Definition
变 is the basic verb for 'change' — it is intransitive and often used with an adjective to mean 'become' (e.g. 变冷 'become cold'). 变成 specifically means 'turn into' and takes a noun result, not an adjective. 变化 focuses on the process or result as a noun/verb, while 变 is simpler and more conversational.
verb
to change (intransitive)to become (followed by an adjective or result)
Easily confused
- 弯wānlook-aliketo bend; bent
- 遍biànsound-alike(classifier) for the number of times an action is performed fully from start to finish; 'time(s)'
- 边biānsound-alikeside; edge; border; margin
- 便biànsound-alikethen; in that case (indicating a natural consequence or immediate response)
- 编biānsound-aliketo weave, to plait (e.g., hair, baskets)
- 扁biǎnsound-alikeflat
- 辩biànsound-aliketo debate, to argue, to dispute
Examples
- 变。Tiānqì biàn lěng le.The weather has turned cold.
- 变。Tā biàn pàng le.He has become fat.
- 变。Zhège chéngshì biàn piàoliang le.This city has become beautiful.
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