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March 24, 2026
辭cí(ci2)
The character 辭 (cí) primarily means 'words' or 'speech,' often used in contexts involving formal language or eloquent expression. Additionally, it signifies 'to resign' or 'to take leave,' commonly found in professional or official scenarios where someone steps down from a position.
Strokes19Radical辛Frequency#—DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the act of resigning is often accompanied by a formal farewell speech, highlighting respect and gratitude towards colleagues, which is deeply valued in the workplace.
Memory Tip
Imagine a person holding a speech (words) while simultaneously waving goodbye (resigning). The left radical 辶 (walking) suggests movement, hinting at leaving, while the right side 词 (cí) connects to words. Picture someone walking away from a podium.
Meanings of 辭
cí(ci2)
1words, speech; to resign, to take leave
Exercise 1 of 2
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About 辭
辭Simplified
19Strokes
辛Radical
非语素字non-morpheme character (n-m.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
Podcast: 辭
Podcast: 辭
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AI Study Notes for 辭
Quick Contrast
辞 (cí, to resign) vs 说 (shuō, to speak) — choose 辞 when referring to formal or eloquent language, while 说 is more general for any speaking.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a person holding a speech (words) while simultaneously waving goodbye (resigning). The left radical 辶 (walking) suggests movement, hinting at leaving, while the right side 词 (cí) connects to words. Picture someone walking away from a podium.
Usage Notes
Common mistakes include confusing 辭 with similar-sounding words like 词 (cí, meaning 'words' more generally), leading to miscommunication. This character is often used in formal contexts, so be mindful of the register when using it, especially in writing.
HSK Study Tips
While 辭 is not included in the HSK levels, it connects with HSK vocabulary related to communication, such as 语言 (yǔyán, 'language') and 讲话 (jiǎnghuà, 'to speak'). Focus on understanding its usage in both resigning contexts and formal speeches.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the act of resigning is often accompanied by a formal farewell speech, highlighting respect and gratitude towards colleagues, which is deeply valued in the workplace.
Common Mistakes
Learners often mix up 辭 with the character 词, incorrectly using 辭 when they mean 'words' in a general context, such as saying '我喜欢这个辭' instead of '我喜欢这个词' (I like this word).
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 辭
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Cultural Notes for 辭
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, the act of resigning is often accompanied by a formal farewell speech, highlighting respect and gratitude towards colleagues, which is deeply valued in the workplace.
🌏Cross-cultural Insight
In Western cultures, resignations can be more casual and less ritualized, whereas in China, the process often involves formality and a detailed explanation.
