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March 24, 2026
脅xié(xie2)
The character 脅 (xié) primarily means to threaten or coerce someone into action, often through intimidation. It can also refer to the ribs or flank in anatomical contexts, indicating its application in both abstract and concrete domains.
Strokes10Radical⺼Frequency#68001DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of '脅迫' (xiépò) or coercion is often discussed in the context of interpersonal relationships and business ethics, highlighting the importance of harmony and mutual respect.
Memory Tip
Imagine a fierce animal with sharp ribs (the character's radical) that threatens anyone who comes too close. The sharpness suggests danger, helping you remember 'xié' means to threaten.
Meanings of 脅
xié(xie2)
1to threaten, to coerce; ribs, flank
Exercise 1 of 2
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About 脅
脅Simplified
10Strokes
⺼Radical
非语素字non-morpheme character (n-m.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
Podcast: 脅
Podcast: 脅
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AI Study Notes for 脅
Quick Contrast
威胁 (wēixié, to threaten) — use 脅 (xié) when emphasizing the act of coercion or intimidation, while 威胁 (wēixié) is broader and can imply a general threat without the same intensity.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a fierce animal with sharp ribs (the character's radical) that threatens anyone who comes too close. The sharpness suggests danger, helping you remember 'xié' means to threaten.
Usage Notes
This term is often used in a negative context, particularly in legal or personal situations. Be careful not to confuse it with '协' (xié), which means to cooperate; the tones are different.
HSK Study Tips
Although 脅 is not currently part of the HSK vocabulary, understanding it can enhance your comprehension of words related to conflict or pressure. Focus on its usage in phrases that convey coercion or threats.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of '脅迫' (xiépò) or coercion is often discussed in the context of interpersonal relationships and business ethics, highlighting the importance of harmony and mutual respect.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 脅 with similar-sounding words. For example, using 脅 when they mean '协' (to cooperate) leads to misunderstandings. Always double-check the tone and context.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 脅
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Cultural Notes for 脅
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, the concept of '脅迫' (xiépò) or coercion is often discussed in the context of interpersonal relationships and business ethics, highlighting the importance of harmony and mutual respect.
Word Family of 脅
Words Containing This Character6
威胁wēixiéto threaten威脅
胁迫to coerce脅迫
胁xiéto coerce脅
胁持to hold under duress脅持
胁从犯induced accomplice脅從犯
迫胁to coerce迫脅
Exercise 1 of 4
Compound Meaning
What does 威胁 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 脅
It is pronounced as 'xié' with a rising tone.
No, 脅 has a negative connotation, typically implying intimidation or threats.
The radical is '月' (yue), which often relates to body parts, indicating its connection to the ribs.
