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约 has 2 dictionary pronunciations. The examples show how each reading behaves in real words.
to weigh in a balance or on a scale
to make an appointment; to invite; approximately
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approximately
to economize
appointment
booking
to agree on sth
to restrict
convention
contract
to terminate an agreement
agreement
to sign a contract or agreement
Notice where 约 sits in each complete thought.
I have an appointment at 3.
Source: Tatoeba #340644 · CC BY 2.0 FRI feel always restricted here.
Source: Tatoeba #2416132 · CC BY 2.0 FRIf you do it this way, you can save several hours.
Source: Tatoeba #9518505 · CC BY 2.0 FRI'm sorry. I have another appointment.
Source: Tatoeba #333682 · CC BY 2.0 FRHe canceled the appointment at the last moment.
Source: Tatoeba #735396 · CC BY 2.0 FRDefinitions and traditional forms are compiled from Make Me a Hanzi, HSK curriculum data, and CC-CEDICT. Sourced example sentences link to Tatoeba; editorial examples are labeled separately. Review data sources and licenses.