Meanings of 巾
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 巾
Podcast: 巾
Podcast: 巾
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI Study Notes for 巾
When using 巾, it is important to note that it is often paired with other characters to form compound words, such as 毛巾 (máojīn, meaning 'towel') or 手巾 (shǒujīn, meaning 'handkerchief'). Avoid using this character in overly formal contexts, as it is generally more casual.
While 巾 is not specifically listed in HSK levels, it connects with basic vocabulary related to household items and daily life. Learners should focus on its compound forms to enhance their understanding of practical uses in conversation.
Learners often confuse 巾 with 布 (bù), which means 'cloth' in general. For example, saying '我需要一块巾' (Wǒ xūyào yī kuài jīn, 'I need a piece of towel') is incorrect; it should be '毛巾' (máojīn) for towel.
Pronunciation of 巾
Drill the tone of 巾 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
Etymology of 巾
Pictograph of a cloth hanging downwards.
A curtain or towel hanging from a rack
Jason Etymology Detective
Case file: 巾
Pictograph of a cloth hanging downwards.
- 1The giveawayA curtain or towel hanging from a rack
- 2On the record aspictographic — someone drew the thing itself.
Every clue here comes from the character's recorded structure — nothing is guessed.
Want the full history of 巾? Jason searches the paleographic record, weighs the competing accounts and judges the popular story.
Charged once for this character — everyone reads it afterwards.Character Formation Type
What type of character formation is 巾?
Decomposition of 巾
Identify the Components
Which of these is a component of 巾?
How to say towel in Chinese
“towel” in Chinese is巾
The character 巾 (jīn) refers primarily to a towel or cloth, often used for drying hands or face. It can also denote a general-purpose piece of cloth and historically, it has been associated with women's head coverings. This character is often encountered in contexts related to hygiene and personal care.
When to use 巾
When using 巾, it is important to note that it is often paired with other characters to form compound words, such as 毛巾 (máojīn, meaning 'towel') or 手巾 (shǒujīn, meaning 'handkerchief'). Avoid using this character in overly formal contexts, as it is generally more casual.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 巾 with 布 (bù), which means 'cloth' in general. For example, saying '我需要一块巾' (Wǒ xūyào yī kuài jīn, 'I need a piece of towel') is incorrect; it should be '毛巾' (máojīn) for towel.
Write 巾
New here? to save your writing progress and earn XP.
Practice writing 巾 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 巾
巾 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 5 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.
Complete the Sentence
我有一条漂亮的红围____。
I have a beautiful red scarf.
Common Confusions with 巾
Has a similar appearance but different meaning.
Spot the Difference
Which character means "towel"?
Example Sentences for 巾 (10)
Word Family of 巾
Compound Meaning
What does 帮 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 巾
Common phrases with 巾 include '毛巾' (máojīn) which means 'towel' and '手巾' (shǒujīn) meaning 'handkerchief.' These phrases highlight the character's use in describing various types of cloth.
Jason Recommends
Not sure what to learn after 巾?
Jason picks three words from your level and explains why each one is worth your time next. It takes a free account so he knows what you already know.