掀起

掀起 means 'to lift up' or 'to raise', often used to describe the action of lifting something, such as a cover, a curtain, or even a situation. It can also metaphorically mean to spark or initiate something, like a movement or a discussion.

The character 掀 (xiān) originally meant to lift or raise, and 起 (qǐ) means to rise or start. Together, they form a verb that conveys the idea of initiating or raising something, both literally and figuratively.

In daily use, 掀起 is commonly seen in phrases like 掀起一阵风 (to stir up a storm), which refers to causing a big reaction or event. It is also used in more literal contexts, such as 掀起窗帘 (to lift the curtain). Understanding its dual meaning helps learners grasp both physical and abstract uses of the term.