Common Meanings
1
huá划
To cut, scratch, or draw a line on an object with a knife or other sharp tool.
他一不小心在手上划了一道口子。
He accidentally made a cut on his hand.
To propel a boat through water using oars or paddles; to row or paddle a boat.
夏天的时候，我们喜欢在湖上划船。
In summer, we enjoy rowing boats on the lake.
To calculate whether something is worthwhile or cost-effective; to weigh the pros and cons based on benefit.
这个方案不划算，我们得重新考虑。
This plan is not cost-effective; we need to reconsider it.
2
huà划
To divide, delineate, or partition (e.g., '划分' to divide into parts, '划界' to demarcate a boundary). It can also refer to something 'epoch-making' or 'revolutionary' (e.g., '划时代意义' epoch-making significance).
老师把学生们划分为几个小组进行讨论。
The teacher divided the students into several groups for discussion.
To design, plan, scheme, or strategize; often used in compounds like '筹划' (chóuhuà - to plan, to scheme) or '策划' (cèhuà - to plan, to plot).
我们需要精心筹划这次活动，确保顺利进行。
We need to meticulously plan this event to ensure it proceeds smoothly.