Meanings of 巴
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About 巴
Podcast: 巴
Podcast: 巴
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AI Study Notes for 巴
巴 is versatile and can appear in both formal and informal contexts. Common mistakes include confusing it with similar-sounding characters; remember that 巴 specifically relates to the meanings associated with attachment or proximity. Be cautious with its pronunciation, as the fourth tone (bā) conveys different meanings than other tones.
Though 巴 is not an HSK level character, it connects well with the HSK 1 vocabulary related to transportation, like 公共汽车 (gōnggòng qìchē, bus). Focus on understanding its various usages, especially in colloquial language.
Learners often confuse 巴 with other similar characters, leading to incorrect meanings. For example, using it to mean 'father' (父) instead of its correct context of longing or sticking can create confusion.
Pronunciation of 巴
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Jason Explains 巴 to You
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Learning Lab
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Its meaning, its character, its pinyin, its tone — hearing it, saying it, writing it. The Learning Lab measures each one from your own practice, on every word you study, so you see what you actually know rather than how much you have done.
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Etymology of 巴
Pictograph of a person grabbing something with their hand.
Origin
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Decomposition of 巴
Parts
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How to say surname Ba in Chinese
“surname Ba” in Chinese is巴
The character 巴 (bā) has multiple meanings, predominantly relating to the ancient Ba state during the Zhou dynasty, located in modern Sichuan. It also signifies a desire or longing for something, and can mean to cling or stick to something. Additionally, it is used informally to refer to a bus, and serves as an abbreviation for locations like Palestine and Pakistan.
When to use 巴
巴 is versatile and can appear in both formal and informal contexts. Common mistakes include confusing it with similar-sounding characters; remember that 巴 specifically relates to the meanings associated with attachment or proximity. Be cautious with its pronunciation, as the fourth tone (bā) conveys different meanings than other tones.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 巴 with other similar characters, leading to incorrect meanings. For example, using it to mean 'father' (父) instead of its correct context of longing or sticking can create confusion.
Write 巴
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Practice writing 巴 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 巴
巴 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 19 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.
他跑了十个多小时，____不得一步就到家。
He had been running for over ten hours and desperately wished he could get home in a single step.
Common Confusions with 巴
Different meanings and uses despite similar pronunciation.
Similar pronunciation and shape, but different meanings.
Which one
Which one means “surname Ba”?
Example Sentences for 巴 (22)
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Word Family of 巴
Characters with 巴
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Frequently Asked Questions about 巴
Yes, 巴 (bā) is a recognized surname in China, although it may not be as common as other surnames. It is often associated with certain regions and historical contexts, adding to its significance in Chinese culture.
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