赐

• Pinyin: cì
• Hanzi breakdown: 赐 = 贝 (treasure, money) + 易 (to exchange, give)

Meaning

To bestow; to grant; to confer. A formal verb meaning to give something (usually from a superior to an inferior).

Historically used when emperors or gods gave gifts to subjects. In modern usage, appears in polite expressions like 赐教 (please teach me). The power dynamic is implied: the giver is higher in status.

Examples

1. 皇帝赐给功臣一座宅邸和大量金银。 The emperor bestowed a mansion and large amounts of gold and silver upon the meritorious official.
2. 这柄宝剑是先祖受皇帝御赐之物，代代相传。 This precious sword was imperially granted to our ancestor and has been passed down through generations.
3. 如有不当之处，还望各位专家不吝赐教。 If there are any inadequacies, I humbly hope the experts will not hesitate to offer their guidance.

Usage Guide

Context: historical, polite expressions, formal

Tone: respectful

Do Say

• 皇帝赐他黄马褂。(The emperor bestowed upon him a yellow riding jacket.)
• 请赐教。(Please enlighten me.)

Don't Say

• 我赐给朋友一杯咖啡 (赐 implies superior-to-inferior giving — for casual gifts between equals, use 送 or 给)

Origin & History

Originally composed of 貝 (shell/money) + 易 (to give/exchange). The shell component reflects ancient currency, suggesting valuable gifts.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal