unknown, 11 strokes, radical ⺮, rank #59604, Very Hard
chī(chi1) T1
1bamboo rod used for beatings
2to whip with bamboo strips
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March 24, 2026
笞chī(chi1)
The character 笞 (chī) refers to a bamboo rod traditionally used for punishment, particularly in ancient Chinese contexts. It conveys the idea of inflicting physical discipline through whipping, typically associated with strict educational or military settings. In modern usage, it may carry a historical or literary connotation, rather than being commonly used in daily life.
Strokes11Radical⺮Frequency#59604DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
In traditional Chinese education, physical discipline using tools like 笞 was common and reflected a strict approach to teaching. This practice emphasizes the historical importance of discipline in Chinese culture, especially in Confucian teachings.
Memory Tip
Imagine a 'chi'ld misbehaving and receiving a 'chī' (whip) made from a bamboo rod. The character has the bamboo radical (竹) on the left, reinforcing its connection to bamboo. Picture a strict teacher wielding this rod to instill discipline.
Meanings of 笞
chī(chi1)
1bamboo rod used for beatings
2to whip with bamboo strips
Exercise 1 of 2
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 笞
笞Simplified
11Strokes
⺮Radical
动语素dòngcíverb root (v.root)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
Podcast: 笞
Podcast: 笞
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AI Study Notes for 笞
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a 'chi'ld misbehaving and receiving a 'chī' (whip) made from a bamboo rod. The character has the bamboo radical (竹) on the left, reinforcing its connection to bamboo. Picture a strict teacher wielding this rod to instill discipline.
Usage Notes
While 笞 is not commonly used in contemporary language, it may appear in literary or historical texts. Learners should avoid using it in casual conversation due to its serious implications. Be mindful of the tone when discussing punishment-related topics, as it can be sensitive.
HSK Study Tips
Although 笞 is not part of the HSK vocabulary, it could be interesting for students to explore words related to punishment or discipline, such as 惩罚 (chéng fá, punishment) and 教育 (jiào yù, education). Focus on understanding the context in which such words might be used.
Cultural Note
In traditional Chinese education, physical discipline using tools like 笞 was common and reflected a strict approach to teaching. This practice emphasizes the historical importance of discipline in Chinese culture, especially in Confucian teachings.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 笞 with similar characters related to other forms of punishment, like 鞭 (biān, whip). It's important to remember that 笞 specifically denotes a bamboo rod, while 鞭 refers more generally to a whip.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 笞
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Grammar Patterns of 笞
笞 functions as a verb — the action or state of the sentence. The Chinese order is Subject + Verb + Object (我吃饭). Negate it with 不 (habitual / future) or 没(有) (completed action). Add aspect markers like 了, 过, 着 directly after the verb. It carries 2 related meanings, each with its own usage notes below. The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.
Exercise 1 of 1
Complete the Sentence
舞蹈开始前会举行祈祷和鞭____的仪式。
There is a ceremony of prayer and flagellation before the dancing begins.
Example Sentences for 笞 (1)
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1
舞蹈开始前会举行祈祷和鞭笞的仪式。
wǔ dǎo kāi shǐ qián huì jǔ háng qí dǎo hé biān chī de yí shì。
There is a ceremony of prayer and flagellation before the dancing begins.
Cultural Notes for 笞
🏮Cultural insight
In traditional Chinese education, physical discipline using tools like 笞 was common and reflected a strict approach to teaching. This practice emphasizes the historical importance of discipline in Chinese culture, especially in Confucian teachings.
Word Family of 笞
Words Containing This Character3
鞭笞to flog
笞chīto whip with bamboo strips
笞刑whipping with bamboo strips (as corporal punishment)
Exercise 1 of 3
Compound Meaning
What does 鞭笞 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 笞
No, 笞 is primarily found in classical literature and historical texts, rather than in everyday conversation.
The tone for 笞 is the first tone (chī), which is high and level.
There are no common idioms or phrases that include 笞, but it can be referenced in discussions about historical punishment.
