Meanings of 言
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 言
Podcast: 言
Podcast: 言
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI Study Notes for 言
A common mistake is to confuse 言 with other similar characters like 语 (yǔ), which specifically means 'language'. It's important to use 言 in contexts that relate directly to speaking or verbal expression. This character is more formal than informal expressions.
Though not categorized under a specific HSK level, 言 is foundational for learners, connecting with words like 说 (shuō - to speak) and 言语 (yányǔ - language). Focus on its usage in compound words to enhance vocabulary.
Learners often confuse 言 with 语 (yǔ), leading to incorrect phrases like '言语' when they mean 'speak'. The correct usage depends on the context: use 言 for words and speech, and 语 for language.
Pronunciation of 言
Drill the tone of 言 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
Etymology of 言
Pictograph of a tongue sticking out of a mouth. In old scripts written the same as 舌 but with an extra line.
A tongue sticking out of a mouth 口
Jason Etymology Detective
Case file: 言
Pictograph of a tongue sticking out of a mouth. In old scripts written the same as 舌 but with an extra line.
- 1The giveawayA tongue sticking out of a mouth 口
- 2On the record asideographic — someone drew an idea rather than an object.
Every clue here comes from the character's recorded structure — nothing is guessed.
Want the full history of 言? Jason searches the paleographic record, weighs the competing accounts and judges the popular story.
Charged once for this character — everyone reads it afterwards.Character Formation Type
What type of character formation is 言?
Decomposition of 言
Identify the Components
Which of these is a component of 言?
How to say words in Chinese
“words” in Chinese is言
The character 言 (yán) refers to 'words' or 'speech'. It is often used in contexts related to communication, expressing thoughts, or conveying information. This character is foundational in many compound words and phrases that involve speaking or language.
When to use 言
A common mistake is to confuse 言 with other similar characters like 语 (yǔ), which specifically means 'language'. It's important to use 言 in contexts that relate directly to speaking or verbal expression. This character is more formal than informal expressions.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 言 with 语 (yǔ), leading to incorrect phrases like '言语' when they mean 'speak'. The correct usage depends on the context: use 言 for words and speech, and 语 for language.
Write 言
New here? to save your writing progress and earn XP.
Practice writing 言 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 言
言 functions as a verb — the action or state of the sentence. The Chinese order is Subject + Verb + Object (我吃饭). Negate it with 不 (habitual / future) or 没(有) (completed action). Add aspect markers like 了, 过, 着 directly after the verb. It carries 5 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.
Complete the Sentence
对于任何一种语____来说，文字的出现都是十分重要的。
For any language, the emergence of a writing system is extremely important.
Common Confusions with 言
Both relate to speech but have different usages.
Spot the Difference
Which character means "words"?
Example Sentences for 言 (16)
Cultural Notes for 言
'言' is often used in Chinese idioms and proverbs, emphasizing the importance of words in communication and relationships. For instance, '言而有信' means 'to speak with integrity'.
Word Family of 言
Compound Meaning
What does 信 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 言
Common phrases that include 言 (yán) are '言论' (yánlùn) meaning 'speech' or 'statement,' and '言传身教' (yán chuán shēn jiào) which means 'to teach by example and words.' These phrases highlight the significance of both spoken and demonstrated teachings.
Jason Recommends
Not sure what to learn after 言?
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.