Common Meanings
1
wǎng网
A net, web, or trap made of ropes or threads, used for catching things, such as fish or birds; figuratively, it can refer to a system of capture or control, or, when combined with other words, a lenient approach (e.g., 网开一面) or a flaw in a system that allows major wrongdoers to escape (e.g., 网漏吞舟).
这家公司对表现不佳的员工网开一面，给他们提供培训而非直接解雇。
The company showed leniency to underperforming employees, offering them training instead of direct dismissal.
To catch or ensnare with a net; to net.
渔民们今天网到了不少大虾。
The fishermen netted quite a few large shrimp today.
To be covered or spread over something like a net or a web, often referring to a network of fine lines or objects.
额头网着细密的汗珠。
Fine beads of sweat covered his forehead.
A thing shaped like a net, such as a power grid or a hair net.
渔民们用大网捕鱼。
Fishermen use big nets to catch fish.
A crisscrossing organization or system, similar to a web or network (e.g., service points, communication network).
这家快递公司的服务网点遍布全国。
This express delivery company has service points spread all over the country.
Specifically refers to computer networks or the internet, as in 'surfing the internet' or 'the internet'.
我每天都要上网查资料。
I have to go online to check information every day.