Xu Collection, Upper Volume. Radical: Metal (jīn). 27 strokes. Page 1300, Entry 01. Pronounced zuan. According to the Analytical Dictionary of Characters (Shuowen Jiezi), it is a tool used for boring holes. In the History of the Former Han (Qianhan Shu), Treatise on Law: Next is the use of the drill and chisel. The commentary states that the drill refers to the punishment of removing the kneecaps. Yan Shigu states that the drill is used to remove the prisoner's kneecap bone. In the Records of the Grand Historian (Shiji), Treatise on Rites: Applying the drill like the stinger of a bee or scorpion. The commentary states that the drill refers to spears, arrows, and arrowheads. According to the Correct Meaning of Characters (Zhengzitong), the diamond grows at the bottom of the water. Its shape resembles a stalactite, and its texture is similar to amethyst. Only the antelope horn from the high stone mountains of Annam can shatter it. According to the Broad Rhymes (Guangyun), it means to prick or pierce. In the Er Ya, Explanation of Trees: The wild pear is called the drill. In the Zhuangzi, External Things: The wisdom of the divine tortoise can divine seventy-two times without omission or error, yet it cannot avoid the calamity of having its belly slit open. Thus, wisdom also has its moments of distress, and the divine also has things it cannot reach. It is also used figuratively for anyone who delves deeply into study. In the Analects (Lunyu): The more one delves into it, the more profound it seems. In the Preface to the Er Ya: I have immersed myself in study and exploration to the utmost for eighteen years. In Ban Gu's Reply to the Guest's Ridicule: Shang Yang relied on three strategies to worm his way into the favor of Duke Xiao. The commentary states that the three strategies of the imperial way, the way of the hegemon, and the way of strengthening the state, use the character for drill in the sense of ensuring one enters the heart of the ruler. Pronounced suan. The meaning is the same. According to the Six Books' Origins (Liushu Gu): When read in the departing tone, it refers to the tool for boring holes. Using it to penetrate an object is called drilling, and is read in the level tone. According to the Correct Meaning of Characters (Zhengzitong): I note that when using a chisel to carve wood, both are read in the tone of zuo. I have never heard of the chisel as a tool having one pronunciation and the act of chiseling having another. The same applies to the character for drill. To insist on dividing it into level and departing tones is to be overly pedantic.