启发 (qǐ fā) is a verb meaning 'to inspire' or 'to enlighten' — it describes the act of stimulating someone’s thinking, awakening insight, or sparking new understanding. The character 启 means 'to open' or 'to begin', suggesting the removal of mental barriers; 发 means 'to emit', 'to bring forth', or 'to develop', implying the emergence of ideas or awareness. Together, they convey the idea of 'opening up and bringing forth understanding' — not just giving information, but helping another person discover knowledge or creativity for themselves.

This word is commonly used in educational, artistic, and reflective contexts: teachers启发 students’ curiosity, a poem may启发 deep reflection, or a personal experience might启发 a life change. It carries a positive, respectful connotation — the person being启发 is seen as capable of growth, and the one doing the启发 acts as a catalyst rather than an authority. It’s more formal and thoughtful than casual words like 鼓励 (to encourage) and implies intellectual or emotional awakening.