Meanings of 耿
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About 耿
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Podcast: 耿
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AI study notes for 耿
Learners often confuse 耿 with similar-sounding words, like 更 (gèng), which can lead to miscommunication. This character is relatively formal and is often used in literary contexts or to describe admirable qualities in people. Be mindful of the tone, as mispronouncing it as 'geng' with a flat tone alters its meaning entirely.
Although 耿 is not part of the HSK vocabulary list, its components and usage can be connected to HSK Level 3 words like 更 (gèng) and 亮 (liàng), which also relate to brightness. Focus on the context of usage and the positive attributes it represents to enhance your vocabulary.
A common mistake is confusing 耿 with the character 更 (gèng), which means 'more.' For example, saying '我觉得他更好' (I think he is bright) instead of using '耿' would be incorrect in this context. Always ensure you use the right character to convey the intended meaning.
Pronunciation of 耿
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Jason Explains 耿 to you
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Learning Lab
Knowing 耿 is seven skills, not one.
Its meaning, its character, its pinyin, its tone — hearing it, saying it, writing it. The Learning Lab measures each one from your own practice, on every word you study, so you see what you actually know rather than how much you have done.
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Etymology of 耿
fire
Origin
What kind of character is 耿?
Decomposition of 耿
Parts
Which of these is part of 耿?
How to say surname Geng in Chinese
“surname Geng” in Chinese is耿
The character 耿 (gěng) primarily means bright or shining, often used to describe someone who is brave and loyal. It can also convey a sense of honesty and uprightness, making it a positive descriptor. In addition, it serves as a surname, particularly in Chinese-speaking regions.
When to use 耿
Learners often confuse 耿 with similar-sounding words, like 更 (gèng), which can lead to miscommunication. This character is relatively formal and is often used in literary contexts or to describe admirable qualities in people. Be mindful of the tone, as mispronouncing it as 'geng' with a flat tone alters its meaning entirely.
What learners get wrong
A common mistake is confusing 耿 with the character 更 (gèng), which means 'more.' For example, saying '我觉得他更好' (I think he is bright) instead of using '耿' would be incorrect in this context. Always ensure you use the right character to convey the intended meaning.
Write 耿
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Practice writing 耿 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar patterns of 耿
耿 functions as a noun — it names a person, place, thing, or concept. Place it as a subject before the verb (主+谓) or as an object after the verb (谓+宾). Most Chinese nouns require a measure word between the number and the noun (e.g. 一个/三本). It carries 4 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.
Fill the gap
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唯一使我____耿于怀的就是她那些关于爱尔兰的言论。
The only thing that rankles me is what she says about Ireland.
Example sentences for 耿 (4)
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Word Family of 耿
Words with 耿
What does 耿耿于怀 mean?
Frequently asked questions about 耿
It describes someone as bright, brave, and honest, often highlighting their admirable qualities.
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