使唤 shǐhuan to order somebody around
to order somebody around; (colloquial) to handle (a draught animal, tool, machine etc); Taiwan pr.
How to remember 使唤: 使 use + 唤 to call = to order somebody around.
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How it is used
- To order (someone) around; to handle (a tool/animal) - 他把员工当仆人一样使唤 (tā bǎ yuángōng dàng púrén yíyàng shǐhuan) he orders his staff around like servants.
- Colloquial (light 唤); often carries a resentful tone of being bossed about.
- Also 'to operate/control': 这匹马不好使唤 (this horse is hard to handle). Contrast neutral 指挥 (zhǐhuī, to direct/command).