标示

• Pinyin: biāo shì
• Hanzi breakdown: 标 = 木 (wood) + 示 (show); 示 = 二 + 小 — originally an altar showing something sacred

Meaning

To indicate; to mark; to show (through signs or labels).

Refers to displaying information through signs, symbols, or markers. Used for official signs, maps, instructions, and product labels. More formal than simply saying 标.

Examples

1. 地图上用红点标示了所有的景点位置。 Red dots on the map indicate the locations of all the scenic spots.
2. 药品包装上必须清楚标示成分和用法。 Medicine packaging must clearly indicate ingredients and usage.
3. 路标标示前方五百米有加油站。 The road sign indicates there's a gas station 500 meters ahead.

Usage Guide

Context: signage, labeling, mapping

Tone: instructional

Do Say

• 请标示出主要路线。(Please indicate the main route.)
• 成分必须在包装上标示清楚。(Ingredients must be clearly indicated on the packaging.)

Don't Say

• 用标示形容口头说明 (Don't use 标示 for verbal explanations — it implies visual/written marking)

Origin & History

标 (mark) + 示 (show). To mark and show.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal