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March 24, 2026
坶()mǔ(mu3)
The character 坶 (mǔ) primarily refers to mud or mire, often used in contexts related to sticky or wet earth. It can also mean to paste or to plaster, suggesting the action of applying a thick, adhesive substance. This word is less common in everyday use but may appear in specific contexts, such as construction or traditional crafts.
Strokes8Radical土Frequency#—DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
In traditional Chinese architecture, mud is often used as a building material, reflecting the importance of natural elements in construction techniques. Understanding the role of mud in Chinese culture can provide insights into historical building practices.
Memory Tip
Imagine a muddy landscape where you can feel the sticky mud (坶) under your feet. The '土' (tǔ) radical signifies earth, while the '母' (mǔ) component can remind you of a 'mother' who is nurturing, just as mud nurtures the ground. Together, they create a vivid image of earth and stickiness.
Meanings of 坶
mǔ(mu3)
1mud, mire; to paste, to plaster
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About 坶
坶Simplified
Traditional
8Strokes
土Radical
非语素字non-morpheme character (n-m.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
Podcast: 坶
Podcast: 坶
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AI Study Notes for 坶
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a muddy landscape where you can feel the sticky mud (坶) under your feet. The '土' (tǔ) radical signifies earth, while the '母' (mǔ) component can remind you of a 'mother' who is nurturing, just as mud nurtures the ground. Together, they create a vivid image of earth and stickiness.
Usage Notes
When using 坶, be mindful that it is more commonly found in literary or specialized contexts rather than everyday conversation. Common collocations include phrases related to construction or the arts. Avoid confusion with similar-sounding words; ensure clear pronunciation of the third tone.
HSK Study Tips
Although 坶 is not part of the official HSK levels, it can be related to words at HSK 3 and above that deal with nature and materials. Focus on its usage in specific contexts to enhance vocabulary related to construction, art, and nature.
Cultural Note
In traditional Chinese architecture, mud is often used as a building material, reflecting the importance of natural elements in construction techniques. Understanding the role of mud in Chinese culture can provide insights into historical building practices.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 坶 with similar characters like 母 (mǔ), which means mother. For example, saying 'mud母' instead of 'mud坶' can lead to misunderstandings. Always check that you're using the correct character based on context.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 坶
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Cultural Notes for 坶
🏮Cultural insight
In traditional Chinese architecture, mud is often used as a building material, reflecting the importance of natural elements in construction techniques. Understanding the role of mud in Chinese culture can provide insights into historical building practices.
Frequently Asked Questions about 坶
It is pronounced as 'mǔ', with a falling tone.
You can use 坶 when discussing materials for construction or when describing muddy conditions.
No, it is more commonly found in specific contexts related to construction or art.
