持

• Pinyin: chí
• Hanzi breakdown: 持 = 扌(hand) + 寺 (temple, phonetic) = to hold/maintain

Meaning

To hold; to grasp; to maintain; to persist. Also used in compounds for various meanings.

A versatile verb used in many compounds: 坚持 (persist), 保持 (maintain), 持续 (continue), 支持 (support). As a standalone verb, often means physically holding something or maintaining a state.

Examples

1. 他手持话筒，开始了演讲。 Holding the microphone, he began his speech.
2. 请持有效证件入场。 Please enter with valid identification.
3. 她对这件事持保留意见。 She holds reserved opinions on this matter.

Usage Guide

Context: holding, maintaining, opinions

Tone: formal

Do Say

• 持不同意见也是可以的。(It's okay to hold different opinions.)
• 请持票入场。(Please enter with your ticket.)

Don't Say

• 我持苹果 (For casual 'holding,' use 拿 or 拿着; 持 is more formal)

Origin & History

The character shows 手 (hand) + 寺 (temple, phonetic), suggesting holding something in hand.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal