加
jiā
The English word 'plus' can be translated into Mandarin as 加 (jiā).
加 is used in mathematical expressions to mean 'plus' between numbers. It can also be used to mean 'and also', 'in addition' or 'besides'.
Meaning: And also, in addition, besides (which). (conj)
Which one should you use?
The single word 加 is used for mathematical addition, while the compound form 加上 is often used as a conjunction to mean 'plus' or 'in addition to' when connecting clauses or phrases.
How do you pronounce it?
jiā
Did you know?
- The phrase 加油 literally means 'add oil' and is the universal cheer for 'go for it' or 'keep going' during sports and exams.
- In modern Chinese digital culture, 加 is used as shorthand for 'adding' someone as a friend on social media platforms like WeChat.
- Ancient interpretations of 加 suggest it could mean to 'slander' or 'exaggerate', combining 'strength' and 'mouth' to describe forceful speech.
Examples in context
- 一加二等于三。One plus two equals three.This sentence shows how to use 加 in a basic mathematical expression.Tatoeba #475764 by biglion, translation #475773 by biglion
- 防水功能可以加分。Waterproof features would be a plus.This sentence demonstrates how 加 can be used to mean a 'plus' or an added benefit.Tatoeba #13190504 by LeviHighway, translation #13190388 by Nuel
- 二加三加四的和是九。The sum of two plus three plus four is nine.This sentence shows how to use 加 to connect multiple numbers in a sum.Tatoeba #13124237 by LeviHighway, translation #72909 by CM
- 5 加上 3 等于 85 plus 3 equals 8
- 2 加 2 等于 42 plus 2 equals 4
- 6 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Zhiqiang and Jiayi are discussing what to buy for a party.
- 志强 Zhiqiang我们要买薯片加可乐。Wǒmen yào mǎi shǔpiàn jiā kělè.We need to buy potato chips plus cola.
- 佳怡 Jiayi还要买水果吗？Hái yào mǎi shuǐguǒ ma?Do we need to buy fruit too?
- 志强 Zhiqiang对，西瓜加葡萄吧。Duì, xīguā jiā pútáo ba.Yes, watermelon plus grapes.
- 佳怡 Jiayi没问题，我这就去买。Méi wèntí, wǒ zhè jiù qù mǎi.No problem, I'll go buy them now.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries 加, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
