迫

迫 icon

approach, compel

迫 is composed of the radical 辵 (walk, movement) and 白 (white). 辵 signifies walking, while 白 is a pictograph depicting a mouth with bared teeth, implying the opening and closing of teeth, signifying convergence or meeting. Thus, 迫 refers to approaching or drawing near. Additionally, because teeth are sharp, 迫 also carries the meaning of threat or coercion.

Vocabulary of 迫

  • 逼迫 (coerce)
  • 迫切 (urgent)
  • 迫害 (persecution)

Related Characters: