猶

1. Comparative: Like, as, or similar to. Often suggests that something is "virtually" or "almost" like another, rather than a strict identity.

2. Persistive/Temporal: Still or yet; indicates the continuation of a state or action, often despite expectations.

3. Behavioral: To hesitate, waver, or be indecisive.

• Comparative: Typically precedes the object of comparison [猶 + Noun/Phrase].
• Adverb: Precedes the verb or adjective to indicate a persisting state.
• Verb: Functions as the main predicate meaning "to hesitate" or "to waver."

Contrast with 似 (sì): While both denote similarity, 似 often emphasizes appearance, semblance, or perceived likeness (which may be superficial). 猶 tends to describe an inherent quality or a state that persists in being similar.

Semantic variant: 猷 (U+72B9). In older contexts, there is overlap between the two; while 猶 leans toward hesitation and comparison, 猷 leans toward planning or strategy. In contexts of deliberation, they may be functionally interchangeable.