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March 24, 2026
赵(趙)zhào(Zhao4)
The character 赵 (zhào) primarily refers to an ancient state in China, known as Zhao, which was one of the seven prominent states during the Warring States Period. It is also a common Chinese surname, representing a significant lineage in Chinese history. In addition, it connects to historical states like Former Zhao and Later Zhao from the Sixteen Kingdoms period.
Strokes9Radical走Frequency#15599DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
The surname 赵 is one of the most common in China, with notable figures in history, including emperors and scholars. Its historical roots tie back to the Warring States period, emphasizing the importance of lineage and heritage in Chinese culture.
Memory Tip
Imagine a grand flag with the name 'Zhao' flying high in the ancient state of Zhao, representing strength and honor. The character 赵 has a '刀' (dāo, knife) inside it, symbolizing the martial prowess of the Zhao state, while the top part resembles a person standing tall, embodying leadership.
Meanings of 赵
zhào(Zhao4)
1ancient state; surname
2one of the seven states during the Warring States Period (476-220 BC)
Exercise 1 of 2
By ear
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About 赵
赵Simplified
趙Traditional
9Strokes
走Radical
人名míngcíproper noun (pr.n.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
Podcast: 赵
Podcast: 赵
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AI Study Notes for 赵
Usage Notes
While 赵 is commonly used as a surname, it is important to use the correct tones when mentioning it in conversation (zhào). Be cautious not to confuse it with similar-sounding names or states, as context is key in distinguishing meaning.
HSK Study Tips
Although 赵 is not part of HSK vocabulary, learners at this level should focus on understanding its historical context and connections to surnames. Exploring other names and their origins can enhance comprehension of Chinese cultural identity.
Common Mistakes
Learners often mispronounce 赵 as 'zhāo' (first tone) instead of 'zhào' (fourth tone), which can change the meaning completely. Always remember to use the correct tone to avoid confusion.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 赵
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How Well Do You Know 赵?
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Learning Lab
Knowing 赵 is seven skills, not one.
Its meaning, its character, its pinyin, its tone — hearing it, saying it, writing it. The Learning Lab measures each one from your own practice, on every word you study, so you see what you actually know rather than how much you have done.
The character 赵 (zhào) primarily refers to an ancient state in China, known as Zhao, which was one of the seven prominent states during the Warring States Period. It is also a common Chinese surname, representing a significant lineage in Chinese history. In addition, it connects to historical states like Former Zhao and Later Zhao from the Sixteen Kingdoms period.
When to use 赵
While 赵 is commonly used as a surname, it is important to use the correct tones when mentioning it in conversation (zhào). Be cautious not to confuse it with similar-sounding names or states, as context is key in distinguishing meaning.
What learners get wrong
Learners often mispronounce 赵 as 'zhāo' (first tone) instead of 'zhào' (fourth tone), which can change the meaning completely. Always remember to use the correct tone to avoid confusion.
Write 赵
赵
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Grammar Patterns of 赵
赵 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 4 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 4
Fill the gap
Type the missing word. Pinyin works; then pick the character.
我是____敏东. 我的秘书说你刚才来过电话.
This is Zhao Mindong. My secretary said you called.
A castellan and Jojoodo come in while a conference is in session.
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Word Family of 赵
Words Containing This Character16
赵zhàosurname Zhao趙
赵本山Zhao Benshan (1958-), universally known PRC TV comedian趙本山
完璧归赵lit. to return the jade annulus to Zhao (idiom); fig. to return something intact to its rightful owner完璧歸趙
赵薇Zhao Wei or Vicky Zhao (1976-), Chinese film star趙薇
赵云Zhao Yun (-229), general of Shu in Romance of the Three Kingdoms趙雲
赵紫阳Zhao Ziyang (1919-2005), PRC reforming politician, general secretary of Chinese Communist Party 1987-1989, held under house arrest from 1989 to his death, and non-person since then趙紫陽
赵国Zhao, one of the seven states during the Warring States Period of Chinese history (475-220 BC)趙國
赵匡胤Zhao Kuangyin, personal name of founding Song emperor Song Taizu 宋太祖 (927-976)趙匡胤
赵括also called Ma Fuzi 馬服子|马服子趙括
赵高Zhao Gao (?-207 BC), one of the most vile, corrupt and powerful eunuchs in Chinese history, responsible for the fall of Qin Dynasty趙高
