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March 24, 2026
芋yù(yu4)
The character 芋 (yù) refers to taro, a starchy root vegetable commonly used in various cuisines. It is notable for its nutty flavor and is often used in soups, desserts, or as a side dish in Chinese cooking. Taro is also associated with certain traditional dishes during festivals and celebrations.
Strokes6Radical艹Frequency#26535DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, taro is often associated with wealth and prosperity, making it a popular ingredient in dishes served during Lunar New Year celebrations. It symbolizes good fortune due to its similar pronunciation to the word for 'increase' (余, yú).
Memory Tip
Think of 芋 (yù) as a 'root' vegetable. The left part, 艹 (cǎo), suggests plants, while the right part, 於 (yú), looks like a person holding a taro. Imagine a person happily harvesting taro from the ground, which helps remember both the character and its meaning.
Meanings of 芋
yù(yu4)
1taro
2Colocasia antiquorum
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About 芋
芋Simplified
6Strokes
艹Radical
状态词stative word (stat.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
Podcast: 芋
Podcast: 芋
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AI Study Notes for 芋
Memory Mnemonic
Think of 芋 (yù) as a 'root' vegetable. The left part, 艹 (cǎo), suggests plants, while the right part, 於 (yú), looks like a person holding a taro. Imagine a person happily harvesting taro from the ground, which helps remember both the character and its meaning.
Usage Notes
Be careful not to confuse 芋 (yù) with other similar characters like 蕉 (jiāo), which means banana. This word is used in both formal and informal contexts, especially in culinary discussions. Common collocations include 芋头 (yùtóu, taro root) and 芋泥 (yùnì, taro paste).
HSK Study Tips
While 芋 is not part of the official HSK vocabulary, it connects to the theme of food-related words found in lower levels. Focus on recognizing its use in recipes and discussions about regional Chinese dishes that feature taro.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, taro is often associated with wealth and prosperity, making it a popular ingredient in dishes served during Lunar New Year celebrations. It symbolizes good fortune due to its similar pronunciation to the word for 'increase' (余, yú).
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 芋 (yù) with similar-sounding characters; for example, some might mistakenly use 鱼 (yú, fish) when talking about food. It’s important to remember that 芋 specifically refers to taro.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 芋
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Grammar Patterns of 芋
芋 carries 3 distinct meanings. Below you'll find the patterns that show how it combines with other words, plus example sentences pulled directly from native usage.
In Chinese culture, taro is often associated with wealth and prosperity, making it a popular ingredient in dishes served during Lunar New Year celebrations. It symbolizes good fortune due to its similar pronunciation to the word for 'increase' (余, yú).
Word Family of 芋
Words Containing This Character7
芋yùtaro
山芋sweet potato
洋芋(dialect) potato
芋头taro芋頭
魔芋konjac, konnyaku or devil's tongue (Amorphophallus konjac), plant whose corms are used to make a stiff jelly (as a food)
菊芋Jerusalem artichoke
竹芋Indian arrowroot (Maranta arundinacea)
Exercise 1 of 4
Compound Meaning
What does 芋 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 芋
芋头 specifically refers to taro, which has a unique flavor and texture compared to potatoes or sweet potatoes.
Yes, taro is often used in desserts like taro pudding or taro-flavored boba tea.
You should peel the taro and cook it by steaming, boiling, or baking to soften it before adding it to dishes.
