改良
gǎiliáng · HSK 7
improve
🛠️ 改 = change/alter + 良 = good → change for the better
改 means to alter or revise; 良 means good or fine. Together they form a compound meaning to change something into a better state — to improve or ameliorate.
改 — 己 (self) + 攴/攵 (action/strike)
改 is a compound of 己 'self' and 攵 (the action radical, originally a hand holding a stick). The image is of striking or applying force to oneself or one's situation, suggesting reform or correction. From this came the modern meaning 'to change, alter, correct'.
良 — pictograph of a covered grain hopper
良 originated as a pictograph of a funnel-shaped device used to clean or sift grain, with a top opening, central body, and bottom outlet. From this image of selecting good grain, the meaning extended to 'fine,' 'good,' or 'excellent.' The modern shape obscures the original object.