Meanings of 匕
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 匕
Podcast: 匕
Podcast: 匕
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI Study Notes for 匕
Imagine a sharp dagger forming the shape of the character 匕. The horizontal line at the top resembles the handle of a knife, while the vertical stroke can represent the blade. Picture a chef using this ancient spoon to serve soup, making it easier to remember that 匕 relates to both spoons and knives.
While 匕 is not frequently used in everyday conversation, it is important in historical and literary contexts. Learners may confuse it with similar characters such as 刀 (dāo), which means 'knife'. It's crucial to note that 匕 has a more specific meaning related to ancient utensils.
Although not part of the HSK levels, learning 匕 can help students understand characters related to utensils and weapons. Students should focus on recognizing its form and usage in historical texts to build a broader vocabulary related to tools and instruments.
In ancient China, utensils like the ladle represented the sophistication of dining culture, reflecting social status and culinary practices. The use of 匕 in ancient texts showcases the importance of proper tools in food preparation and serving.
Learners often confuse 匕 with 刀 due to their similar meanings. For example, saying '我用匕切东西' (I use a spoon to cut things) is incorrect; instead, it should be '我用刀切东西' (I use a knife to cut things).
Pronunciation of 匕
Drill the tone of 匕 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
Etymology of 匕
Pictograph of a ladle.
A spoon
Character Formation Type
What type of character formation is 匕?
Decomposition of 匕
Identify the Components
Which of these is a component of 匕?
Write 匕
New here? to save your writing progress and earn XP.
Practice writing 匕 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 匕
匕 functions as a noun — it names a person, place, thing, or concept. Place it as a subject before the verb (主+谓) or as an object after the verb (谓+宾). Most Chinese nouns require a measure word between the number and the noun (e.g. 一个/三本). It carries 3 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
他拔出____首转身面向追他的人。
He drew his dagger and turned to face his pursuers.
Example Sentences for 匕 (2)
Cultural Notes for 匕
In ancient China, utensils like the ladle represented the sophistication of dining culture, reflecting social status and culinary practices. The use of 匕 in ancient texts showcases the importance of proper tools in food preparation and serving.
Word Family of 匕
Compound Meaning
What does 匕首 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 匕
In modern usage, 匕 primarily refers to a type of spoon or ladle, though it can also imply a dagger or knife.