Meanings of 梏
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 梏
Podcast: 梏
Podcast: 梏
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI Study Notes for 梏
Be careful not to confuse 梏 with similar characters that relate to binding or restraint, such as 缚 (fù). This term is generally used in more formal contexts, particularly in legal discussions or historical texts.
Although 梏 is not included in the HSK vocabulary, it connects to HSK Level 4 vocabulary related to law and order, such as 监狱 (jiānyù, prison) and 拘留 (jūliú, detention). Focus on remembering its usage in contexts involving imprisonment.
Learners often confuse 梏 (gù) with other characters related to binding, such as 拘 (jū), which means to detain but does not imply physical restraints. Be sure to use 梏 when specifically discussing handcuffs or fetters.
Pronunciation of 梏
Drill the tone of 梏 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
Etymology of 梏
wood
Jason Etymology Detective
Case file: 梏
- 1The meaning half木 carries the sense.
- 2The sound half告 is there for the reading, not the meaning.
- 3The giveawaywood
- 4On the record aspictophonetic.
Every clue here comes from the character's recorded structure — nothing is guessed.
Want the full history of 梏? 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 梏?
Decomposition of 梏
Identify the Components
Which of these is a component of 梏?
How to say handcuffs, manacles; fetters in Chinese
“handcuffs, manacles; fetters” in Chinese is梏
The character 梏 (gù) refers to handcuffs or manacles, typically used to restrain a person's hands. It can also denote fetters that bind the feet or other forms of confinement. This term is often used in legal or historical contexts regarding imprisonment or captivity.
When to use 梏
Be careful not to confuse 梏 with similar characters that relate to binding or restraint, such as 缚 (fù). This term is generally used in more formal contexts, particularly in legal discussions or historical texts.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 梏 (gù) with other characters related to binding, such as 拘 (jū), which means to detain but does not imply physical restraints. Be sure to use 梏 when specifically discussing handcuffs or fetters.
Write 梏
New here? to save your writing progress and earn XP.
Practice writing 梏 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Word Family of 梏
Compound Meaning
What does 桎梏 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 梏
梏 specifically refers to physical restraints like handcuffs, while 拘留 means to detain someone legally without necessarily implying physical restraint.
Jason Recommends
Not sure what to learn after 梏?
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.