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March 24, 2026
猊(貎)ní(ni2)
The character 猊 (ní) primarily refers to a lion or a mythical beast associated with wild animals. It can also denote a wild horse, though this usage is less common. The character has historical significance in Chinese literature and art, often symbolizing strength and majesty.
Strokes11Radical犭Frequency#—DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the lion is often seen as a symbol of protection and power, frequently depicted in stone carvings outside temples and palaces. The character 猊 captures this cultural reverence for strength and mythical qualities.
Memory Tip
Imagine a lion’s mane flowing like wild hair, representing the wildness of the beast. The character 猊 has the radical 犬 (dog), suggesting its connection to animals, with the 'ni' sound reminding you of a lion's fierce roar.
Meanings of 猊
ní(ni2)
1lion, wild beast; wild horse
2(mythical animal)
Exercise 1 of 2
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About 猊
猊Simplified
貎Traditional
11Strokes
犭Radical
非语素字non-morpheme character (n-m.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
Podcast: 猊
Podcast: 猊
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AI Study Notes for 猊
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a lion’s mane flowing like wild hair, representing the wildness of the beast. The character 猊 has the radical 犬 (dog), suggesting its connection to animals, with the 'ni' sound reminding you of a lion's fierce roar.
Usage Notes
Learners often confuse 猊 with similar characters, particularly using it incorrectly in place of 貌 or 狻. This character is not commonly used in contemporary language, so it's important to understand its specific contexts and nuances. Use it primarily in literary or historical references.
HSK Study Tips
Though not included in the HSK levels, 猊 can enrich your vocabulary, especially when studying classical texts. Focus on recognizing its historical significance and differentiating it from similar characters to avoid confusion.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the lion is often seen as a symbol of protection and power, frequently depicted in stone carvings outside temples and palaces. The character 猊 captures this cultural reverence for strength and mythical qualities.
Common Mistakes
Learners may mistakenly use 猊 in place of 貌, thinking they are synonyms, or confuse it with 狻. Correct usage requires understanding the specific contexts for each character.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 猊
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Cultural Notes for 猊
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, the lion is often seen as a symbol of protection and power, frequently depicted in stone carvings outside temples and palaces. The character 猊 captures this cultural reverence for strength and mythical qualities.
Word Family of 猊
Words Containing This Character1
猊nílion貎
Exercise 1 of 1
Compound Meaning
What does 猊 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 猊
In modern usage, 猊 is rarely used and primarily appears in literary contexts, often referring to lions or mythical creatures.
狻 refers specifically to a mythological creature, while 猊 can denote both a lion and a more general wild animal.
No, 猊 is not commonly used in everyday conversation and is more relevant in historical or literary studies.
