[[Characters]] #Characters \ #Abstract-Concepts \ #Properties # 歹 dǎi bad; evil ## Components [[歹 (dǎi)]] ## Meaning The character "歹" in contemporary usage generally signifies "bad" or "evil," often used in compounds to convey negative connotations. It can also denote poor health or misfortune in some contexts. For example, "歹徒" refers to criminals, and "好歹" is used to express an undesirable situation or outcome. ## History The character "歹" in ancient times depicted cracked skeletal remains, symbolizing misfortune and death. Its primary meaning is "bad" or "evil," contrasting with "good." "歹" serves as one of the radicals in Chinese characters, and words featuring this radical typically relate to "death." Additionally, "歹" can denote poor health, as seen in Cao Xueqin's "Dream of the Red Chamber," where Qin Keqing's condition fluctuates between good and bad. In modern usage, the term "好歹" is commonly used to indicate an unfortunate event or outcome, while individuals who commit crimes are often referred to as "歹徒."e ## Evolution ### Oracular Script ![[歹 ora.svg]] ### Bronze Script ? ### Seal Script ![[歹 sello.svg]] ### Clerical Script ![[歹 cle.svg]] ### Regular Script ![[歹 reg.svg]]