Meanings of 奴
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About 奴
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Podcast: 奴
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AI Study Notes for 奴
奴 (nú) vs 仆 (pú) — use 奴 (nú) when referring to a slave or someone in servitude with a connotation of lack of autonomy, while 仆 (pú) is more neutral, referring to a servant or attendant.
This term is generally considered formal and can be sensitive, so use it cautiously. It often appears in phrases like '奴隶' (núlì), meaning 'slave,' which is more common in discussions about history or literature. Be careful not to confuse it with similar-sounding words that have different meanings.
Although 奴 is not part of current HSK levels, it connects with other words like 奴隶 (núlì) and serves as a good example of how characters can combine to form more complex meanings. Focus on recognizing the character in historical texts or discussions about social issues.
Learners often confuse 奴 with similar terms like 仆 or 佣 (yōng), which refer to different kinds of servants. Always clarify the context to avoid misinterpretation; for example, using 奴 in a casual conversation may come off as disrespectful.
Pronunciation of 奴
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Jason Explains 奴 to You
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Etymology of 奴
Depicts a hand behind a woman slave's back forcing her to work.
A woman 女 standing by her master's right hand 又; 女 also provides the pronunciation
Origin
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Decomposition of 奴
Parts
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How to say slave in Chinese
“slave” in Chinese is奴
The character 奴 (nú) primarily means 'slave' or 'servant.' It is often used in historical contexts to refer to individuals in servitude, but it can also imply a lack of autonomy. In modern usage, it can carry negative connotations depending on the context, especially when discussing freedom and rights.
When to use 奴
This term is generally considered formal and can be sensitive, so use it cautiously. It often appears in phrases like '奴隶' (núlì), meaning 'slave,' which is more common in discussions about history or literature. Be careful not to confuse it with similar-sounding words that have different meanings.
奴 or something close to it
奴 (nú) vs 仆 (pú) — use 奴 (nú) when referring to a slave or someone in servitude with a connotation of lack of autonomy, while 仆 (pú) is more neutral, referring to a servant or attendant.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 奴 with similar terms like 仆 or 佣 (yōng), which refer to different kinds of servants. Always clarify the context to avoid misinterpretation; for example, using 奴 in a casual conversation may come off as disrespectful.
Write 奴
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Practice writing 奴 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 奴
奴 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 2 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.
Fill the gap
Type the missing word. Pinyin works; then pick the character.
他们呼吁当局将蓄____定为一种应该受到惩罚的罪行。
They called on the authorities to make slavery a punishable offence.
Common Confusions with 奴
Similar shape but different meaning; 女 means female.
Which one
Which one means “slave”?
Example Sentences for 奴 (3)
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Word Family of 奴
Characters with 奴
What does 努 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 奴
Yes, while it's less common in everyday conversation, it may still appear in literature or discussions about historical topics.
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