Meaning of 指示
Definitions from CC-CEDICT.
- to point out
- to indicate
- to instruct
- directives
- instructions
Measure word: 個|个
How to use 指示
指示 is a fairly formal word. It is often used for orders or directions from a boss, a leader, or a sign. Example: 请按照经理的指示去做。(Qǐng ànzhào jīnglǐ de zhǐshì qù zuò.) Please do it according to the manager's instructions.
指 (zhǐ) means to point with a finger, as in 手指 (shǒuzhǐ, finger), and 示 (shì) means to show. Pointing and showing someone what to do gives you 指示, an instruction.
Common mistake: Learners often mix up 指示 with 表示 (biǎoshì). 表示 means to express a feeling or opinion, while 指示 means to direct or instruct someone. Also watch the tone: 指 is third tone (zhǐ), not first tone like 知 (zhī).
指示 in example sentences
Real sentences from the Tatoeba project, with pinyin and English.
Stroke order for each character
Open a character for its meaning, components and more words.
指 zhǐ · finger · 9 strokes
- 1
- 2
- 3
- 4
- 5
- 6
- 7
- 8
- 9
示 shì · altar · 5 strokes
- 1
- 2
- 3
- 4
- 5
Related words
Words that share a character with 指示.
| 表示 | biǎoshì | (of sb) to express; to state; to show; (of sth) to indicate; to signify; to show |
| 显示 | xiǎnshì | to show; to illustrate |
| 手指 | shǒuzhǐ | finger |
| 指导 | zhǐdǎo | to guide; to direct; to instruct; coach; trainer |
| 指出 | zhǐchū | to indicate; to point out |
| 指挥 | zhǐhuī | to conduct; to command |
| 暗示 | ànshì | to hint; to suggest; hint; suggestion |
| 展示 | zhǎnshì | to reveal; to display; to show; to exhibit |
| 指责 | zhǐzé | to criticize; to find fault with |
| 提示 | tíshì | to point out; to remind (sb of sth) |
| 指甲 | zhǐjia | fingernail |
| 示范 | shìfàn | to demonstrate; to show how to do sth |
Questions about 指示
What does 指示 mean?
指示 (zhǐshì) means "to point out; to indicate" and is used as a noun and verb.
How do you write 指示?
指示 is made of 2 characters: 指 (9 strokes), 示 (5 strokes). That is 14 strokes in total.
Is 指示 an HSK word?
Yes. 指示 is on the HSK 5 vocabulary list of the HSK 3.0 standard.
What is the difference between 指示 and 指导?
指示 is a direction or order, usually given from above, and the focus is on what to do. 指导 (zhǐdǎo) means to guide or coach, with more ongoing help and teaching.
Can 指示 be used for signs or lights, not just people?
Yes. It can describe things that indicate something, as in 指示灯 (zhǐshìdēng, indicator light) or 指示牌 (zhǐshìpái, signpost).