影子 yǐngzi shadow
shadow; reflection; (figuratively) hint; indication; influence
How to remember 影子: 影 shadows + 子 child = shadow.
Characters
How it is used
- A shadow or reflection: 影子拉得很长 (yǐngzi lā de hěn cháng) the shadow stretches long; also 'a trace/hint' - 连影子都没有 (not a trace to be seen).
- Note neutral tone (yǐngzi). Figurative uses: 影子内阁 (shadow cabinet), 有他父亲的影子 (has echoes of his father).
- Everyday and literary.
Example sentences
- 他怕自己的影子。 Tāpà zìjǐ de yǐngzi.He is afraid of his own shadow.
- 她害怕自己的影子。 Tā hàipà zìjǐ de yǐngzi.She is afraid of her own shadow.