How to Say
How to Write
niǎn
Meaning: to play tricks on or toy with
💡 Think 'nigh' (close) + 'annoy' — you're close to annoying someone by tricking them.
Compounds

📚 Character Story & Explanation

撚 (niǎn) meaning in English —

撚 (niǎn) means 'to play tricks on' or 'to toy with'. It often implies teasing, manipulating, or fooling someone in a mischievous way. In Chinese culture, it carries a negative connotation of taking advantage of someone's naivety. This aligns with Western concepts like 'gaslighting' or 'string someone along'. It's less severe than outright deception but suggests unfair play.

💬 Example Sentences

Common Compounds

Similar Characters — Don't Mix These Up

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