凭
píng · HSK 5
based on
凭 píng sounds like 'ping' — rely on the ping of evidence
凭 means 'based on / according to' (relying on something as proof). Sound hook: píng ≈ English 'ping' — a ping of evidence you lean on. Components: 任 (rely) over 几 (table) — leaning on a table for support.
凭 — 任 (rèn) phonetic + 几 (jī) table/bench
Originally written 凴 with 任 as phonetic over 几 (a low table or armrest), depicting leaning on something for support. The modern form 凭 simplifies the top to 任. Core meanings extended from 'to lean on' to 'rely on,' 'based on,' and 'evidence/proof.'