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March 24, 2026
牸zì(zi4)
The character 牸 (zì) specifically refers to a female animal, particularly in the context of domesticated livestock. It can also imply the act of giving birth, relating to the reproductive aspect of female animals. This term is less commonly used in everyday language, often appearing in agricultural or zoological contexts.
Strokes10Radical牛Frequency#—DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
In traditional Chinese farming, understanding the gender of livestock is crucial for breeding and agricultural practices, making terms like 牸 important in rural life and economic activities.
Memory Tip
Think of 牸 (zì) as a 'zoo' filled with female animals. The radical 牜 (animal) hints at its meaning, while the 'zi' sound can remind you of a 'sister' who gives birth to young ones, emphasizing the female aspect.
Meanings of 牸
zì(zi4)
1female animal; to give birth
2female of domestic animals
Exercise 1 of 2
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About 牸
牸Simplified
10Strokes
牛Radical
状态词stative word (stat.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
Podcast: 牸
Podcast: 牸
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AI Study Notes for 牸
Memory Mnemonic
Think of 牸 (zì) as a 'zoo' filled with female animals. The radical 牜 (animal) hints at its meaning, while the 'zi' sound can remind you of a 'sister' who gives birth to young ones, emphasizing the female aspect.
Usage Notes
While 牸 is specific to female animals, learners might confuse it with generic terms for animals. It is more common in formal or technical discussions rather than casual conversations. Pay attention to the tone; it's pronounced with a falling tone (4th tone).
HSK Study Tips
Since 牸 is not on the HSK list, it may be more relevant for those studying veterinary terms or agricultural vocabulary. Focus on related vocabulary such as 母 (mǔ, female) and 公 (gōng, male) to understand gender distinctions in animals.
Cultural Note
In traditional Chinese farming, understanding the gender of livestock is crucial for breeding and agricultural practices, making terms like 牸 important in rural life and economic activities.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 牸 with 母 (mǔ), which also means female but is broader and more commonly used. For example, saying '牸牛' (zì niú) is incorrect; instead, use '母牛' (mǔ niú) for 'female cow.'
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 牸
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Cultural Notes for 牸
🏮Cultural insight
In traditional Chinese farming, understanding the gender of livestock is crucial for breeding and agricultural practices, making terms like 牸 important in rural life and economic activities.
Word Family of 牸
Words Containing This Character1
牸zìfemale of domestic animals
Exercise 1 of 1
Compound Meaning
What does 牸 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 牸
No, it is primarily used in specific contexts like agriculture and veterinary science.
Associate 'zì' with 'sister' to help recall that it refers to female animals.
