怒

Core senses include anger, rage, and passion. The glyph often implies a kinetic or outward manifestation of emotion rather than a purely internal state. In medical or philosophical contexts (particularly regarding //qi//), it may refer to a physiological event—specifically a systemic disruption of energy associated with the liver.

The glyph functions as an adjective (angry, enraged), a noun (anger, wrath), or a verb (to become angry, to flare up).

Distinguish 怒 from nearby terms:

• 怒 vs. 憤 (fèn): While both involve anger, 憤 typically denotes indignation or resentment born of perceived injustice; 怒 is more raw, sudden, or towering.
• 怒 vs. 恨 (hèn): 怒 represents "hot" active rage, whereas 恨 represents "cold" deep hate, long-term resentment, or regret.

Historical tonal variations (//nǒ nò//) existed between the noun and the verb/adjective forms.