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March 24, 2026
拑qián(qian2)
The character 拑 (qián) refers to the action of clamping or pinching something securely in place. It is often used in contexts involving tools like pliers or pincers, as well as in figurative language to describe securing or holding down an idea or object. The nuance emphasizes control and firmness in grasping or securing.
Strokes8Radical扌Frequency#—DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
In traditional Chinese craftsmanship, tools like pliers are essential for intricate work, reflecting the value of precision and control in Chinese artisan culture. The importance of secure handling in various crafts underscores the relevance of this character.
Memory Tip
Imagine a pair of powerful pincers clamping down on a piece of wood, holding it tightly in place. The shape of the character 拑 resembles two hands gripping something firmly, reinforcing the idea of pinching or clamping with strength.
Meanings of 拑
qián(qian2)
1to clamp, to pin down, to tie down
2pliers
Exercise 1 of 2
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About 拑
拑Simplified
8Strokes
扌Radical
状态词stative word (stat.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
Podcast: 拑
Podcast: 拑
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AI Study Notes for 拑
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a pair of powerful pincers clamping down on a piece of wood, holding it tightly in place. The shape of the character 拑 resembles two hands gripping something firmly, reinforcing the idea of pinching or clamping with strength.
Usage Notes
Common mistakes include confusing 拑 with similar characters that imply holding or touching but lack the forceful nuance. This character is more commonly used in technical or workshop contexts, so it's less likely to appear in everyday conversation. Be careful with tone; the fourth tone can change the meaning significantly.
HSK Study Tips
Although not part of the HSK vocabulary list, understanding 拑 can enhance your grasp of related terms in tools and actions. Students at any level should focus on recognizing its use in context, especially in technical conversations or descriptions.
Cultural Note
In traditional Chinese craftsmanship, tools like pliers are essential for intricate work, reflecting the value of precision and control in Chinese artisan culture. The importance of secure handling in various crafts underscores the relevance of this character.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 拑 with the character 捡 (jiǎn), which means to pick up. For example, incorrectly saying '我用捡夹木头' instead of '我用拑夹木头' to express using pliers to clamp wood.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 拑
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Cultural Notes for 拑
🏮Cultural insight
In traditional Chinese craftsmanship, tools like pliers are essential for intricate work, reflecting the value of precision and control in Chinese artisan culture. The importance of secure handling in various crafts underscores the relevance of this character.
Word Family of 拑
Words Containing This Character1
拑qiánpliers
Exercise 1 of 1
Compound Meaning
What does 拑 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 拑
While specific phrases may be rare, it can be used in contexts discussing tools or actions like '用拑子' (to use pincers).
It is more commonly found in technical or workshop discussions rather than daily conversation.
Focus on the 'qián' sound, which can remind you of 'clamp' in English, as both involve securing something.
