classifier: a thread (of cloud, smoke etc), a bit, an iota, a hint (of sth) etc
HSK 7, unknown, 5 strokes, radical 一, rank #1472, Hard
sī(si1) T1
1silk
2thread
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March 24, 2026
丝(絲)sī(si1)
The character 丝 (sī) primarily means 'silk' or 'thread'. It is commonly used to refer to fine threads in textiles and can also denote a trace or hint of something, such as a small amount of a feeling or idea. In various contexts, it can imply delicacy or subtlety.
Strokes5Radical一Frequency#1472DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
Silk has significant historical and cultural importance in China, being a key product along the ancient Silk Road, which facilitated trade and cultural exchange. The production of silk is deeply rooted in Chinese heritage, symbolizing luxury and refinement.
Memory Tip
Imagine a soft, flowing thread of silk that glimmers in the light. The character 丝 resembles a flowing thread, with the top suggesting the delicate nature of silk. Think of 's' in 'silk' to remember the pronunciation.
Meanings of 丝
sī(si1)
1silk
2thread
Exercise 1 of 2
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 丝
丝Simplified
絲Traditional
5Strokes
一Radical
数词shùcínumeral (num.)Part of Speech
#1472Frequency Rank
条Measure Word
HSK 3.0L7AdvancedCEFRC2
Podcast: 丝
Podcast: 丝
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AI Study Notes for 丝
Quick Contrast
丝 (sī) vs 线 (xiàn) — use 丝 for fine, delicate threads like silk, while 线 refers to thicker or more general lines and threads.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a soft, flowing thread of silk that glimmers in the light. The character 丝 resembles a flowing thread, with the top suggesting the delicate nature of silk. Think of 's' in 'silk' to remember the pronunciation.
Usage Notes
Be cautious with the tone; the first tone (sī) is essential as using the wrong tone could change the meaning. This character often appears in phrases related to textiles or delicate matters, so it's useful in both casual and formal contexts.
HSK Study Tips
丝 is not part of the HSK vocabulary but connects to related words like 线 (xiàn, line/thread) and 布 (bù, cloth). Focus on its use in phrases and idiomatic expressions to enhance your vocabulary around textiles and subtle references.
Cultural Note
Silk has significant historical and cultural importance in China, being a key product along the ancient Silk Road, which facilitated trade and cultural exchange. The production of silk is deeply rooted in Chinese heritage, symbolizing luxury and refinement.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 丝 (sī) with similar-sounding characters, like 思 (sī, to think). For example, saying '我喜欢丝' (wǒ xǐhuān sī, I like to think) instead of '我喜欢丝绸' (wǒ xǐhuān sīchóu, I like silk) can lead to misunderstandings.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 丝
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Grammar Patterns of 丝
丝 functions as a number. It almost always combines with a measure word before a noun (三个人, 五本书). Standalone numbers are rare outside of math or counting. It carries 6 related meanings, each with its own usage notes below. The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.
Berg tilts his head and a mischievous look crosses his face.
Cultural Notes for 丝
🏮Cultural insight
Silk has significant historical and cultural importance in China, being a key product along the ancient Silk Road, which facilitated trade and cultural exchange. The production of silk is deeply rooted in Chinese heritage, symbolizing luxury and refinement.
🌏Cross-cultural Insight
While silk is celebrated in both Chinese and Western cultures, its historical significance in trade and luxury is particularly pronounced in China, where it is seen as a cultural treasure.
Word Family of 丝
Compounds2
咝si1onomatopoetic, a hissing sound
鸶si1the eastern egret
Words Containing This Character18
丝sīsilk絲
粉丝fěnsībean vermicelli粉絲
丝毫sīháoa bit絲毫
丝绸sīchóusilk絲綢
螺丝luósīscrew螺絲
丝袜stockings絲襪
钢丝steel wire鋼絲
丝带ribbon絲帶
蛛丝马迹traces蛛絲馬跡
爱丽丝Alice (name)愛麗絲
铁丝网wire netting鐵絲網
一丝不苟yìsībùgǒumeticulous一絲不苟
丝巾headscarf絲巾
铁丝iron wire鐵絲
丝绸之路the Silk Road絲綢之路
螺丝刀screwdriver螺絲刀
真丝silk真絲
丝线thread絲線
Exercise 1 of 4
Compound Meaning
What does 咝 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 丝
While 丝 (sī) is primarily associated with textiles like silk and thread, its usage extends to metaphorical expressions and classifications in the language. For example, it can describe threads of smoke or clouds, which broadens its application beyond just physical fabrics.
丝 (sī) has several meanings in Chinese, including 'silk', 'thread', and 'classifier for thin items'. It can indicate a small amount or hint of something, making it versatile in both literal and figurative contexts. Understanding these nuances can help in grasping the richness of the language.
You can use 丝 (sī) in sentences to describe materials or qualities related to silk or threads. For example, '这条丝很柔软' means 'This silk is very soft.' It can also be used metaphorically, such as '他心里有丝疑虑' meaning 'He has a trace of doubt in his heart.'
丝 (sī) primarily means 'silk' or 'thread' in Chinese. It can also refer to a trace or a bit of something, such as a hint of a feeling. Additionally, it serves as a classifier for thin items like threads of cloud or smoke.
It is pronounced as 'sī', with a high, level tone.
Common phrases include 丝绸 (sīchóu, silk) and 一丝 (yīsī, a trace or a hint).
Yes, it can be used when discussing textiles, emotions, or in poetic expressions.
