然
yes; so; however; suffix; surname
Meanings
6 senses · 23 examplesadjective
correct; right; yes
Commonly used in spoken and written contexts to agree with a statement.
What you said makes sense, but I don't agree with it.
The teacher nodded and said: "Quite right."
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Everyone agreed this plan was good, so it passed unanimously.
What he said is not entirely correct; you should verify it carefully.
Hearing the good news, everyone praised it unanimously.
pronoun
so; such; like this
literaryFormal or literary usage, often used in fixed phrases or written texts.
The outcome is not exactly as we thought; it's better than expected.
Knowing that something is so but not why it is so is a big mistake in learning.
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Although his methods are unorthodox, they always achieve the goal.
Everything succeeds with preparation and fails without it; that saying is exactly right.
conjunction
however; but; yet
literaryFormal literary usage, used to connect contrasting clauses.
This matter is small, but it cannot be ignored.
He worked very hard, but his grades never improved.
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It was very cold, but everyone still insisted on outdoor exercise.
This plan looks perfect, but it will face many difficulties when implemented.
He is still young, but he already has considerable prestige in the industry.
suffix
suffix for adjectives/verbs
Attached to adjectives, verbs or adverbs to form descriptive words, used in both formal and informal contexts.
A strong wind suddenly blew up, making the leaves rustle.
The train suddenly sped up, and the passengers became unsteady.
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Hearing the news of winning the award, he showed an obvious smile.
Seeing their children grow up healthily, the parents smiled happily.
The wind blew across the grassland, and the green grass swayed gently in the breeze.
noun
surname Ran
Used as a family name in China.
Mr. Ran is a senior consultant at our company.
Teacher Ran teaches ancient Chinese at the university.
verb
same as 燃; to burn; ignite
archaicAncient Chinese usage, now rarely used except in fixed classical phrases.
Light firewood to keep warm.
Light candles to wait for guests.