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March 24, 2026
威wēi(wei1)
The character 威 (wēi) refers to power, might, or prestige, often associated with authority or dominance. It is commonly used in contexts that denote strength, influence, or high status, such as in phrases describing someone's reputation or social standing.
Strokes9Radical女Frequency#4616DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, power and prestige (威) are often associated with social hierarchy and respect for authority figures, which is reflected in traditional values and modern business practices.
Memory Tip
Imagine a mighty warrior (威) standing tall with a crown, symbolizing power and prestige. The character looks like a strong figure with a 'roof' (the top part) representing authority. Remember '威' as the 'way' to power and respect.
Meanings of 威
wēi(wei1)
1power
2might
Exercise 1 of 3
Listen & Choose the Meaning
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About 威
威Simplified
9Strokes
女Radical
地名míngcíplace name (p.n.)Part of Speech
#4616Frequency Rank
Podcast: 威
Podcast: 威
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AI Study Notes for 威
Quick Contrast
威 (wēi) vs 势 (shì) — use 威 for a focus on power or prestige, while 势 emphasizes influence or potential.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a mighty warrior (威) standing tall with a crown, symbolizing power and prestige. The character looks like a strong figure with a 'roof' (the top part) representing authority. Remember '威' as the 'way' to power and respect.
Usage Notes
Be mindful of the context when using 威, as it can imply a sense of intimidation if used incorrectly. It is generally used in formal contexts and is often seen in compounds like 威望 (prestige) or 威武 (majestic). Avoid using it casually among friends.
HSK Study Tips
While 威 is not part of the official HSK vocabulary, it is relevant for learners at HSK 5 and above due to its usage in formal contexts. Focus on recognizing it in compound words and phrases to better understand its connotation of strength and authority.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, power and prestige (威) are often associated with social hierarchy and respect for authority figures, which is reflected in traditional values and modern business practices.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 威 with other characters for power, such as 力 (lì, strength), leading to incorrect phrases like 威力 instead of 威望. Remember that 威 specifically emphasizes authority and prestige.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 威
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Grammar Patterns of 威
威 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 4 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.
The deal marks a turnaround in the fortunes of South Wales Electricity.
10
他叫我们滚蛋，于是我们威胁他的孩子。
tā jiào wǒ mén gǔn dàn， ， yú shì wǒ mén wēi xié tā de hái。
He told us to get stuffed so we leaned on his kid.
Cultural Notes for 威
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, power and prestige (威) are often associated with social hierarchy and respect for authority figures, which is reflected in traditional values and modern business practices.
Word Family of 威
Compounds10
崴wai3high, lofty, precipitous; to sprain
揻
葳wei1flourishing; luxuriant
蝛
喴
媙
楲
縅
隇
鰄
Words Containing This Character20
威胁wēixiéto threaten威脅
威wēipower
权威quánwēiauthority權威
威力wēilìmight
威士忌whiskey (loanword)
威廉William or Wilhelm (name)
夏威夷Hawaii, US state
示威shìwēia demonstration
杜威Dewey (name)
挪威Norway
威尼斯Venice
威利Wylie (name)
威武might
科威特Kuwait
权威性authoritative權威性
威信wēixìnprestige
威尔逊Wilson (name)威爾遜
威风wēifēngmight威風
威严dignified威嚴
助威zhùwēito cheer for
Exercise 1 of 4
Compound Meaning
What does 崴 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 威
Some common phrases that include 威 are '威信' (wēixìn), meaning prestige or credibility, and '威严' (wēiyán), which means dignified or imposing presence. These phrases highlight the character's connotations of respect and power.
威 (wēi) and 力 (lì) both relate to strength, but they emphasize different aspects. 威 focuses more on power, authority, and prestige, whereas 力 refers to physical strength or force. Understanding the nuances between these characters can enhance your command of Chinese vocabulary.
威 (wēi) means power, might, or prestige in Chinese. It is often used to describe someone who has authority or influence, and can also refer to the impressive nature of something. This character can be found in various contexts, including literature, politics, and everyday conversation.
威 (wēi) can be used to describe the influence or power someone holds. For example, you might say '他的威望很高' (tā de wēiwàng hěn gāo), which translates to 'He has a high prestige.' This shows how 威 can indicate respect or authority in a social context.
You can find 威 in phrases like 威望 (prestige) and 威武 (majestic).
威 is often used in formal documents to convey authority or influence.
Yes, depending on the context, 威 can imply intimidation or oppressive power.
