宣 xuān to proclaim
to proclaim; to declare; to announce
How it came to be
形声 · Meaning + sound
One part gives the meaning, the other gives the sound.
The oracle bone form puts a sound part under a roof; the word first named the main hall where the emperor lived.
用法
- 宣布 (xuānbù), to announce, is used for a formal, one-time declaration: 宣布结果 (xuānbù jiéguǒ), announce the results.
- 宣传 (xuānchuán), to publicize/promote, is an ongoing activity, and is neutral in Chinese (used for marketing and campaigns), unlike the negative connotation "propaganda" often carries in English.
- 宣誓 (xuānshì), to swear an oath, is used for ceremonial pledges, e.g. taking office.
- Formal, official register throughout; not used in casual speech.