HSK 7, g, 7 strokes, radical 火, rank #68298, Very Hard
灸
jiǔ
moxibustion (TCM)
HSK 7, unknown, 7 strokes, radical 火, rank #68298, Very Hard
jiǔ(jiu3) T3
1to cauterize; moxibustion
2moxibustion (TCM)
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March 24, 2026
灸jiǔ(jiu3)
The character 灸 (jiǔ) refers to the practice of moxibustion, a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves burning the herb mugwort near or on acupuncture points to stimulate healing. It is often used to enhance the effects of acupuncture and is regarded as a method to promote circulation and alleviate pain.
Strokes7Radical火Frequency#68298DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
Moxibustion, represented by 灸, has been practiced in China for thousands of years and is often used alongside acupuncture. It reflects the holistic approach in traditional Chinese medicine, emphasizing balance and the body's natural ability to heal.
Memory Tip
Imagine a candle (the top part of 灸) used to burn mugwort (the lower part, representing the herb) to heal. The sound 'jiǔ' can remind you of 'jewels' that bring warmth, just as the heat from moxibustion brings healing.
Meanings of 灸
jiǔ(jiu3)
1to cauterize; moxibustion
2moxibustion (TCM)
Exercise 1 of 2
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About 灸
灸Simplified
7Strokes
火Radical
语素morpheme (morph.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L7AdvancedCEFRC2
Podcast: 灸
Podcast: 灸
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AI Study Notes for 灸
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a candle (the top part of 灸) used to burn mugwort (the lower part, representing the herb) to heal. The sound 'jiǔ' can remind you of 'jewels' that bring warmth, just as the heat from moxibustion brings healing.
Usage Notes
In informal settings, 灸 can refer casually to the practice of moxibustion, but in formal contexts, it's important to use it in relation to traditional medicine. Be cautious with the tone; the third tone can easily be confused with other words like '久' (long time).
HSK Study Tips
Although 灸 is not included in the official HSK levels, it's relevant for learners interested in traditional Chinese medicine. Focus on its use in context, especially in health-related discussions, to enhance your vocabulary in this area.
Cultural Note
Moxibustion, represented by 灸, has been practiced in China for thousands of years and is often used alongside acupuncture. It reflects the holistic approach in traditional Chinese medicine, emphasizing balance and the body's natural ability to heal.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 灸 with similar-sounding words like '久' (long time) due to tone mispronunciation. For example, saying 'jiu' in a flat tone instead of the third tone can lead to misunderstandings.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 灸
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Grammar Patterns of 灸
灸 carries 2 distinct meanings. Below you'll find the patterns that show how it combines with other words, plus example sentences pulled directly from native usage.
Exercise 1 of 1
Complete the Sentence
她正在看一本关于针____疗法的新书.
She is reading a new work on acupuncture.
Example Sentences for 灸 (1)
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1
她正在看一本关于针灸疗法的新书.
tā zhèng zài kàn yī běn guān yú zhēn jiǔ liáo fǎ de xīn shū.
She is reading a new work on acupuncture.
Cultural Notes for 灸
🏮Cultural insight
Moxibustion, represented by 灸, has been practiced in China for thousands of years and is often used alongside acupuncture. It reflects the holistic approach in traditional Chinese medicine, emphasizing balance and the body's natural ability to heal.
Word Family of 灸
Words Containing This Character2
针灸zhēnjiǔacupuncture and moxibustion針灸
灸jiǔmoxibustion (TCM)
Exercise 1 of 2
Compound Meaning
What does 针灸 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 灸
Moxibustion is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves burning mugwort to stimulate acupuncture points and promote healing.
In TCM, 灸 is used to warm regions and meridians with the intention of expelling cold and dampness to improve circulation and alleviate pain.
When performed correctly by a trained practitioner, moxibustion is generally safe, though it's important to be cautious of burns or allergic reactions.
