Definition
授命 is a formal or literary verb-object compound (离合词) with two distinct meanings: 'to give orders' and 'to offer one's life (sacrifice)'. When used as a separable verb, you can insert 了, 过, or measure words between 授 and 命, e.g., 授了命 ('gave the order'). It's typical in political, military, or classical contexts.
v.o.
to give orders (formal)to offer one's lifeto sacrifice (literary)
Examples
- 授命。Zǒngtǒng shòu mìng zǒnglǐ zǔzhī xīn zhèngfǔ.The president ordered the prime minister to form a new government.
- ，。Shàngjí shòu le yí cì mìng, yāoqiú lìjí xíngdòng.The superior gave an order once, demanding immediate action.
- 授命。Zhànshìmen juéxīn wèi guó shòu mìng.The soldiers resolved to offer their lives for the country.
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