Looking up...
沿
yán
What does "沿" mean in English?
along, follow, according to我们沿着河岸散步。
We walked along the riverbank.
How to use "沿" correctly: definitions and examples in English?
general
To follow a path or route, typically in a linear direction.
沿着这条路走，你会到达火车站。
Follow this road, and you will reach the train station.
Commonly used with the preposition '着' (zhe) to indicate direction.
general
To adhere to or follow a rule, principle, or guideline.
我们必须沿着公司的规定办事。
We must follow the company's regulations.
Often used in formal or official contexts.
general
To trace or outline the edge or boundary of something.
沿着这条线画一条直线。
Draw a straight line along this line.
Used in both literal and metaphorical senses.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Directional Usage
When '沿' is used with '着', it indicates direction, similar to 'along' in English.
Gold Rule
Prepositional Use
'沿' can function as a preposition meaning 'along' or 'according to'.
Word Origin
Derived from the character '沿', which depicts the idea of following a path or edge.
Usage Notes
The character '沿' is often used in combination with other words to form compounds, such as '沿海' (coastal) and '沿途' (along the way). It can function as a preposition or a verb depending on the context.
Word Breakdown
沿
to follow or trace
root汉英词典