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to separate; to divide
把苹果分成两半别开。
Divide the apple into two halves.
to stop; to refrain from (often used in commands or suggestions)
别担心，一切都会好起来的。
Don't worry, everything will be fine.
another; different (used to distinguish between two things)
这本书和那本书别。
This book is different from that one.
'别' is often used in informal contexts to tell someone to stop doing something, such as '别担心' (don't worry).
The meaning of '别' heavily depends on the context. Pay attention to the tone and situation to understand its intended meaning.
Derived from the Chinese character '别', which originally meant 'to separate' or 'to distinguish'. Over time, it has evolved to include meanings related to stopping or refraining from actions.
The word '别' is highly versatile and can function as a verb, adverb, or interjection depending on the context. It is commonly used in everyday speech to express commands or suggestions.