chā
verb HSK 5 #2,101

Meanings

  1. 1 to insert; to stick in
  2. 2 to interpose; to cut in (a conversation)

Characters

(hand) + right component — inserting something with the hand

Examples

Bǎ yàoshi chā jìn suǒ lǐ.
Insert the key into the lock.
Huāpíng lǐ chā zhe jǐ duǒ huā.
A few flowers are arranged in the vase.
Bié chāzuǐ, ràng tā shuō wán.
Don't interrupt, let him finish.
Bǎ chōngdiànqì chā shàng.
Plug in the charger.

Tips

usage
插嘴 (chāzuǐ) = to interrupt/cut into a conversation (literally 'insert mouth'). 插队 (chāduì) = to cut in line — very frowned upon!
memory
The hand radical on the left shows it's an action done with the hand — sticking something in.

Stroke Order

chā