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March 24, 2026
堀kū(ku1)
The character 堀 (kū) primarily means 'cave' or 'hole.' It is commonly used in contexts related to excavation or natural formations, often implying a depth or hollow space. This character can also refer to artificial holes, such as ditches or moats.
Strokes11Radical土Frequency#25445DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, caves are often associated with historical significance, such as ancient dwellings or burial sites. The famous Mogao Caves, for example, are renowned for their Buddhist art and history.
Memory Tip
Imagine a giant 'K' (for kū) digging into the ground, creating a deep hole or cave. The left part of 堀 resembles a person (亻) digging, while the right part (土) represents earth. Visualize the person creating a cave in the earth, making it easier to remember the meaning and pronunciation.
Meanings of 堀
kū(ku1)
1cave, hole
Exercise 1 of 2
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About 堀
堀Simplified
11Strokes
土Radical
状态词stative word (stat.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
Podcast: 堀
Podcast: 堀
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AI Study Notes for 堀
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a giant 'K' (for kū) digging into the ground, creating a deep hole or cave. The left part of 堀 resembles a person (亻) digging, while the right part (土) represents earth. Visualize the person creating a cave in the earth, making it easier to remember the meaning and pronunciation.
Usage Notes
When using 堀 in sentences, be mindful of the context, as it often appears in technical or geographical discussions. Common collocations include 'cave system' or 'drainage hole.' Be cautious of tonal errors, as the tone of kū (fourth tone) can change the meaning if mispronounced.
HSK Study Tips
Although 堀 is not an HSK word, it connects with other HSK vocabulary related to geography and nature, such as 山 (mountain) and 河 (river). Students should focus on recognizing the character's components to better understand its meaning and usage.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, caves are often associated with historical significance, such as ancient dwellings or burial sites. The famous Mogao Caves, for example, are renowned for their Buddhist art and history.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 堀 with 洞 (dòng), which can lead to incorrect usage in contexts. For example, saying '我去堀' instead of '我去洞' when referring to going into a cave is a common error.
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Pronunciation of 堀
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Cultural Notes for 堀
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, caves are often associated with historical significance, such as ancient dwellings or burial sites. The famous Mogao Caves, for example, are renowned for their Buddhist art and history.
Word Family of 堀
Words Containing This Character1
堀kūcave
Exercise 1 of 1
Compound Meaning
What does 堀 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 堀
It is pronounced as 'kū' with a fourth tone.
It's not commonly used in casual conversation but can be found in specific contexts related to geography or construction.
Yes, characters like 洞 (dòng) also mean 'cave' or 'hole,' but with slightly different nuances.
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