XIAN-4

('xian' in the fourth tone)

There are some 80 standard Chinese characters that have a 'xian' pronunciation. Major sound-indicating components are: 见 (7 occurences),  先 (8), 佥 (6)

现 = present

现在 = xian(4)zai(4) = now

As in any language, there are, in Chinese, too, many possibilities to express 'at the present time'. But 现在 is the standard term for 'now'.

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现代 = xian(4)dai(4) = modern, contemorary

代 = dai(4) = generation (age group, not as in 'power generation'), times, dynasty

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线 = a line, a wire

The single-character word can be used, for example for a line drawn on a piece of paper.

For a bus line, a two-character word would be used:

路线 = lu(4) xian(4) = bus line

However, when a number is added, just 路 is enough:

五二路 = wu(3)shi(2)er(4) lu(4) = Line 52

十一路 = shi(2)yi(1) lu(4) = Line 11; because the number 11 is written in Chinese 'Arabic' just as two vertical lines, '11' is an euphemism for two legs, and thus, 'Line 11' is an euphemism for 'walking'

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电线 = dian(4)xian(4) = electric wire

在线 = zai(4)xian(4) = online

For a string to wrap a parcel, 线 is not used:

绳子 = sheng(2)zi(-) = a string

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限 = limit, to restrict

有限 = you(3)xian(4) = limited

有限公司 = you(3)xian(4) gong(1)si(1) = limited company

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Inscription on Chinese train tickets:

限乘当日当次车 = xian(4) cheng(2) dang(1) ri(4) dang(1) ci(4) che(1) = Restricted to ride just at the day and just on the train numbered