Meanings of 蓖
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 蓖
Podcast: 蓖
Podcast: 蓖
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI Study Notes for 蓖
Imagine a large, leafy plant with spiky seed pods. The character 蓖 has a radical (艹) that suggests it is a plant, and the 'bì' sound can be remembered by thinking of 'bitter seeds' from this spiky plant, which are the seeds of the castor-oil plant.
While 蓖 primarily refers to the castor-oil plant, it's important to use it in botanical or agricultural contexts. Avoid using it in casual conversation, as it's more technical. Be careful with the tone; 'bì' has a falling tone, which distinguishes it from other similar-sounding words.
Although 蓖 is not included in the HSK vocabulary lists, students should connect it with other plant-related vocabulary. Focus on recognizing the plant radical (艹) in other characters, as it often indicates botanical terms.
In Chinese culture, the castor-oil plant has historical significance for its use in traditional medicine and cooking. Castor oil is sometimes used as a remedy in folk practices, showcasing the integration of natural plants in health and wellness.
Learners often confuse 蓖 with similar plant names. For instance, saying '蓖油' (bì yóu) incorrectly to mean 'oil from plants' instead of the specific 'castor oil' (蓖麻油, bì má yóu) can lead to misunderstandings. Always clarify the context when using this term.
Pronunciation of 蓖
Drill the tone of 蓖 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
Etymology of 蓖
plant
Character Formation Type
What type of character formation is 蓖?
Decomposition of 蓖
Identify the Components
Which of these is a component of 蓖?
Write 蓖
New here? to save your writing progress and earn XP.
Practice writing 蓖 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 蓖
蓖 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). The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.
Complete the Sentence
他们快把____麻毒素——一种致命的植物毒素——研发为武器了。
They were close to weaponizing ricin—a lethal plant toxin.
Example Sentences for 蓖 (3)
Cultural Notes for 蓖
In Chinese culture, the castor-oil plant has historical significance for its use in traditional medicine and cooking. Castor oil is sometimes used as a remedy in folk practices, showcasing the integration of natural plants in health and wellness.
Word Family of 蓖
Compound Meaning
What does 蓖麻 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 蓖
The primary use is for extracting castor oil, which is used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and as a natural remedy.
Jason Recommends
Not sure what to learn after 蓖?
Jason picks three words from your level and explains why each one is worth your time next. It takes a free account so he knows what you already know.