Wu Collection, Middle Volume Radical: Sickness (bù) Entry: Chou Kangxi Stroke Count: 16 Page 779, Entry 21 Pronounced chou. According to the Explaining Graphs and Analyzing Characters (Shuowen Jiezi), it refers to recovering from an illness. Xu states: It means to suddenly recover, as if the illness has been pulled away. In the Book of Documents (Shujing), specifically the Charge to Yue, it is written: If, when the medicine is taken, it does not cause dizziness, the illness will not be cured. In the Book of Odes (Shijing), specifically the Odes of Zheng, it is written: Having seen the gentleman, how could one not be cured? The Commentary states: Chou means to recover from an illness. In the Zuo Tradition (Zuo Zhuan), in the thirteenth year of Duke Zhao, it is written: Serving the states of Qi and Chu, what benefit is there for the state of Jin? The Commentary notes: Here, chou means to improve. It also refers to reduction or loss. In the Discourses of Jin (Jinyu), it is written: If the ruler does not assess the situation before celebrating, what benefit is there to the state from the invasion of a great power? The Commentary notes: Here, chou means reduction or loss. Also, according to the Collection of Rhymes (Jiyun), pronounced liao. The meaning is the same.