比
他比我高。
He is taller than me.
To compare (used to indicate comparison between two things or people)
这辆车比那辆车贵。
This car is more expensive than that one.
我的成绩比去年好。
My grades are better than last year's.
Used in comparative constructions with adjectives or verbs. Often paired with '还' (hái) or '更' (gèng) for emphasis.
Ratio or proportion (mathematical term)
盐与水的比是1比10。
The ratio of salt to water is 1 to 10.
利润与成本的比很高。
The profit-to-cost ratio is very high.
Commonly used in mathematics, finance, and statistics.
To compete or match (in a contest or rivalry)
我们比试一下谁跑得快。
Let's compete to see who runs faster.
他俩比了半天，不分胜负。
The two of them competed for a long time without a clear winner.
Often used in sports or playful contexts.
Metaphor or analogy (used in literary or rhetorical expressions)
他把生活比作一场马拉松。
He likened life to a marathon.
她的眼睛比星星还亮。
Her eyes are brighter than stars.
Common in poetry, speeches, and figurative language.
To gesture or mime (e.g., hand signals)
他比划着告诉我怎么走。
He gestured to me how to get there.
Often used in everyday communication when words are insufficient.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Comparative Structure
In Chinese, the structure 'A 比 B + adjective' is used for comparisons. For example, '他比我高' (He is taller than me). Remember that 比 is followed directly by the comparison term (B) and the adjective.
Gold Rule
比 in Ratios
When expressing ratios, 比 is read as 'to' or 'per'. For example, '1比10' means '1 to 10' or '1 per 10'.
Word Origin
The character 比 (bǐ) is composed of two identical 白 (bái, 'white') characters facing each other, originally depicting two people standing side by side to compare their heights. The modern meaning of 'to compare' derives from this visual representation.
Usage Notes
比 is a versatile word used in comparisons, ratios, competitions, and metaphors. It often requires a second element (e.g., an adjective, noun, or verb) to complete its meaning. In comparative sentences, it is typically followed by an adjective or verb phrase.