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March 24, 2026
蓿xu(xu5)
The character 蓿 (xu) refers to 'alfalfa' or 'clover,' which are types of leguminous plants commonly used for animal fodder. This term is particularly relevant in agricultural contexts, especially in discussions about livestock feed and sustainable farming practices.
Strokes14Radical艹Frequency#—DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, alfalfa and clover are significant in the context of traditional farming practices, particularly in regions where animal husbandry is vital. These plants are often associated with rural life and sustainable agriculture.
Memory Tip
Imagine a lush field of clover where cows happily munch away. The character 蓿 resembles a plant with leaves (the top part) and roots (the bottom part), helping you visualize its meaning related to greenery and agriculture. The pronunciation 'xu' can remind you of 'chew,' as cows chew on alfalfa.
Meanings of 蓿
xu(xu5)
primary
1alfalfa, clover, lucerne
2Taiwan pr. [su4]
Exercise 1 of 2
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About 蓿
蓿Simplified
14Strokes
艹Radical
非语素字non-morpheme character (n-m.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
Podcast: 蓿
Podcast: 蓿
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AI Study Notes for 蓿
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a lush field of clover where cows happily munch away. The character 蓿 resembles a plant with leaves (the top part) and roots (the bottom part), helping you visualize its meaning related to greenery and agriculture. The pronunciation 'xu' can remind you of 'chew,' as cows chew on alfalfa.
Usage Notes
This term is primarily used in a farming or agricultural context, so it's more formal than everyday vocabulary. Learners might confuse 蓿 with similar-sounding words, so pay attention to tone and context. Common collocations include phrases like '蓿草' (alfalfa grass).
HSK Study Tips
While 蓿 is not included in the HSK vocabulary lists, it is useful to know at this level for those interested in agriculture or environmental studies. Students should focus on recognizing the character's components and its pronunciation to avoid confusion with other similar words.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, alfalfa and clover are significant in the context of traditional farming practices, particularly in regions where animal husbandry is vital. These plants are often associated with rural life and sustainable agriculture.
Common Mistakes
Learners often mispronounce 蓿 by confusing it with similar-sounding words or neglecting the tone. For example, saying 'xu' with a rising tone instead of the correct falling tone can lead to misunderstanding. Always emphasize the correct tone for clear communication.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 蓿
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Grammar Patterns of 蓿
蓿 carries 2 distinct meanings. Below you'll find the patterns that show how it combines with other words, plus example sentences pulled directly from native usage.
Exercise 1 of 2
Complete the Sentence
被誉为制造业之乡 、 冬枣之乡 、 苜____之乡.
Known as the hometown of the manufacturing sector, jujube village, alfalfa town.
Alfalfa will fail to grow well on soils which lack sufficient amounts of available caleium.
Cultural Notes for 蓿
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, alfalfa and clover are significant in the context of traditional farming practices, particularly in regions where animal husbandry is vital. These plants are often associated with rural life and sustainable agriculture.
Word Family of 蓿
Words Containing This Character2
苜蓿lucerne
蓿xuclover
Exercise 1 of 2
Compound Meaning
What does 苜蓿 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 蓿
蓿 specifically refers to alfalfa or clover, while other names like 草 (cǎo) refer generically to grass. It's important to know the specific types for accurate communication.
It is pronounced as 'xu' in Mandarin; ensure you practice the tone to avoid confusion with other words.
Typically, 蓿 is more specialized and may not come up often in casual conversation unless discussing farming or gardening.