入 (rù), meaning “to enter” or “to go in,” is a simple yet powerful character with an origin that visually captures this action.

Here’s a breakdown of its evolution:

• Pictogram: The earliest form of 入 was a pictogram depicting an arrowhead pointing downwards. This symbolized the act of entering or penetrating something, like an arrow entering a target.

This basic visual representation of entering has led to a variety of related meanings:

• To enter: This is the most common meaning, indicating movement into a space or a group.
• To join: This implies becoming a member of a group or organization.
• To become a part of: This suggests being included or incorporated into something.
• Income: This meaning likely arose from the idea of money or resources “entering” one’s possession.
• To agree/consent: This usage might be connected to the idea of an idea or proposal “entering” one’s mind and being accepted.

The character 入 is used in numerous words and phrases to express these meanings:

• 进入 (jìnrù): To enter, to go into
• 加入 (jiārù): To join, to become a member of
• 收入 (shōurù): Income
• 入门 (rùmén): To enter a door, to begin learning something

The simplicity and clarity of 入 make it a versatile and essential character in Chinese. Its pictogram origin makes it easy to visualize its core meaning, and its extended meanings reflect the diverse ways in which the concept of “entering” can be applied in language and thought.