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March 24, 2026
途tú(tu2)
The character 途 (tú) refers to a way, route, or path, often indicating a physical journey or course of travel. It is commonly used in contexts related to navigation, such as discussing roads, travel routes, or metaphorical journeys in life.
Strokes10Radical辶Frequency#10885DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of a journey holds deep significance, often symbolizing personal growth and life paths. The phrase '人生的道路' (rénshēng de dào lù) translates to 'the road of life,' emphasizing the journey we all undertake.
Memory Tip
Imagine a winding path through a lush landscape, where '途' looks like a person walking along a journey. The left side '走' (zǒu) means 'to walk,' reinforcing the idea of a route or path.
Meanings of 途
tú(tu2)
1way
2route
Exercise 1 of 2
Listen & Choose the Meaning
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About 途
途Simplified
10Strokes
辶Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#10885Frequency Rank
Podcast: 途
Podcast: 途
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AI Study Notes for 途
Quick Contrast
道 (dào) refers more to a way or principle, often with philosophical or moral implications, while 途 (tú) specifically denotes a physical route or path.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a winding path through a lush landscape, where '途' looks like a person walking along a journey. The left side '走' (zǒu) means 'to walk,' reinforcing the idea of a route or path.
Usage Notes
Be cautious not to confuse 途 with similar characters like 路 (lù), which also means road but is more general. 途 is often used in more formal contexts, such as in transportation or travel discussions, and is typically paired with words like '旅行' (lǚxíng) meaning 'travel.'
HSK Study Tips
Although 途 is not included in the official HSK vocabulary lists, it connects well with HSK 3 and 4 words related to travel and direction, such as '走' (zǒu) and '路' (lù). Focus on using 途 in sentences that describe journeys or travel plans.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of a journey holds deep significance, often symbolizing personal growth and life paths. The phrase '人生的道路' (rénshēng de dào lù) translates to 'the road of life,' emphasizing the journey we all undertake.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 途 with 路 (lù), leading to incorrect phrases like '我走在路' (wǒ zǒu zài lù) instead of '我走在途上' (wǒ zǒu zài tú shàng) when referring to a journey. Make sure to use 途 when emphasizing a journey or course.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 途
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Grammar Patterns of 途
途 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.
You may be physically and mentally exhausted after a long flight.
Cultural Notes for 途
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, the concept of a journey holds deep significance, often symbolizing personal growth and life paths. The phrase '人生的道路' (rénshēng de dào lù) translates to 'the road of life,' emphasizing the journey we all undertake.
Word Family of 途
Words Containing This Character20
途径tújìngway途徑
前途qiántúprospects
途中túzhōngen route
旅途lǚtújourney
中途zhōngtúmidway
用途yòngtúuse
长途chángtúlong distance長途
途túway
沿途yántúby the wayside
途经via途經
半途而废bàntú’érfèito give up halfway (idiom); leave sth unfinished半途而廢
征途trek
迷途to lose one's way
前途无量to have boundless prospects前途無量
长途跋涉long and difficult trek長途跋涉
歧途fork in a road
长途电话long-distance call長途電話
道听途说gossip道聽途說
误入歧途to go astray誤入歧途
仕途official career (formal)
Exercise 1 of 4
Compound Meaning
What does 途径 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 途
Common phrases that include 途 (tú) are '途径' (tújìng), meaning 'route' or 'approach,' and '行程' (xíngchéng), which refers to 'itinerary' or 'journey.' These phrases can help you express different aspects of travel in Chinese.
途 (tú) can be used in both formal and informal contexts. In formal writing, it might appear in travel or logistical discussions, while in everyday conversation, it can describe routes casually. Understanding its versatility can enhance your Chinese language skills.
途 (tú) means 'way,' 'route,' or 'road' in Chinese. It is often used to describe paths or methods of travel, both literally and figuratively. For example, you might see it in phrases related to journeys or directions.
You can use 途 (tú) in sentences like '这条路是去学校的途' (This road is the way to school). It is typically used to indicate a path or method of reaching a destination, whether it's physical travel or a metaphorical journey.
You might hear it in phrases like '旅行的途中的风景' (the scenery on the journey), highlighting its use in travel contexts.
Yes, 途 can represent metaphorical journeys, such as career paths or life choices.
Yes, for example, '途径' (tújìng) means 'approach' or 'pathway,' often used in more formal discussions.
