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March 24, 2026
彀gòu(gou4)
The character 彀 (gòu) refers to the idea of sufficiency or adequacy, often used in contexts indicating that something is 'enough' or 'sufficient'. It can also relate to the full draw of a bow, emphasizing a sense of reaching a limit or maximum capacity.
Strokes13Radical弓Frequency#—DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
The concept of sufficiency is deeply embedded in Chinese philosophy, where balance and moderation are valued. The bow metaphorically represents achieving one's full potential, a common theme in traditional Chinese arts and literature.
Memory Tip
Imagine a bow drawn back to its full extent, representing the maximum range or 'enough' power to hit a target. The components 彀 resemble a bow (the outer line) and the arrow (the inner line) poised for a shot, reinforcing the idea of enough energy to reach its goal.
Meanings of 彀
gòu(gou4)
1enough; quite
2to draw a bow to the full
Exercise 1 of 2
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About 彀
彀Simplified
13Strokes
弓Radical
状态词stative word (stat.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
Podcast: 彀
Podcast: 彀
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AI Study Notes for 彀
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a bow drawn back to its full extent, representing the maximum range or 'enough' power to hit a target. The components 彀 resemble a bow (the outer line) and the arrow (the inner line) poised for a shot, reinforcing the idea of enough energy to reach its goal.
Usage Notes
While 彀 is less commonly used in modern Mandarin, it can appear in literary or formal contexts. Be cautious not to confuse it with 够 (gòu), which is more prevalent in everyday speech. Also, ensure correct pronunciation, as the tone can affect meaning.
HSK Study Tips
Although 彀 is not included in the HSK vocabulary lists, it connects to the HSK Level 2 word 够 (gòu), which means 'enough'. Students should focus on context and usage in literature to understand its nuances.
Cultural Note
The concept of sufficiency is deeply embedded in Chinese philosophy, where balance and moderation are valued. The bow metaphorically represents achieving one's full potential, a common theme in traditional Chinese arts and literature.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 彀 with 够, using 彀 incorrectly in everyday contexts. For example, saying '我需要彀的水' (I need enough water) should be corrected to '我需要够的水'.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 彀
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Cultural Notes for 彀
🏮Cultural insight
The concept of sufficiency is deeply embedded in Chinese philosophy, where balance and moderation are valued. The bow metaphorically represents achieving one's full potential, a common theme in traditional Chinese arts and literature.
Word Family of 彀
Words Containing This Character1
彀gòuto draw a bow to the full
Exercise 1 of 1
Compound Meaning
What does 彀 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 彀
No, 彀 is more likely to be found in literary texts rather than everyday speech.
While both relate to sufficiency, 够 (gòu) is the modern term used in everyday language, whereas 彀 (gòu) has a more historical or literary connotation.
Phrases with 彀 are rare; however, it may appear in classical poetry or texts discussing archery.
