以 (yǐ)

In Chinese, "以" is a versatile word that can function as a preposition, conjunction, or verb, depending on the context. Below are detailed usages of "以".

1. As a Preposition

As a preposition, "以" indicates the means, method, or condition by which something is done or achieved. For example:

• 以书为友。 (Yǐ shū wéi yǒu.) — Make friends through books. (lit. Use books as friends.)
• 以行动证明自己。 (Yǐ xíngdòng zhèngmíng zìjǐ.) — Prove oneself through actions. (lit. Use actions to prove oneself.)

2. As a Conjunction

As a conjunction, "以" is used to indicate a condition, reason, or basis for something. For example:

• 以我所知，他已经离开了。 (Yǐ wǒ suǒ zhī, tā yǐjīng líkāile.) — From what I know, he has already left. (lit. According to what I know, he has already left.)
• 以他的智慧，这个问题不难解决。 (Yǐ tā de zhìhuì, zhège wèntí bùnán jiějué.) — With his wisdom, this problem is not difficult to solve. (lit. With his wisdom, this problem is not difficult to solve.)

3. As a Verb

As a verb, "以" means "to use" or "to regard as". It is often used in formal or literary contexts. For example:

• 以诗为酒，以词为肴。 (Yǐ shī wéi jiǔ, yǐ cí wéi yáo.) — Use poetry as wine, and words as dishes. (lit. Use poetry as wine, and words as dishes.)
• 以你为荣。 (Yǐ nǐ wéi róng.) — Regard you with honor. (lit. Regard you with honor.)