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March 24, 2026
紮zā(za1)
The character 紮 (zā) refers to the action of tying, fastening, or binding objects together. It is commonly used in contexts such as tying up packages, securing items, or binding materials in crafts and construction. The nuance often implies a strong or secure fastening.
Strokes11Radical糸Frequency#—DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the practice of tying things securely has historical significance, especially in traditional crafts like bamboo weaving or making dumplings. The importance of secure bindings reflects the value placed on stability and reliability in communal practices.
Memory Tip
Imagine a strong rope (扎) that binds two pieces of wood together, providing stability. The character's components suggest this action: the silk radical (纟) connects to the idea of tying things together, while the 'to bind' meaning resonates with the sound 'zā'. Picture a sturdy knot holding everything in place.
Meanings of 紮
zā(za1)
1to tie, to fasten, to bind
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About 紮
紮Simplified
11Strokes
糸Radical
状态词stative word (stat.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
Podcast: 紮
Podcast: 紮
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AI Study Notes for 紮
Quick Contrast
绑 (bǎng) — use 紮 (zā) when emphasizing a strong or secure fastening, while 绑 (bǎng) is more general for tying without the same connotation of strength.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a strong rope (扎) that binds two pieces of wood together, providing stability. The character's components suggest this action: the silk radical (纟) connects to the idea of tying things together, while the 'to bind' meaning resonates with the sound 'zā'. Picture a sturdy knot holding everything in place.
Usage Notes
Be cautious not to confuse 紮 (zā) with similar-sounding words like 扎 (zhā), which means 'to prick' or 'to stab'. It is used in both formal and informal contexts, often seen in instructions or descriptions of tasks. Common collocations include 紮队 (zā duì, to form a line) and 紮根 (zā gēn, to take root).
HSK Study Tips
While 紮 is not included in the HSK levels, it connects well with other verbs related to actions (e.g., 绑 bǎng, to tie). Students should focus on recognizing its usage in compound words and phrases, enhancing their vocabulary related to physical actions.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the practice of tying things securely has historical significance, especially in traditional crafts like bamboo weaving or making dumplings. The importance of secure bindings reflects the value placed on stability and reliability in communal practices.
Common Mistakes
Learners often mistakenly use 紮 (zā) when they mean 扎 (zhā). For example, saying '我扎包' (wǒ zhā bāo, I tie the bag) instead of '我紮包' (wǒ zā bāo) can lead to confusion. Always remember that 紮 specifically relates to tying or binding securely.
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Pronunciation of 紮
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Cultural Notes for 紮
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, the practice of tying things securely has historical significance, especially in traditional crafts like bamboo weaving or making dumplings. The importance of secure bindings reflects the value placed on stability and reliability in communal practices.
