Meanings of 凹
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About 凹
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Podcast: 凹
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AI Study Notes for 凹
凹 (āo) vs 凸 (tū) — choose 凹 when describing a concave shape, while 凸 refers to a convex shape.
Imagine a bowl that is 'āo' (凹) shaped, where the inside is lower than the rim. The character has a distinct outer shape that resembles the curve of a concave surface, reminding you of a hollowed-out form.
It's important to use 凹 in contexts where you specifically describe shapes or surfaces. Common mistakes include confusing it with 窪 (wā), which also refers to a depression but has different applications. Be careful with pronunciation, as misplacing the tone can change the meaning entirely.
While 凹 is not part of the official HSK levels, understanding it can enhance your vocabulary related to shapes and descriptions. Focus on recognizing and using it in descriptions of objects and landscapes to improve contextual understanding.
The concept of concavity is significant in Chinese art and architecture, where curves and hollows are often used to create harmony and balance in design. The character is also found in phrases that describe natural landscapes, reflecting the appreciation of nature.
Learners often confuse 凹 with other characters that describe similar concepts, such as 窪. For example, saying '这个地方很窪' (This place is very concave) is incorrect; instead, use '这个地方很凹'.
Pronunciation of 凹
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Etymology of 凹
Pictograph of a concavity. Opposite of 凸.
A rectangle with a hollow
Character Formation Type
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Decomposition of 凹
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Write 凹
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Practice writing 凹 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 凹
凹 functions as an adjective. In Chinese it behaves like a stative verb: place it directly after the subject without 是 (我很高，not 我是高). Use 不 to negate (不高) and pair it with 很 in plain affirmative sentences. It carries 9 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.
Complete the Sentence
他摇摇晃晃地行走在停车场____凸不平的地面上。
He staggered on the uneven surface of the car park.
Example Sentences for 凹 (10)
Cultural Notes for 凹
The concept of concavity is significant in Chinese art and architecture, where curves and hollows are often used to create harmony and balance in design. The character is also found in phrases that describe natural landscapes, reflecting the appreciation of nature.
Word Family of 凹
Compound Meaning
What does 兕 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 凹
凹 specifically refers to a concave shape, while 窪 describes a depression or hollow that may not be strictly concave.