin: zhǐ zhe
• Hanzi breakdown: 指 = 扌 (hand) + 旨 (purpose); 着 = 羊 (sheep) + 目 (eye) simplified

Meaning

Pointing at; gesturing towards with a finger.

The verb 指 (point) with the aspect particle 着, indicating an ongoing action of pointing. Used to describe directing attention to something or someone by pointing. Can also be used figuratively for depending on or relying on someone.

Examples

1. 他指着远处的高楼说，那就是我们公司的总部。 He pointed at the tall building in the distance and said, 'That's our company's headquarters.
2. 老师指着黑板上的公式，耐心地给学生讲解。 The teacher pointed at the formula on the blackboard and patiently explained it to the students.
3. 你不能一辈子指着父母养活你。 You can't rely on your parents to support you your whole life.

Usage Guide

Context: description, narration, daily life

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 她指着窗外说，看，下雪了！(She pointed out the window and said, 'Look, it's snowing!')
• 别指着人说话，不礼貌。(Don't point at people while talking — it's impolite.)

Don't Say

• 我指着很开心。(Incorrect — 指着 needs an object)

Origin & History

Combination of 指 (point with finger) and 着 (aspect particle indicating continuous action or state).

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal