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March 24, 2026
箜kōng(kong1)
The character 箜 (kōng) refers to an ancient Chinese musical instrument known as the harp, specifically the konghou. It is often mentioned in historical texts and is associated with traditional Chinese music. This term is typically used in formal contexts, especially those relating to culture and music.
Strokes14Radical⺮Frequency#—DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
The konghou, associated with the character 箜, has been an integral part of Chinese music for centuries, often played during royal ceremonies and cultural events. Its significance reflects the deep appreciation for music in Chinese culture.
Memory Tip
Imagine a beautiful ancient harp (konghou) being played in a serene setting. The character 箜 resembles the shape of the instrument with its strings, while the 'kōng' sound can remind you of the soft, flowing music it produces.
Meanings of 箜
kōng(kong1)
1ancient Chinese harp
2ancient harp
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About 箜
箜Simplified
14Strokes
⺮Radical
非语素字non-morpheme character (n-m.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
Podcast: 箜
Podcast: 箜
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AI Study Notes for 箜
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a beautiful ancient harp (konghou) being played in a serene setting. The character 箜 resembles the shape of the instrument with its strings, while the 'kōng' sound can remind you of the soft, flowing music it produces.
Usage Notes
Common mistakes include confusing 箜 with similar-sounding characters or using it in informal contexts where modern instruments are discussed. It is mostly used in literary and cultural discussions, so learners should be mindful of the context in which they use it.
HSK Study Tips
Though 箜 is not part of the HSK vocabulary, students at this level should recognize its cultural significance. It's beneficial to connect this character with other musical terms and instruments they learn, enhancing their understanding of traditional Chinese arts.
Cultural Note
The konghou, associated with the character 箜, has been an integral part of Chinese music for centuries, often played during royal ceremonies and cultural events. Its significance reflects the deep appreciation for music in Chinese culture.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 箜 with similar characters or pronounce it incorrectly. For example, saying 'kǒng' instead of 'kōng' alters the meaning entirely.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 箜
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Cultural Notes for 箜
🏮Cultural insight
The konghou, associated with the character 箜, has been an integral part of Chinese music for centuries, often played during royal ceremonies and cultural events. Its significance reflects the deep appreciation for music in Chinese culture.
Word Family of 箜
Words Containing This Character2
箜篌konghou (Chinese harp)
箜kōngancient harp
Exercise 1 of 2
Compound Meaning
What does 箜篌 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 箜
In modern times, 箜 specifically refers to the ancient harp, and you might not encounter it in everyday conversation.
The correct pronunciation is 'kōng' with a high level tone.
Yes, it often appears in classical Chinese poetry and texts that celebrate traditional music.