前台
qián tái · HSK 7
front desk
🛎️ 前 (front) + 台 (platform/desk) = the front desk, and a stage's front platform
前 means front and 台 means platform, stage, or counter. Together: the front platform of a theatre (proscenium, foreground) or the front counter where guests check in (reception desk).
前 — top 丷 + 一 + 月 (moon) + 刂 (knife)
Originally written 歬, depicting a foot 止 above a boat 舟, meaning to advance or go forward. Over time the form evolved and the knife radical 刂 was added, while 止 and 舟 fused into the modern shape. The core meaning 'front, before, ahead' has stayed consistent.
台 — mouth 口 + 厶 (private)
Originally depicted a raised platform or terrace, suggesting elevation and a place to stand. The character later extended to mean stage, podium, or station. In modern usage it also serves as the simplified form of 臺 (platform) and 颱 (typhoon), and names Taiwan (台灣).