unknown, 19 strokes, radical 虫, rank #61477, Very Hard
蟾
chán
(striped) toad
unknown, 19 strokes, radical 虫, rank #61477, Very Hard
chán(chan2) T2
1toad (1)
2moon
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March 24, 2026
蟾chán(chan2)
The character 蟾 (chán) primarily refers to a toad, a type of amphibian known for its warty skin and distinctive croaking sounds. In Chinese culture, toads are often associated with the moon and are considered symbols of prosperity and good fortune, particularly in folklore where they are linked to wealth and abundance.
Strokes19Radical虫Frequency#61477DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
In Chinese mythology, the three-legged golden toad (金蟾) is a well-known figure, often depicted as a bringer of wealth. This connection enhances the significance of the character 蟾 in terms of prosperity and good fortune in daily life.
Memory Tip
Imagine a warty toad (蟾) sitting under the moonlight. The character 蟾 has the radical for insect (虫) at the bottom, reminding you that it's a creature from nature, while the top part resembles a roof, suggesting it might be hiding in a cozy spot, waiting for the moon to rise.
Meanings of 蟾
chán(chan2)
1toad (1)
2moon
Exercise 1 of 2
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 蟾
蟾Simplified
19Strokes
虫Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
Podcast: 蟾
Podcast: 蟾
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AI Study Notes for 蟾
Quick Contrast
蛙 (wā, frog) — use 蟾 (toad) when referring to the specific amphibian known for its warty skin and cultural symbolism, while 蛙 (frog) refers to a different, typically smoother-skinned amphibian.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a warty toad (蟾) sitting under the moonlight. The character 蟾 has the radical for insect (虫) at the bottom, reminding you that it's a creature from nature, while the top part resembles a roof, suggesting it might be hiding in a cozy spot, waiting for the moon to rise.
Usage Notes
Many learners confuse 蟾 with other amphibian-related characters like 青蛙 (qīngwā), which means 'frog.' 蟾 is more specific to toads and is often used in more literary or cultural contexts. It's usually informal, so while you can use it in conversation, be aware of your audience's familiarity with the term.
HSK Study Tips
Although 蟾 is not part of the HSK vocabulary, it can be connected to other nature-related words. Students should focus on recognizing its unique components and the cultural significance it carries, especially in terms of symbolism related to the moon and wealth.
Cultural Note
In Chinese mythology, the three-legged golden toad (金蟾) is a well-known figure, often depicted as a bringer of wealth. This connection enhances the significance of the character 蟾 in terms of prosperity and good fortune in daily life.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 蟾 with other amphibians like 蛙 (wā) for 'frog,' leading to incorrect usage. Remember, 蟾 is specifically for toads, which have a different appearance and habitat.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 蟾
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Grammar Patterns of 蟾
蟾 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 3 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.
Exercise 1 of 2
Complete the Sentence
这片潮湿地区也吸引了青蛙、____蜍和蝾螈一类的生物。
This wet area also attracts frogs, toads and newts.
Example Sentences for 蟾 (2)
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1
这片潮湿地区也吸引了青蛙、蟾蜍和蝾螈一类的生物。
zhè piàn cháo shī dì qū yě xī yǐn le qīng wā、 、 chán chú hé róng yuán yī lèi de shēng。
This wet area also attracts frogs, toads and newts.
2
他把手伸进淤泥里捞摸，结果抓上来一只巨大的蟾蜍。
tā bǎ shǒu shēn jìn yū ní lǐ lāo mō， ， jié guǒ zhuā shàng lái yī zhī jù dà de chán。
He grabbed into the ooze and came up clutching a large toad.
Cultural Notes for 蟾
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese mythology, the three-legged golden toad (金蟾) is a well-known figure, often depicted as a bringer of wealth. This connection enhances the significance of the character 蟾 in terms of prosperity and good fortune in daily life.
Word Family of 蟾
Words Containing This Character3
蟾蜍toad
蟾chánmoon
蟾宫折桂fig. to succeed in the imperial examination蟾宮折桂
Exercise 1 of 3
Compound Meaning
What does 蟾蜍 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 蟾
It is pronounced as 'chán' with a rising tone.
蟾 refers specifically to toads, while 青蛙 means 'frog.' Toads have warty skin and are usually larger than frogs.
While not commonly used in idioms, it appears in cultural references, particularly those involving wealth.
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