以

• Pinyin: yǐ
• Hanzi breakdown: 以 = 以 (archaic form representing 'to use')

Meaning

With; by means of; in order to. As a preposition or conjunction, indicating method, purpose, or basis.

A classical function word still widely used in formal modern Chinese. Introduces the means, basis, or purpose of an action. Forms many fixed expressions and appears in formal documents, literary works, and set phrases.

Examples

1. 他以优异的成绩毕业。 He graduated with excellent grades.
2. 我们以诚信为本经营企业。 We run our business on the principle of integrity.
3. 以上就是我的全部发言。 That’s all I have to say.

Usage Guide

Context: formal writing, literature, official documents

Tone: formal

Do Say

• 以科技创新推动经济发展。(Promote economic development through technological innovation.)
• 以上内容仅供参考。(The above content is for reference only.)

Don't Say

• 我以吃饭 — incomplete; 以 requires a complete phrase structure, not isolated use before verbs

Origin & History

以 = 人 + 口 (person using mouth; archaic representation of using)

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal